What safety additive is commonly used to help detect gas leaks in propane?

Mercaptan is the commonly used safety additive in propane to help detect gas leaks. Natural gas is odorless, making it difficult to detect leaks just through smell. To mitigate the risk associated with this property, mercaptan, which has a strong sulfur-like odor, is added to propane and other natural gas products. This distinctive smell acts as an effective warning sign, prompting individuals to take immediate action when a leak occurs.

The inclusion of mercaptan ensures that even small concentrations of gas can be easily noticed, allowing for a quick response to potentially hazardous situations. This safety measure is critical in residential, commercial, and industrial applications to prevent accidents and injuries related to gas leaks.