What is the main purpose of adding Mercaptan to natural gas?

The addition of Mercaptan to natural gas serves the critical function of providing an odor for leak detection. Natural gas is colorless and odorless in its natural state, which poses a significant risk in case of leaks, as individuals would be unable to detect gas escaping from pipelines or appliances without a noticeable odor. Mercaptan, which has a strong sulfur-like smell often described as resembling rotten eggs, enables people to quickly identify the presence of natural gas. This is crucial for safety, as it allows immediate action to be taken in the event of a leak, thereby preventing potential hazards such as explosions or asphyxiation. The use of Mercaptan is a standard safety practice in the gas industry to enhance public safety and to ensure quick response actions in case of leaks.