Tag n-Heptane

#Cyclopentane #Isopentane #nPentane #nHexane #nHeptane #SulfidingAgent #Pentane #Hexane #Heptane #MayDay #LabourDay #Logistics #ChemicalIndustry #SupplyChain

As Labour Day holidays vary across countries, timely coordination in logistics becomes essential. For global buyers of hydrocarbons like Pentane, Hexane, Heptane, and sulfiding agents, early planning ensures supply chain continuity during the early May slowdown.

With the global Labour Day (May Day) holidays approaching, it’s crucial for international buyers of chemical raw materials to prepare ahead—especially when sourcing from across regions with varying public holiday schedules.

Our product portfolio covers a wide range of high-purity hydrocarbons, including n-Pentane, Isopentane, Cyclopentane, n-Hexane, n-Heptane, and various sulfiding agents. These materials serve industries from polyurethane insulation, refrigeration, and adhesives to pharmaceuticals, refining, and electronics.

Key Holiday Timelines to Note:

• Russia: May 1–3, with many extending holidays until May 9 (Victory Day)

• Japan: Golden Week, typically May 1–7, with some businesses closed for up to 11 days

• France: May 1 only, strict labor laws prohibit most business activities

• Australia: Varies by state, with Queensland and Northern Territory observing May 6

• UK, Egypt, Pakistan, South Africa, Thailand, and others: May 1 as a national holiday

No May 1 Holidays:

Markets such as South Korea, Israel, the United States, Canada, and the Netherlands operate normally during early May but observe labor-related holidays at other times.

As of April 28, 2025, the domestic price for 99% purity n-Heptane in China remains stable at RMB 15,900 per metric ton, approximately USD 2,170 per metric ton based on the current exchange rate (1 USD ≈ 7.327 RMB).

Following a sharp price adjustment around mid-April, the market has entered a period of stability, with no fluctuations recorded over the past two weeks. For global procurement teams, this price consistency provides a more predictable environment after recent volatility.

The stable trend is largely supported by balanced domestic supply and steady demand from key downstream sectors such as pharmaceuticals, adhesives, and industrial solvents. Buyers worldwide are advised to continue monitoring market conditions closely, as potential shifts in feedstock availability or production rates could impact export offers in the coming months.

With China being a major supplier of high-purity n-Heptane, the current stability offers an opportunity for strategic procurement planning and inventory management for Q2 2025.

n-Heptane, 99% Purity, Global Procurement, Market Price, Price Stability, China Exports, Solvent Market, April 2025, USD Price, RMB Price

This analysis focuses on the price trend of 99% pure n-Heptane in the Central China region from April 14 to April 25, 2025. The data reveals a significant price change within this period.

On April 14, the price of 99% n-Heptane was relatively high in the Central China market. However, the price began to decline soon after, marking a noticeable and continuous downward trend. By April 25, the price stabilized at RMB 15,200/ton (~USD 2,080/ton), with no further changes on that day, showing a price fluctuation of 0.00%.

For purchasers, this price trend highlights several key points to consider. First, whether this downward trend is temporary or indicative of a long-term market shift is crucial. If the decline is only a short-term adjustment, prices may stabilize or even increase later. In this case, excessive stockpiling at the current low prices could lead to higher costs if prices rebound. On the other hand, if the price drop is due to fundamental industry changes, such as increased raw material supply or heightened market competition, buyers could take advantage of this opportunity to increase their purchasing volume within reasonable limits to lower their average procurement costs.

The supply side dynamics are also essential for purchasers to monitor closely. If new n-Heptane production facilities are launched or existing companies expand production, market supply could significantly increase. If demand remains stable or grows slowly, prices may continue to face downward pressure. Conversely, if production plants shut down or face maintenance issues, leading to reduced supply, prices could stabilize or rebound. Therefore, purchasers should stay informed about supply-side changes through communication with suppliers and industry news.

Additionally, the availability of substitutes should not be overlooked. In the chemical raw materials market, multiple alternatives with similar functions often exist. If the price of n-Heptane continues to fall, its relative cost-effectiveness may change. If comparable substitutes with better pricing emerge, purchasers may need to reassess their procurement strategies or even consider adjusting product formulas to incorporate these substitutes and reduce costs.

Industry policies and the development of upstream and downstream industries also influence n-Heptane prices. For instance, stricter environmental regulations could limit the production of n-Heptane, impacting both supply and prices. Similarly, changes in the demand from n-Heptane’s downstream industries will directly reflect on its price. Purchasers should stay attuned to industry policies and the trends in upstream and downstream industries to make more informed purchasing decisions in a complex market environment.

