Category pentane blends

Comparison of UN Numbers, CAS Numbers, and HS Codes for n-Pentane, Isopentane, and Cyclopentane

This article provides a comprehensive comparison of three chemical compounds—n-Pentane, Isopentane, and Cyclopentane—based on their UN numbers, CAS numbers, and Harmonized System (HS) codes. These identifiers are crucial for safety regulations, chemical tracking, and international trade compliance. Understanding their distinctions helps industries manage transportation, storage, and customs procedures effectively.

Comparison Table

Chemical Compound | UN Number | CAS Number | HS Code

n-Pentane | UN 1265 | CAS 109-66-0 | 2901.10.10
Isopentane | UN 1265 | CAS 78-78-4 | 2901.10.90
Cyclopentane | UN 1146 | CAS 287-92-3 | 2902.19.00

Keywords

n-Pentane, Isopentane, Cyclopentane, UN Number, CAS Number, HS Code, Chemical Identification, International Trade, Chemical Safety, Transportation Regulations

This structured comparison allows professionals in chemistry, logistics, and trade to better navigate classification and compliance requirements.

Comparison of UN Numbers, CAS Numbers, and HS Codes for n-Pentane, Isopentane, and Cyclopentane

This article provides a comprehensive comparison of three chemical compounds—n-Pentane, Isopentane, and Cyclopentane—based on their UN numbers, CAS numbers, and Harmonized System (HS) codes. These identifiers are crucial for safety regulations, chemical tracking, and international trade compliance. Understanding their distinctions helps industries manage transportation, storage, and customs procedures effectively.

Comparison Table

Chemical Compound | UN Number | CAS Number | HS Code

n-Pentane | UN 1265 | CAS 109-66-0 | 2901.10.10
Isopentane | UN 1265 | CAS 78-78-4 | 2901.10.90
Cyclopentane | UN 1146 | CAS 287-92-3 | 2902.19.00

Keywords

n-Pentane, Isopentane, Cyclopentane, UN Number, CAS Number, HS Code, Chemical Identification, International Trade, Chemical Safety, Transportation Regulations

This structured comparison allows professionals in chemistry, logistics, and trade to better navigate classification and compliance requirements.

Comparison of UN Numbers, CAS Numbers, and HS Codes for n-Pentane, Isopentane, and Cyclopentane

This article provides a comprehensive comparison of three chemical compounds—n-Pentane, Isopentane, and Cyclopentane—based on their UN numbers, CAS numbers, and Harmonized System (HS) codes. These identifiers are crucial for safety regulations, chemical tracking, and international trade compliance. Understanding their distinctions helps industries manage transportation, storage, and customs procedures effectively.

Comparison Table

Chemical Compound | UN Number | CAS Number | HS Code

n-Pentane | UN 1265 | CAS 109-66-0 | 2901.10.10
Isopentane | UN 1265 | CAS 78-78-4 | 2901.10.90
Cyclopentane | UN 1146 | CAS 287-92-3 | 2902.19.00

Keywords

n-Pentane, Isopentane, Cyclopentane, UN Number, CAS Number, HS Code, Chemical Identification, International Trade, Chemical Safety, Transportation Regulations

This structured comparison allows professionals in chemistry, logistics, and trade to better navigate classification and compliance requirements.

Comparison of UN Numbers, CAS Numbers, and HS Codes for n-Pentane, Isopentane, and Cyclopentane

This article provides a comprehensive comparison of three chemical compounds—n-Pentane, Isopentane, and Cyclopentane—based on their UN numbers, CAS numbers, and Harmonized System (HS) codes. These identifiers are crucial for safety regulations, chemical tracking, and international trade compliance. Understanding their distinctions helps industries manage transportation, storage, and customs procedures effectively.

Comparison Table

Chemical Compound | UN Number | CAS Number | HS Code

n-Pentane | UN 1265 | CAS 109-66-0 | 2901.10.10
Isopentane | UN 1265 | CAS 78-78-4 | 2901.10.90
Cyclopentane | UN 1146 | CAS 287-92-3 | 2902.19.00

Keywords

n-Pentane, Isopentane, Cyclopentane, UN Number, CAS Number, HS Code, Chemical Identification, International Trade, Chemical Safety, Transportation Regulations

This structured comparison allows professionals in chemistry, logistics, and trade to better navigate classification and compliance requirements.

