Archives January 2024

PU soft foam is a kind of soft polyurethane foam plastic with certain elasticity, which is the most widely used polyurethane product³. PU soft foam has an open-cell structure, which has good breathability, moisture absorption and cushioning properties, and is widely used in furniture, mattresses, car seats, clothing, shoes and other fields.

N-pentane foaming is a physical foaming method, which uses n-pentane as a blowing agent, and mixes it with polyurethane raw materials and injects it into a mold. After heating, n-pentane gasifies and forms pores¹. The advantages of n-pentane foaming are that it does not damage the ozone layer, does not produce toxic gases, does not affect the recycling of polyurethane, and can reduce the cost and density, and improve the thermal insulation performance¹.

In the board industry, there are mainly two processes of PU soft foam and n-pentane foaming: one is the continuous foaming method, that is, the polyurethane raw material and n-pentane blowing agent are mixed and sprayed on the continuously moving bottom plate through a nozzle, and then heated by a heating oven to make it foam and solidify, and finally cover the top plate and cut into the required board². This method is suitable for producing large quantities of foam boards, with the characteristics of high efficiency, energy saving and space saving². The other is the one-step molding method, that is, the polyurethane raw material and n-pentane blowing agent are mixed and injected into a pre-made mold, and then heated to make it foam and solidify, and demolded to obtain the required board². This method is suitable for producing foam boards of various shapes and specifications, with the characteristics of flexibility, diversity and precision².

I hope this information is helpful to you. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.

n-Pentane and isopentane are two isomers of pentane, a hydrocarbon with five carbon atoms and 12 hydrogen atoms. They have the same molecular formula, C5H12, but different structures. n-Pentane has a straight chain of five carbon atoms, while isopentane has a branched chain with four carbon atoms in a row and one carbon atom attached to the second carbon atom. The difference in structure affects their physical properties, such as boiling point. The boiling point of a substance is the temperature at which it changes from liquid to gas. In this report, we will compare the boiling points of n-pentane and isopentane and explain the factors that determine them.

Results and Discussion

The data shows that the boiling point of n-pentane is higher than that of isopentane. According to the web search results, the boiling point of n-pentane is 36.1°C, while the boiling point of isopentane is 27.9°C. This means that n-pentane requires more energy to vaporize than isopentane. The reason for this difference is the intermolecular forces between the molecules. Intermolecular forces are the attractions between molecules that hold them together in a liquid or a solid. The stronger the intermolecular forces, the higher the boiling point.

The main type of intermolecular force in n-pentane and isopentane is the van der Waals force, which is a weak attraction between the temporary dipoles of the molecules. A dipole is a separation of positive and negative charges in a molecule. A temporary dipole is a dipole that forms when the electrons in a molecule are unevenly distributed at a certain moment. The temporary dipole of one molecule can induce a temporary dipole in another molecule, creating a van der Waals force between them.

The strength of the van der Waals force depends on the size and shape of the molecules. The larger and more elongated the molecule, the stronger the van der Waals force. This is because a larger and more elongated molecule has more surface area for the temporary dipoles to interact. n-Pentane has a larger and more elongated molecule than isopentane, as shown in the figure below.

![n-pentane and isopentane structures]

Therefore, n-pentane has stronger van der Waals forces than isopentane, and thus a higher boiling point.

Conclusion and Recommendations

In conclusion, we have analyzed the boiling points of n-pentane and isopentane and found that n-pentane has a higher boiling point than isopentane due to the stronger van der Waals forces between its molecules. This analysis demonstrates the importance of molecular structure in determining the physical properties of substances. We recommend that you use this knowledge to understand the behavior of other hydrocarbons and their isomers.

