Tag eco-friendly chemicals

Cyclopentane as a physical blowing agent forming closed-cell bubbles in polyurethane foam production

Cyclopentane as a Blowing Agent: FAQ and Applications

Introduction
Cyclopentane is an eco-friendly chemical widely used as a physical blowing agent in modern foam production. With the global shift towards environmental sustainability, cyclopentane is replacing traditional CFCs and HCFCs in insulation and refrigeration foams.


FAQ: Cyclopentane and Blowing Agents

1️⃣ What is Cyclopentane?
Cyclopentane is a five-carbon cyclic hydrocarbon, non-toxic, colorless, and environmentally friendly. In foam production, it serves as a liquid physical blowing agent.

2️⃣ How does Cyclopentane act as a blowing agent?

  • Cyclopentane vaporizes during foam formation, creating uniform bubbles in the polymer matrix.
  • These bubbles form a closed-cell structure, providing lightweight and excellent thermal insulation.
  • Unlike chemical blowing agents, cyclopentane does not rely on chemical reactions to produce gas.
  • It is environmentally safe, with negligible ozone depletion potential and low global warming potential.

3️⃣ Applications of Cyclopentane in Foam Production

  • Building Insulation: Sandwich panels, roof insulation, pipe insulation.
  • Refrigeration: Foam layers in refrigerators, freezers, and air conditioners.
  • High-End Packaging: Thermal packaging and cold chain foam materials.

4️⃣ Why choose Cyclopentane?

  • Eco-friendly and safe, replacing CFCs/HCFCs.
  • High thermal insulation performance.
  • Suitable for multiple industries.
  • Easy to handle as a liquid, vaporizes naturally during foam formation.

5️⃣ How to use Cyclopentane in foam production?

  1. Add liquid cyclopentane to polyurethane or XPS foam systems.
  2. During foam reaction, cyclopentane vaporizes and forms bubbles.
  3. After curing, bubbles are sealed inside the foam, providing lightweight insulation.

Conclusion
Cyclopentane is a high-performance, eco-friendly physical blowing agent essential for modern insulation, refrigeration, and packaging foams. Its ability to form closed-cell foam structures ensures lightweight materials with superior thermal insulation.

A wooden pallet holding three metal chemical drums labeled n-Pentane (CAS 109-66-0), Isopentane (CAS 78-78-4), and Cyclopentane (CAS 287-92-3). Each drum features clear product labeling and hazard symbols, representing high-purity Pentane isomers used in foam, refrigerant, and solvent applications. Industrial background with clean lighting and a professional laboratory setting.

High-Purity Pentane Isomers for Global Industrial Applications

n-Pentane | Isopentane | Cyclopentane

In today’s global chemical market, Pentane isomers play a vital role across industries ranging from polyurethane foam insulation to refrigeration systems and chemical extraction processes. High-quality Pentane products—particularly n-Pentane (CAS 109-66-0), Isopentane (CAS 78-78-4), and Cyclopentane (CAS 287-92-3)—are essential raw materials for manufacturers seeking efficiency, purity, and environmental compliance.

1. Overview of Pentane Isomers

Pentane is a family of hydrocarbons (C₅H₁₂) consisting of three structural isomers:

  • n-Pentane — a straight-chain hydrocarbon known for its strong solvent power and consistent evaporation rate.
  • Isopentane (2-Methylbutane) — a branched isomer offering a lower boiling point, ideal for refrigerant and foam-blowing applications.
  • Cyclopentane — a cyclic hydrocarbon with excellent insulation performance and zero ozone-depleting potential (ODP).

All three are clear, colorless liquids with low toxicity, high volatility, and compatibility with a wide range of industrial materials.

2. Technical Comparison

Propertyn-PentaneIsopentane (2-Methylbutane)Cyclopentane
CAS No.109-66-078-78-4287-92-3
Chemical FormulaC₅H₁₂C₅H₁₂C₅H₁₀
Boiling Point (°C)36.127.849.3
Density (20°C, g/cm³)0.6260.6200.746
Flash Point (°C)-49-51-37
ApplicationsSolvent, extraction, blowing agentFoam blowing, refrigerant blendInsulation foaming agent

These distinct properties make each isomer suited for specific applications, ensuring performance consistency and compliance with global environmental standards.

3. Industrial Applications

  • Refrigeration & Insulation Foams:
    Cyclopentane and Isopentane are widely used as eco-friendly blowing agents in polyurethane (PU) and polyisocyanurate (PIR) foam production. They offer high insulation efficiency with low global warming potential (GWP).
  • Solvent Extraction:
    n-Pentane serves as a clean, fast-evaporating solvent in the pharmaceutical, adhesive, and oil extraction sectors.
  • Chemical Blends:
    Blended Pentanes (n-/Isopentane or Cyclo/Isopentane) are tailored for optimized foam density, flow, and expansion performance.

4. Quality & Packaging

High-purity Pentane products (95%–99%) are available in ISO tanks, drums, and bulk deliveries, ensuring safe transportation and global supply reliability. Each batch is tested for purity, moisture, and color to meet international quality standards.

5. Sustainability & Global Reach

As environmental regulations tighten worldwide, the transition to non-CFC, non-HCFC blowing agents has accelerated. Cyclopentane and Isopentane are now preferred alternatives for manufacturers seeking greener, high-performance materials. With stable supply capability and flexible logistics, reliable Pentane suppliers help global partners maintain consistent production and cost efficiency.

For manufacturers and distributors seeking high-purity Pentane isomers that meet international standards, reliability and consistency are key. Whether you require n-Pentane for solvent extraction, Isopentane for refrigerant formulations, or Cyclopentane for eco-friendly foam production, sourcing from trusted global suppliers ensures performance and safety.

Learn more about sustainable blowing agents and global chemical standards from ChemEurope — a leading resource for chemical industry insights. Partner with reliable Pentane producers today to secure stable supply, technical support, and long-term value in your production chain.