Balancing Performance and Cost: The Role of Cyclopentane/n-Pentane Blends in PU Foam Insulation

Why a 20/80 Cyclopentane/n-Pentane Ratio is Widely Used in the Insulation Industry

In the world of polyurethane (PU) rigid foam insulation, blowing agents play a crucial role in determining foam quality, thermal insulation, and process efficiency. Among the many options available, a blend consisting of 20% Cyclopentane and 80% n-Pentane has emerged as a go-to solution for manufacturers seeking an optimal balance of performance and cost.

Why This Specific Blend?

Each component in the blend brings unique properties to the table:

• Cyclopentane is valued for its low thermal conductivity, allowing foams to achieve excellent insulation performance. It also has zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and relatively low global warming potential (GWP), making it more environmentally friendly. However, it is more expensive and can pose challenges in flowability and evaporation rate during foam processing.

• n-Pentane, on the other hand, is more economical, with higher vapor pressure and better flowability, making it easier to process, especially in large-scale industrial applications. But used alone, it tends to result in larger, less uniform foam cells, which can compromise insulation performance.

By blending 20% Cyclopentane with 80% n-Pentane, manufacturers can harness the strengths of both components: the superior insulation of Cyclopentane and the process efficiency and cost benefits of n-Pentane.

Where Is This Blend Used?

This pentane mixture is widely applied in:

• Household Refrigerators & Freezers: Used in the insulation layer of refrigerator cabinets and doors, ensuring high energy efficiency and consistent thermal performance.

• Construction Insulation Panels: Applied in rigid PU foam boards for building walls and roofs, providing lightweight, effective thermal barriers.

• Cold Chain Logistics: Employed in the insulation of refrigerated trucks and containers, helping maintain low temperatures during transportation.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

While the blend is non-ozone depleting and has lower GWP than legacy blowing agents like CFCs or HCFCs, it is still flammable and must be handled with proper safety protocols. Many modern production lines are equipped with explosion-proof equipment and ventilation systems to safely manage pentane-based formulations.

Conclusion

The 20/80 Cyclopentane/n-Pentane blend is a prime example of how smart chemical engineering can optimize material performance while balancing economic and environmental concerns. As global demand for energy-efficient insulation grows, such formulations will continue to play a key role in sustainable manufacturing.

Market Prospects of n-Pentane in the UAE: Trends, Applications, and Growth Potential

Abstract

The UAE’s industrial sector is experiencing steady growth, driving demand for high-quality n-Pentane, which is widely used as a solvent, blowing agent, and in petrochemical applications. While specific data on the UAE market is limited, global trends indicate a rising demand for n-Pentane and its mixtures. The global market for isopentane and n-Pentane mixtures reached $137 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.3% to $209 million by 2031. The UAE’s market dynamics are influenced by crude oil prices, regional industrial expansion, and import-export activities. As one of the primary n-Pentane suppliers in the UAE, Junyuan Petroleum Group plays a crucial role in meeting the region’s demand for high-quality chemical products. Given the UAE’s role as a trade hub, its demand for n-Pentane is expected to rise in response to increasing industrial applications and economic diversification efforts.

Keywords

n-Pentane, UAE market, Junyuan Petroleum Group, industrial growth, chemical solvents, petrochemical applications, energy sector

Global Market Overview

The demand for n-Pentane and its mixtures has been increasing globally, driven by its extensive use in polyurethane foam production, plastic processing, and as a key component in refining and petrochemical industries. The global market for isopentane and n-Pentane mixtures was valued at approximately $137 million in 2024, with projections reaching $209 million by 2031, at a steady CAGR of 6.3%. The largest markets for these chemicals are China, Europe, and North America, collectively accounting for about 80% of global consumption.

Key Factors Influencing the UAE’s n-Pentane Market

1. Crude Oil Market Trends

As a derivative of petroleum refining, n-Pentane supply and pricing are directly affected by fluctuations in the crude oil market. Recent trends indicate some price volatility in early 2025, though the overall market remains stable. Given the UAE’s position as a major oil-producing nation, domestic supply availability may be linked to refining capacity and production adjustments.