# Polyurethane Foaming Technology Polyurethane (PU) is a versatile material with excellent properties, widely used in various industries such as automotive, household appliances, construction, electronics, footwear, packaging, helmets, sports equipment, and more. Polyurethane foaming agent is the most important additive in PU foam plastics, which directly affects the physical and mechanical properties, foam density, temperature resistance, and other aspects of PU foam. The foaming agents used to produce PU foam are usually divided into two types: chemical foaming agents and physical foaming agents. ## Chemical foaming agents Chemical foaming agents are gases produced by chemical reactions (water and isocyanate react to release CO₂) that make polyurethane foam. Examples are water, formic acid, higher organic acids (carboxylic acids), etc. ## Physical foaming agents Physical foaming agents are vaporized by the heat generated by the polyurethane polymerization reaction, making polyurethane foam. ## The evolution of foaming agents The first generation of foaming agents: low-boiling hydrocarbon compounds, mainly CFC-11, CFC-12, etc. In recent years, it has been found that these compounds are the culprit of destroying the earth’s ozone layer. After the fluorochlorocarbons enter the stratosphere, they are exposed to intense ultraviolet rays and release chlorine atoms, which cause the ozone layer to break and form ozone holes, endangering the survival of humans and other organisms. They were completely banned in 2010. The second generation of foaming agents: HCFCs (HCFC-141b difluorodichloroethane), with ideal thermal conductivity values, do not require major changes in production processes, and are widely used. However, they have high prices, and to achieve the same insulation effect as CFC-11, the foam density needs to be increased by about 10%; HCFCs have ODP values (ozone depletion potential), which still cause damage to the ozone layer. They are only a transitional foaming agent and will be gradually restricted to banned. The third generation of foaming agents: They are green foaming agents with performance close to CFC-11 and ODP (ozone depletion potential) of zero, such as HFCs, liquid CO₂, pentane series, etc. The pentane series includes cyclopentane, isopentane, and n-pentane (C5H12), which have an ODP (ozone depletion potential) value of zero, a low GWP (global warming potential) value, low toxicity, and little impact on the environment. At present, developed countries have fully applied the third-generation foaming agents. The domestic polyurethane industry started late, and small and medium-sized manufacturers of PU polyurethane composite panels are still using the second generation. Baoye Group’s Italian fully automatic composite panel production line in the Economic Development Zone of Deyang City, Sichuan Province uses the third-generation n-pentane series from Junyuan Petroleum Group, which is green and environmentally friendly, and contributes more to the realization of the country’s “carbon peak and carbon neutrality” dual carbon goals. ## N-pentane polyurethane foaming technology ### The characteristics of n-pentane Appearance and properties: colorless transparent liquid, with a faint aromatic odor. Melting point (℃): -129.8 Relative density (water=1): 0.63 Boiling point (℃): 36.1 Relative vapor density (air=1): 2.48 Critical temperature (℃): 196.4 Critical pressure (MPa): 3.37 Flash point (℃): -40 Explosion upper limit (%): 7.8 Ignition temperature (℃): 260 Explosion lower limit (%): 1.5 It is mainly used in the continuous production line of polyurethane panels, as polystyrene foaming and polyurethane foaming. ### The requirements of n-pentane for equipment 1. Because n-pentane is flammable, explosive, and volatile, it has special requirements for pumps and pipelines. For users with large production volume, it is recommended to use underground storage tanks. 2. During the production process, to prevent n-pentane leakage, ventilation should be paid attention to at all times, and n-pentane leakage sensors should be installed in the main positions. 3. The metering device should be installed in a separate ventilated room and equipped with a n-pentane leakage sensor. The pre-pressure and high-pressure of the pump should be equipped with detection devices. 4. The equipment should meet the requirements of producing high flame retardant (PIR) double-track of more than 30 meters. ### The advantages of n-pentane foaming technology 1. Compared with cyclopentane, n-pentane has better foam size stability. After the panel is formed, the shrinkage of the panel in the thickness and width directions is smaller than that of cyclopentane foam. 2. N-pentane foaming products have higher compressive strength in the thickness direction than cyclopentane and HCFC-141b foaming products. The compressive strength of PIRI can reach 182kPa. 3. Under almost the same foam core density, the feed density of the n-pentane foaming formula is lower. This means that the feed amount is reduced, the foam cost has a downward trend, and the compressive strength of the foam can reach the same or higher level. 4. Because HCFC-141b is highly polar and hydrophilic, n-pentane is weakly polar and oleophilic, and isocyanate is also oleophilic, n-pentane has better solubility with isocyanate, and the emulsification effect is better during high-pressure mixing in production. Therefore, the hard foam after n-pentane foaming has uniform and finer pores. 5. After a certain formula adjustment, the flame retardant performance of the n-pentane foaming product can reach or exceed the HCFC-141b foaming product. 6. The thermal insulation performance of the polyurethane rigid foam made by using n-pentane as a foaming agent can meet the thermal insulation performance requirements of cold storage panels. Foaming agents are related to the molding and insulation of polyurethane foam, which affects the product quality; they are also related to human protection of the atmosphere and the impact on climate change.

Pentane and other hydrocarbons, such as n-hexane, isohexane, n-heptane, n-butane and isobutane, are widely used in various industries, such as insulation, refrigeration, solvents, and plastics. If you are looking for reliable and high-quality suppliers of these products, here are some tips to help you make the best decision in 2024.

