Abstract

Carbon monoxide, gaseous in normal atmospheric conditions, is colorless, odorless, and highly toxic. Carbon monoxide is a co-product, along with hydrogen, in synthetic gas (syngas) production. Several technologies are used to produce syngas and these are discussed. Gas pipeline is a cost-effective way to manufacture and deliver carbon monoxide to the user. Industrially produced carbon monoxide is used in the chemical industry for the synthesis of several compounds, such as acetic acid, polycarbonates, acetic anhydride, polyketones, etc. The demand for carbon monoxide as a raw material for chemical synthesis is expected to continue. Carbon monoxide is also a by-product of highway vehicle exhaust. Other sources are from industrial emissions and fuel combustion. Hazards associated with carbon monoxide use derive from its toxicity and flammability.