2. Industrial Demand and Applications

The UAE’s expanding industrial sector is creating a steady demand for n-Pentane across multiple industries:

• Polyurethane Foam Production: Used as a blowing agent in insulation and refrigeration industries, n-Pentane aligns with the UAE’s growing construction and energy efficiency initiatives.

• Chemical Solvents: The increasing use of n-Pentane in laboratories, pharmaceutical applications, and industrial cleaning supports market growth.

• Petrochemical and Refining Sector: n-Pentane plays a role in isomerization processes and molecular sieve dehydration, making it a crucial chemical in the UAE’s refining activities.

3. Leading Suppliers in the UAE Market

Junyuan Petroleum Group has emerged as one of the most significant suppliers of n-Pentane in the UAE, ensuring a stable and high-quality supply to various industries. The company’s strong distribution network and commitment to meeting industry standards make it a key player in the market. As demand continues to rise, Junyuan Petroleum Group’s presence in the UAE is expected to strengthen, providing industries with reliable access to essential petrochemical products.

4. Import and Export Considerations

The UAE likely depends on imports to meet local demand for n-Pentane, sourcing from key petrochemical-producing regions, including neighboring Gulf countries. Trade policies, tariffs, and global supply chain fluctuations may impact the availability and pricing of n-Pentane in the UAE market. Additionally, the country’s strategic trade position may facilitate re-exports to Asia and other emerging markets.

Market Outlook and Growth Potential

With the UAE’s continued industrial expansion, focus on sustainable development, and growing demand for high-quality chemical solvents, the n-Pentane market is set to grow. Infrastructure projects, energy efficiency regulations, and advancements in petrochemical production will drive further demand. Junyuan Petroleum Group’s role as a major supplier positions it well to capitalize on this growth, ensuring a stable supply of n-Pentane to key industries. Despite reliance on imports, the UAE’s trade-friendly policies and industrial diversification efforts make it a key regional hub for n-Pentane distribution.

Conclusion

The UAE presents strong growth potential for the n-Pentane market, supported by industrial demand, crude oil market dynamics, and trade connectivity. Junyuan Petroleum Group’s significant presence in the UAE highlights the importance of reliable suppliers in meeting rising demand. While global supply trends influence availability and pricing, the country’s economic expansion and industrial needs will continue to fuel demand. As the market evolves, businesses engaged in n-Pentane production and trade will find promising opportunities in the UAE’s growing industrial landscape.

A Comprehensive Overview of n-Pentane Series and Pentane Blowing Agents

Abstract

This article presents a clear and concise overview of two important product lines: the n-Pentane series (90, 95, and 99 percent purity) and pentane-based blowing agents (F3 through F8). It explores their key applications in foam manufacturing, chemical processes, and other industries, while also highlighting their performance characteristics such as low sulfur content and high Saybolt color index. In addition, this piece emphasizes the products’ environmental benefits and suitability for sustainable development.

Keywords:

n-Pentane, Pentane Blowing Agent, Foam Manufacturing, Chemical Solvent, Sustainable Development, Low Sulfur, High Purity

Introduction

n-Pentane and its related blowing agent formulations are widely used in a range of industrial processes. They play a particularly significant role in foam production, especially for polyurethane (PU), polystyrene (PS), and polyether-based foams. Due to their favorable physical and chemical properties, these pentane products have also found their way into diverse applications such as chemical synthesis, pharmaceutical solvents, refrigerant blends, and laboratory standards.

n-Pentane Series: Grades and Characteristics

The n-Pentane series typically includes three grades: 90% n-Pentane, 95% n-Pentane, and 99% n-Pentane. All three are colorless, low-odor liquids with Saybolt color values of at least 28, indicating a very high degree of purity in terms of visual appearance. Their densities, measured at 20°C, generally range from about 620 to 630 kg/m³.

• Purity Levels:

• 90% n-Pentane contains at least 90% of the n-Pentane isomer.

• 95% n-Pentane raises that content to 95%.

• 99% n-Pentane provides an even higher level of purity, making it suitable for specialized applications such as chemical reagents, calibration standards, and high-end solvent needs.

• Quality Indicators:

• Bromine Index: For all three grades, the bromine index is typically under 100 mgBr/100 g, reflecting minimal levels of unsaturated compounds.