• Know your needs: Different applications may require different types of pentane and other hydrocarbons. For example, cyclopentane is the most suitable blowing agent for polyurethane and polyisocyanurate foams, as it offers excellent and durable insulation performance. n-pentane and iso-pentane are more stable and can produce firmer and finer polyurethane foams. They can also be used as refrigerants, solvents, and process media for polyethylene and polypropylene. n-hexane, isohexane, n-heptane, n-butane and isobutane have similar properties and can be used interchangeably in some applications, such as extraction, cleaning, and degreasing. However, they may have different environmental and health impacts, so you should check the regulations and safety standards in your region before purchasing.
• Compare prices and quality: The prices of pentane and other hydrocarbons are influenced by various factors, such as the supply and demand of crude oil and natural gas, the availability of pentane isomers, and the environmental regulations in different regions. You should compare the prices and quality of different suppliers and look for the best value for your money. You can also consider mixing pentane and other hydrocarbons with other chemical components, such as fluorinated olefins, to optimize costs and performance.
• Choose a reputable supplier: Pentane and other hydrocarbons are flammable and volatile substances that require careful handling and storage. You should choose a supplier that has a good reputation, a long history, and a strong commitment to science and technology and environmental protection. You should also check the supplier’s certifications, quality control, delivery service, and customer support. One of the leading chemical manufacturers, suppliers and distributors of pentane and other hydrocarbons in China and abroad is Junyuan Petroleum Group, which offers a wide range of products and services to meet your needs.

The prices of pentane and other hydrocarbons, such as n-hexane, isohexane, n-heptane, n-butane and isobutane, remained unchanged on January 4, 2024, according to Junyuan Petroleum Group. Pentane is a saturated hydrocarbon that has five carbon atoms and can exist in three isomers: n-pentane, isopentane and cyclopentane. Pentane is mainly used as a blowing agent for insulation materials, such as polyurethane and polystyrene foams. Pentane can also be used as a refrigerant, a solvent, a working medium in geothermal plants, and a process medium in the production of polyethylene and polypropylene. Pentane has a high performance and no measurable ozone depletion potential. The prices of pentane and other hydrocarbons are influenced by various factors, such as the supply and demand of crude oil and natural gas, the availability of pentane isomers, and the environmental regulations in different regions. Junyuan Petroleum Group is a leading chemical manufacturer, supplier and distributor of pentane and other hydrocarbons in China and abroad. The company is committed to science and technology and environmental protection industries.

Recently, the reporter learned from the Junyuan Petroleum Group that its loading and unloading center has achieved drum packaging of isohexane products after years of renovation and upgrading, improving the safety and quality of the products. It is understood that isohexane is a colorless and odorless volatile liquid, mainly used as a solvent, extractant and fuel additive. The conventional packaging method of isohexane is to use plastic drums or IBC ton barrels, but these packaging containers have disadvantages such as easy damage, leakage, and moisture absorption, affecting the quality and transportation efficiency of the products. To solve this problem, the Group Company’s loading and unloading center introduced advanced isohexane drum packaging equipment, using standard iron drums with a net weight of 132 kg per drum, which have the advantages of high temperature resistance, pressure resistance, corrosion resistance, and good sealing, which can effectively protect the quality and safety of isohexane. At the same time, the loading and unloading center also achieved pipeline connection from the storage tank area to the loading and unloading center, realizing seamless delivery of isohexane, reducing manual operation and pollution risk. According to reports, isohexane drum packaged products can be directly loaded into containers from the factory for sea or land transportation, improving logistics efficiency and transportation costs. A 20-foot container can hold 80 drums, and a 40-foot container can hold 160 drums, respectively holding 10.56 tons and 21.12 tons. At present, the company’s isohexane drum packaged products have been exported to many countries and regions in Europe, America, Asia, etc., and have been well received by customers. The Group Company said that isohexane drum packaging is an important measure for the company to continuously innovate and improve product quality, and also a concrete action for the company to respond to the national green development and environmental protection, and will make positive contributions to the company’s development and social progress.

The global n-Heptane prices have surged recently due to various factors, such as:

• The increase in crude oil prices, which is the main feedstock for n-Heptane production. Crude oil prices have risen due to OPEC+ production cuts and geopolitical tensions¹².
• The strong demand from the paints and coatings industry, which uses n-Heptane as a solvent and a thinner. The paints and coatings industry has grown due to the recovery of the automotive and construction sectors after the pandemic³⁴.
• The limited supply of n-Heptane in some regions, such as Europe, where the production capacity is low and the imports are restricted by trade barriers and logistics issues³.

These factors have created a tight market situation for n-Heptane, leading to higher prices and margins for the producers and suppliers. However, the prices may vary depending on the region, the quality, and the availability of n-Heptane.

