While ethylene (CAS 74-85-1) is most widely recognized for its role in the petrochemical industry, particularly in polyethylene production, it also possesses properties that make it suitable for specialized applications, such as a refrigerant. Known in refrigeration circles as R-1150, ethylene offers unique advantages for certain low-temperature systems.

Ethylene is a simple alkene, a colorless and flammable gas at standard conditions. Its low boiling point of approximately -103.7 °C (-154.7 °F) makes it an effective refrigerant for achieving very low temperatures. This property is a key factor in its consideration for niche refrigeration applications where traditional refrigerants may not perform adequately.

The use of ethylene as a refrigerant is primarily in industrial processes requiring extremely low temperatures, such as cascade refrigeration systems or industrial freezers. Its thermodynamic properties allow for efficient cooling cycles at these low operating points. For businesses in specific sectors, understanding these ethylene gas properties is vital for selecting the most appropriate cooling technology.

However, the significant drawback of using ethylene as a refrigerant is its flammability. Ethylene has a wide flammability range in air (approximately 2.7% to 36%), posing a substantial fire and explosion risk. This inherent hazard necessitates rigorous safety protocols, specialized equipment, and highly trained personnel for its handling and use. Consequently, its application as a refrigerant is limited to situations where these risks can be meticulously managed and where its performance benefits outweigh the safety concerns.

The broader market for ethylene is dominated by its use as a chemical intermediate. The ease with which one can 'buy ethylene online' for industrial synthesis far surpasses the demand for its refrigerant applications. The focus for procurement in the chemical industry often centers on purity for polymerization and chemical reactions, rather than solely on its thermodynamic properties for cooling.

Compared to other refrigerants, ethylene has a zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and a very low Global Warming Potential (GWP), which are increasingly important environmental considerations in refrigeration. However, its flammability and the availability of less hazardous alternatives often make other refrigerants more popular for general applications.

In summary, while not as common as other refrigerants, ethylene (R-1150) serves a valuable purpose in specialized low-temperature industrial refrigeration. Its utility hinges on its excellent cooling capacity at extreme temperatures, balanced against the critical need for stringent safety measures due to its high flammability, a key aspect of its ethylene safety data.