• Water Content: Ranges from below 150 ppm in the 90% and 95% grades to under 100 ppm in the 99% grade, ensuring a low moisture environment for sensitive processes.

• Sulfur Content: Less than 5 ppm across all grades, which is crucial for processes requiring low sulfur to minimize catalyst poisoning and unwanted by-products.

Pentane Blowing Agents: F3 to F8

Besides the pure n-Pentane series, specialized pentane blowing agents are formulated for foam production. These products blend n-Pentane and iso-Pentane in specific ratios, allowing manufacturers to fine-tune their foam properties. Common variants include F3, F4, F5, F6, F7, and F8, each offering distinct proportions of n-Pentane and iso-Pentane.

• n-Pentane Content:

Ranges from about 30±2% in F3 up to 80±2% in F8.

• iso-Pentane Content:

Adjusted accordingly, typically running higher when the n-Pentane portion is lower, and vice versa.

• Density:

Generally falls between 615 and 630 kg/m³ at 20°C, ensuring consistency in handling and blending.

• Bromine Index, Water Content, Sulfur Content:

All remain within strict limits (bromine index ≤100 mgBr/100 g, water ≤150 ppm, sulfur ≤5 ppm), aligning with stringent quality and environmental requirements.

Main Applications

1. Foam Manufacturing:

• Polyurethane (PU) Foams: Pentane is a preferred blowing agent for producing rigid and flexible PU foams, used in insulation, automotive components, and furniture.

• Polystyrene (PS) Foams: Particularly in the construction sector, pentane blends help achieve the desired density and thermal insulation performance.

• Polyether Foams: The balance of n-Pentane and iso-Pentane ensures precise control over foam cell structure and stability.

2. High-Purity 99% n-Pentane Applications:

• Chemical Reagent: Ideal for laboratory research, quality control, and analytical procedures.

• Standard Reference Material: Useful as a calibration solvent or reference compound in chromatography.

• Pharmaceutical Solvent: Provides a clean, low-sulfur solvent environment for sensitive chemical reactions.

• New Refrigerants and Polymerization Processes: Offers an environmentally friendly option in advanced chemical and polymer production.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Modern industry places a strong emphasis on sustainability. The pentane family is known for having low sulfur content and minimal impact on the environment compared to older, less eco-friendly alternatives. However, due to their volatility and flammability, proper handling and storage are essential. Following established safety guidelines and using approved equipment can mitigate potential risks, ensuring a safer workplace and reducing environmental hazards.

Conclusion

n-Pentane products and pentane blowing agents offer versatile, high-performance solutions for a variety of industrial applications. Their consistently high quality—evident in factors such as minimal sulfur content, low moisture levels, and stable density—makes them a top choice for foam production, chemical synthesis, pharmaceutical applications, and beyond. Furthermore, their environmentally friendly profile aligns well with modern sustainability goals, paving the way for continued innovation and market growth.

By carefully selecting the appropriate grade or blowing agent blend, manufacturers can optimize production processes, enhance product performance, and contribute to more sustainable industrial practices. This focus on quality and eco-conscious design underscores the ongoing importance of n-Pentane and pentane-based blowing agents in both current and future applications.

Pentane Blends

Pentane Blends

Custom Blends of Isopentane, Normal Pentane, and Cyclopentane: Advancing Your Chemical Needs

At the forefront of chemical innovation, we specialize in crafting custom blends of Isopentane, Normal Pentane, and Cyclopentane that cater precisely to your unique requirements. Our advanced in-line blending technology and deep industry knowledge set us apart as a reliable partner for all your chemical blending needs.

The Power of Customization

Each of these hydrocarbons—Isopentane, Normal Pentane, and Cyclopentane—brings its own set of properties and benefits to the table. By blending them in precise ratios, we can harness their individual strengths to create a solution that exceeds your expectations. Whether you’re looking to enhance foam production, optimize fuel efficiency, or improve the performance of your manufacturing processes, our custom blends are designed to deliver.

Environmental Responsibility

In today’s world, environmental considerations are paramount. Cyclopentane, in particular, offers a greener alternative to traditional blowing agents like CFCs, reducing your carbon footprint and aligning with sustainable practices. By incorporating Cyclopentane into our custom blends, we help you achieve your production goals while minimizing environmental impact.