Choosing between n-Pentane, Isopentane and Cyclopenane depends on the intended use. Here are some general differences between them:

• Pentane is a colorless, volatile liquid, mainly used for chemical experiments, solvent and solvent mixture preparation, and also an important raw material in the petroleum industry.
• When buying pentane, you should pay attention to the following aspects:
  • Purity: The higher the purity of pentane, the better its performance and quality, but the higher the price. According to different uses, you can choose different purity grades, such as AR, CP, GCS, GR, HPLC, agricultural residue grade, etc.
  • Packaging: Pentane is a flammable liquid and should be packed and stored in suitable sealed containers to prevent leakage and fire. Generally speaking, the packaging specifications of pentane are 200L steel drums and ISO tank containers.
  • Price: The price of pentane is affected by many factors such as market supply and demand, raw material cost, transportation cost, etc., generally ranging from hundreds of USD to thousands of USD. When buying, you should compare the quotations of different manufacturers and channels, and choose products with high cost performance.
  • Manufacturer: There are many manufacturers of pentane, and there are great differences in production scale, technology level, product quality, etc. You should fully understand the qualifications, reputation, after-sales service, etc. of the manufacturers when buying. You can choose regular, professional and reliable manufacturers through the Internet, industry associations, peer recommendations, etc.

On December 28, 2023, Junyuan Petroleum Group successfully completed the four-day second “Junyuan Cup” Employee Vocational Skills Competition at its headquarters in Dongying. The purpose of this competition is to showcase and improve the professional skills and comprehensive quality of Junyuan Petroleum Group’s employees, stimulate their innovation awareness and work enthusiasm, and promote the technical progress and talent cultivation of Junyuan Petroleum Group.

This competition set up eight competition projects, covering the main business areas of Junyuan Petroleum Group, including petrochemical production, petrochemical sales, petrochemical research and development, petrochemical safety, petrochemical quality, petrochemical logistics, petrochemical maintenance and petrochemical management. Nearly 300 employees from various branches and departments of Junyuan Petroleum Group participated in the competition. After fierce preliminary, semi-final and final rounds, 24 gold medalists, 48 silver medalists and 72 bronze medalists were finally produced, as well as eight outstanding teams and eight outstanding instructors.

The judges of this competition were composed of senior managers, technical experts and industry authorities of Junyuan Petroleum Group. They scored and evaluated the contestants from multiple aspects such as theoretical knowledge, practical operation, innovation ability, team cooperation, and adaptability. The organizers of this competition also made full use of modern information technology, through live broadcast, video playback, interactive voting and other ways, to let more employees and the public pay attention to and participate in this competition, enhancing the influence and credibility of this competition.

Mr. Qi, General Manager of Junyuan Petroleum Group, delivered a passionate speech at the closing ceremony of this competition. He highly affirmed and praised the success of this competition, expressed sincere thanks and respect to all the contestants, judges, organizers and supporters, and warmly congratulated and commended all the winners. He pointed out that this competition is an important measure for Junyuan Petroleum Group to implement the talent-strong enterprise strategy, an effective way for Junyuan Petroleum Group to build a learning organization and create an innovative enterprise, and a good platform for Junyuan Petroleum Group to show its style and establish its industry image. He hoped that all employees would take this competition as an opportunity to continuously learn new knowledge, master new skills, and improve new levels, and make greater contributions to the development of Junyuan Petroleum Group and the progress of society.

Junyuan Petroleum Group is a comprehensive enterprise integrating petrochemical production, sales, research and development, and service. It has multiple production bases and sales networks at home and abroad. Its products cover various fields of petrochemical industry and are widely used in construction, automobile, home appliances, medical, agriculture and other industries, and are trusted and praised by customers. Junyuan Petroleum Group always adheres to the business philosophy of talent-oriented, technology-first, quality-based, and innovation-driven, and is committed to becoming a leader and pioneer in the petrochemical industry.

n-Pentane is a colorless, flammable liquid with a petroleum-like odor. It is one of the three isomers of pentane, an alkane with five carbon atoms. N-Pentane has a boiling point of about 36°C and a flash point of about -49°C1. It is insoluble in water and soluble in ethanol, acetone, and organic solvents.
n-Pentane is widely used as a solvent in various industries, such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, paints, adhesives, and rubber. It is also used as a fuel additive to improve the octane rating of gasoline. n-Pentane has a low density, low viscosity, and high volatility, which make it ideal for extracting and purifying natural products.

The UAE is a high-income developing market economy with a diverse and dynamic non-oil sector. The UAE is the top U.S. export market in the Middle East and Africa region and a global hub for trade, logistics, tourism, and digital services. The UAE has a strong demand for n-pentane and other solvents, especially in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, which are expected to grow rapidly in the coming years.
n-Pentane is a high-quality and cost-effective solvent that can meet the needs of the UAE market. It offers advantages over other solvents, such as low toxicity, high purity, and environmental friendliness. n-Pentane is also compatible with the UAE’s vision of sustainability and innovation, as it can be used to produce clean energy and green products.

If you are interested in learning more about n-Pentane and its applications, please contact us at email or visit our website at 

Junyuanpetroleumgroup.com. We are a leading manufacturer of n-Pentane and other specialty chemicals and solvents in China and distributor in the UAE and the region. We offer competitive prices, fast delivery, and excellent customer service. We look forward to hearing from you soon.