Carbon monoxide is a monocomponent gas consisting solely of carbon monoxide (CO) molecules. It is colourless, odourless and highly toxic. CO is slightly lighter than air and is highly flammable, which is why special care must be taken when handling it. The gas forms explosive mixtures with air and can cause life-threatening exposure even at low concentrations. The presence of carbon monoxide does not give any sensory warning, so its use requires constant monitoring and effective ventilation.

Chemical symbol for carbon monoxide: CO
Carbon monoxide UN number: 1016
Valve: DIN 477 No. 1 RPV
Density of carbon monoxide: 1,14 kg/m³
Relative density of carbon monoxide: 0,97 (air = 1)
Boiling point at 0,101 MPa: -191,5 °C

Chemical industry
Carbon monoxide is used in industry because of its high chemical reactivity. It is an important starting material in the chemical industry, for example in the production of methanol and acetic acid.

Synthesis gases and the energy industry
Carbon monoxide is a key component of the synthesis gas (CO + H₂) used in the production of liquid fuels in the Fischer-Tropsch process.

Metallurgy and reduction
In metallurgy, carbon monoxide is used as a reducing agent, in particular for the conversion of iron ore into metal in blast furnaces.

Available grades:
Extra Pure Carbon Monoxide N37

Packaging:
Carbon monoxide is available in gas cylinders.

Gases behave differently depending on their quality and state. Always consult the product’s safety data sheet before using the product. A safety data sheet is a document that conveys information about the properties, risks and safe use of a substance or mixture for industrial or professional use.

Risk of fire and explosion
Carbon monoxide is a highly flammable gas which forms a highly flammable and explosive mixture with air. A small amount of ignition energy, such as static electricity or a hot surface, can ignite the gas. A pressurised gas may ignite when discharged without an external source of ignition.
A CO fire is always extinguished by shutting off the flow of gas into the fire bag. Other methods of extinguishing are dangerous, as the leaking gas may re-ignite and the resulting gas cloud may create an explosion hazard. To prevent the fire from spreading, cool the area around the burning area with water if this can be done safely.

Toxicity
Carbon monoxide is a highly toxic gas. It binds to haemoglobin more effectively than oxygen, preventing oxygen from entering the body and can quickly lead to respiratory failure, loss of consciousness or death. Symptoms of poisoning include headache, dizziness, nausea and confusion.

First aid
The person suffering from oxygen deficiency should be immediately moved to fresh air. If the victim is having difficulty breathing or is not breathing, administer artificial respiration as quickly as possible and call for help. When rescuing a victim, it is important to remember not to enter an oxygen-deprived area without breathing equipment.

Use
– When handling the substance, follow the instructions and safe working practices.
– The gas handler must be properly trained
– Use only carefully checked pressure regulators and other operating equipment suitable for this gas. If in doubt, contact Woikoske.
– The valve is opened and closed by hand. The use of auxiliary equipment is prohibited!
– It takes about one turn to open the cylinder.
– The cylinder in use must be properly secured.
– Keep the valve outlets clean! (especially from oil and grease)
– Close the cylinder valve after each use and when the cylinder is empty.
– Always report damaged valves and cylinders to Woikoske
– No smoking or open fires during use

Transport
– The driver must be aware of the potential dangers of the load and know his duties in the event of accidents and incidents.
– Bottles must be transported in an upright position wherever possible
– The load must be secured
– The protective cap on the bottle valve must ALWAYS be in place during transport or even minor handling
– Bottles must not be knocked, thrown or dropped from the truck platform
– Attention ADR regulations during transport

Storage
– Observe all legal and local requirements for the storage of cylinders
– Store cylinders in a well ventilated area
– Cylinders should not be stored in conditions that promote corrosion
– Cylinders are stored upright and secured so that they cannot fall over
– Valve caps of gas cylinders shall be in place during storage
– Empty and full cylinders should be kept separate