Beyond Standard Blends

While we offer a range of pre-defined blend ratios, our capabilities extend far beyond these standard options. Our team of experts will work closely with you to understand your specific requirements and develop a custom blend that perfectly fits your application. Whether you need a blend with a specific boiling point, viscosity, or other physical property, we have the technology and expertise to deliver.

Quality Assurance

At every step of the blending process, we adhere to strict quality control measures to ensure that your custom blend meets the highest standards of purity and consistency. Our in-line blending technology allows for precise control over the mixing process, ensuring that each batch is identical to the last. This level of precision and consistency is crucial for maintaining the performance and reliability of your final product.

Let’s Collaborate

We understand that every application is unique, and that’s why we’re committed to working closely with you to find the perfect solution. Whether you’re a seasoned industry veteran or a newcomer to the world of chemical manufacturing, our team of experts is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to discuss your specific needs and learn more about how our custom blends of Isopentane, Normal Pentane, and Cyclopentane can help advance your chemical requirements.

Package Type

  • Isotank
  • Railcar
  • Truck
  • Vessel

The Boiling Points of n-Pentane and Isopentane: An Analysis Introduction

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.

Blowing Agents

The blowing agent used since EPS Foam was first introduced in 1952 by BASF is Pentane gas which, does not contain any chlorine atoms as CFC’s. PSP Foam in the beginning used CFC’s as blowing agent. In the past two decades CFC’s are gradually phased out from plastics and refrigerator industries.

It is contemplated that various blowing agents may be used in the present invention, including physical blowing agents such as hydrocarbons. The preferred physical blowing agents for this invention are organic chemical compounds that have boiling points less than about 37° C. These organic compounds include, but are not limited to, fully hydrogenated hydrocarbons and partially fluorinated hydrocarbons that are considered to be flammable. Flammable as defined herein generally includes those materials having flashpoints less than about 37.8° C.

Pentane, pentanes, pentane blends, isopentane and normal pentane

The preferred fully hydrogenated hydrocarbon blowing agents include the initial members of the alkane series of hydrocarbons that contain up to five carbon atoms and which are not regulated by governmental agencies as being specifically toxic to human or plant life under normal exposure. These fully hydrogenated blowing agents include methane, ethane, propane, n-butane, isobutane, n-pentane, isopentane and blends thereof.

The most preferred fully hydrogenated hydrocarbon blowing agents are Cto Ccompounds and blends thereof An example of a preferred blend is a blend of approximately 67 weight percent n-butane and approximately 33 weight percent isobutane, which is commonly referred to in the industry as an A21 butane blend. This blend may be added at a rate of from about 1 to about 20 weight percent of the total extruder flow rate, and preferably added at a rate of from about 3 to about 20 weight percent of the total extruder flow rate.

It is contemplated that auxiliary blowing agents may be used in the present invention in amounts less than about 40 weight percent of the total blowing agent. The preferred auxiliary blowing agent are partially fluorinated hydrocarbon blowing agents that have molecules containing up to three carbon atoms without any other halogen atoms, and those considered flammable. For example, this includes 1,1-difluoroethane (HFC-152a), and 1,1,1-trifluoroethane (HFC-143a), with the most preferred auxiliary blowing agent being HFC-152a. It is also contemplated that 1-1-chlorofluoroethane (HFC-142b) and 1-1-dichloro-2-fluoroethane (HFC-141b) may be added as auxiliary blowing agents for non-regulated insulation applications.

In addition, water may optionally be added at a low concentration level as an auxiliary blowing agent. The water quality should be at least adequate for human consumption. Water containing a high level of dissolved ions may cause excessive nucleation, so therefore deionized water is preferred. The preferred rate for water addition is from about 0.05 to about 0.5 parts water to 100 parts of the polymeric composition (0.05 to 0.5 phr). The most preferred rate of adding water is from about 0.2 to about 0.3 phr.

What is EPS

Polystyrene is one of the most widely used kinds of plastic. It is a polymer made from the monomer styrene, a liquid hydrocarbon that is commercially manufactured from petroleum by the chemical industry. Polystyrene is a thermoplastic substance, it melts if heated and becomes solid again when cool.

