Propane and Ethane Use

The following protocol is required for bottles/canisters of propane or ethane gas used at SSRL for the purpose of flash-cooling samples. The use of prefrozen samples containing propane or ethane does not require any special protocol.

• The "Caution Flammable Gas" sign must be posted at the work area prior to usage.  Only small bottles/canisters are allowed at SSRL (lecture bottles).  The propane/ethane bottle shall be set up for dispensing in a clear open space. 
• No electrical appliances or ignition sources, such as a wax melter, microscope, etc. are allowed to be in this area.
• The amount of liquid propane/ethane dispensed for flash cooling should not exceed 10 mL. 
• After dispensing the gas, ensure the bottle valve is firmly closed and that the bottle is secured to the table.
• Empty gas bottles shall be returned to the experimenter's home institution.