Polystyrene is most commonly found in three forms. Rigid Polystyrene (PS), Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) and Extruded Polystyrene (XPS).

Rigid polystyrene has many applications including disposable cutlery, cd cases, video/casette casings, components for plastic model toys as well as some margarine and yoghurt containers.  Extruded polystyrene foam has good insulating properties making it important as a non-structural construction material.  XPS is sold under the trademark Styrofoam by Dow Chemical, however this term is often used informally for other foamed polystyrene products.

How to produce foam?

Expandable Polystyrene / EPS:

This is PS Foam that uses Pentane gas (C5H12) as the blowing agent. During the material production process called “Polymerisation” the polystyrene resin granules impregnated with the blowing agent. EPS production processes begin in the pre-expansion process where the EPS bead will expand by the heat of steam usually 50 times in volume. The next step in the process is moulding process where expanded foam bead will be heated again with steam then they expand further until they fuse together, forming as foam products.

There are mainly 2 types of EPS moulding machines;

  • Shape moulding machine that produce various shapes of foam products according to the molds such as icebox, helmet and packaging foam.
  • Block moulding machine that produce block foam and sheet foam Expanded EPS foam bead contains 98% air per volume, only 2% is plastic. This make EPS foam very light weight, has low thermal conductivity because air is the best insulation, high compressive strength and excellent shock absorption. These properties make EPS to be ideal material for packaging and construction.

Polystyrene Paper (PSP):

This is a PS Foam which is produced by extruding process as another plastic. Production process start when put polystyrene resin pellets into the extruder that heated by electric. Foaming process occur at the end of extruder where the blowing agent, butane (C4H10) gas react with the melt plastic then become foam. The melted polystyrene foam is then extended as sheet then rolled as paper roll, that is why it is commonly known as “Polystyrene Paper”. The polystyrene foam sheet or polystyrene paper can be produced as many shape according to the mould by thermal forming process such as food tray, cups, bow, and food box.

Both EPS and PSP contain 95 -98 % air another 2-5% is polystyrene which is pure hydrocarbon. CFC’s is Chlorofluorocarbons which is totally different in its chemical structure from polystyrene. CFC’s has very low blowing point and uneasy to be maintained in EPS beads. Therefore, EPS Foam never use CFC’s at any stage of its production. The blowing agent used since EPS Foam was first introduced in 1952 by BASF  is Pentane gas which, does not contain any chlorine atoms as CFC’s. PSP Foam in the beginning used CFC’s as blowing agent. In the past two decades CFC’s are gradually phased out from plastics and refrigerator industries. PSP moulders in Thailand already use Butane (C4H10) as the blowing agent since the last 15 years. Butane gas is the gas that we use at home for cooking. The blowing agents that use in producing PS Foam are Pentane and Butane, which are pure hydrocarbon as polystyrene. They belong to the same chemical family, the paraffin series as methane, ethane, and propane gas.

How to manage the EPS foam waste

Apart from recycling by melting and compacting, there are many ways to manage the EPS waste as the followings:

  • Crush in to small particle and mix with soil. Foam waste will improve ventilation in the soil, organic substances in the soil will become easier the humus.
  • Mixing the crushed bead with cement to reduce the weight and increase insulation properties.
  • Combustion at 1000 C with sufficient air supplies in to generate heat. Burning EPS require no any additional fuel, in fact EPS can replace the fuel normally required for combustion, l kg of EPS saves 1 kg = 1.2 – 1.4 Litre of fuel oil.

The Recycling of PS:

Since both EPS and PSP Foam are made of Polystyrene, which is thermoplastic, so that it will become again a polystyrene plastic when recycled. AMEPS members recycle both EPS and PSP Foam by first crushing into small particle then melting or compacting it. Melting can be done by heated roller, disk or screw extruders, where the regrind scraps is heated usually by electrical power for some time above the melting temperature. Compacting can be done by rotary compactors where pressure and frictional force create heat below melting temperature to soften the regrind scraps for only few seconds. This method also called “agglomeration”.PS pallet from recycled foam will be produced in various kinds of plastic products e.g. video and tape cassette and ruler. The other way to reuse EPS Foam is to mix the regrind beads with the new expanded bead for re-production in moulding process.

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