In summary, the price of 99% n-Heptane in Central China decreased in April 2025 and stabilized by the end of the month. In future procurement activities, buyers should carefully consider factors such as the su

This analysis focuses on the price trend of 99% pure n-Heptane in the Central China region from April 14 to April 25, 2025. The data reveals a significant price change within this period.

On April 14, the price of 99% n-Heptane was relatively high in the Central China market. However, the price began to decline soon after, marking a noticeable and continuous downward trend. By April 25, the price stabilized at RMB 15,200/ton (~USD 2,080/ton), with no further changes on that day, showing a price fluctuation of 0.00%.

For purchasers, this price trend highlights several key points to consider. First, whether this downward trend is temporary or indicative of a long-term market shift is crucial. If the decline is only a short-term adjustment, prices may stabilize or even increase later. In this case, excessive stockpiling at the current low prices could lead to higher costs if prices rebound. On the other hand, if the price drop is due to fundamental industry changes, such as increased raw material supply or heightened market competition, buyers could take advantage of this opportunity to increase their purchasing volume within reasonable limits to lower their average procurement costs.

The supply side dynamics are also essential for purchasers to monitor closely. If new n-Heptane production facilities are launched or existing companies expand production, market supply could significantly increase. If demand remains stable or grows slowly, prices may continue to face downward pressure. Conversely, if production plants shut down or face maintenance issues, leading to reduced supply, prices could stabilize or rebound. Therefore, purchasers should stay informed about supply-side changes through communication with suppliers and industry news.

Additionally, the availability of substitutes should not be overlooked. In the chemical raw materials market, multiple alternatives with similar functions often exist. If the price of n-Heptane continues to fall, its relative cost-effectiveness may change. If comparable substitutes with better pricing emerge, purchasers may need to reassess their procurement strategies or even consider adjusting product formulas to incorporate these substitutes and reduce costs.

Industry policies and the development of upstream and downstream industries also influence n-Heptane prices. For instance, stricter environmental regulations could limit the production of n-Heptane, impacting both supply and prices. Similarly, changes in the demand from n-Heptane’s downstream industries will directly reflect on its price. Purchasers should stay attuned to industry policies and the trends in upstream and downstream industries to make more informed purchasing decisions in a complex market environment.

In summary, the price of 99% n-Heptane in Central China decreased in April 2025 and stabilized by the end of the month. In future procurement activities, buyers should carefully consider factors such as the su

Abstract

n-Pentane, n-Hexane, and n-Heptane are straight-chain alkanes with similar chemical and physical properties. They are widely used in various industries, including solvents, fuel additives, and chemical synthesis. This article explores their shared characteristics, major industrial applications, and how their usage differs across countries. While n-Pentane is commonly used as a blowing agent and refrigerant, n-Hexane is widely employed in oil extraction and rubber production, though its use in food processing is increasingly restricted due to health concerns. Meanwhile, n-Heptane serves as an important reference material for octane rating in fuels and is also utilized in the coatings and laboratory industries. Understanding these hydrocarbons’ roles in different global markets highlights their industrial significance and regulatory variations.

Keywords:

n-Pentane, n-Hexane, n-Heptane, alkanes, solvents, fuel additives, chemical industry, industrial applications

Introduction

Hydrocarbons play a vital role in various industrial sectors, and among them, straight-chain alkanes such as n-Pentane, n-Hexane, and n-Heptane are particularly significant. These three alkanes share many similarities in their chemical and physical properties, yet they serve distinct purposes in different industries. This article examines their characteristics, common applications, and how their usage varies globally.

Common Characteristics of n-Pentane, n-Hexane, and n-Heptane

These three alkanes exhibit several shared properties:

1. Stable Chemical Nature – As saturated hydrocarbons, they are relatively unreactive but highly flammable.

2. Similar Physical Properties – All are colorless, volatile liquids with a characteristic odor. Their boiling points increase with molecular size:

• n-Pentane: 36°C

• n-Hexane: 69°C

• n-Heptane: 98°C

3. Good Solvent Properties – They dissolve well in organic solvents but are insoluble in water, making them useful as industrial solvents.

4. Highly Flammable – Their vapors can form explosive mixtures with air, necessitating careful handling and storage.

Industrial Applications and Global Usage

1. n-Pentane (C₅H₁₂)

• Primary Uses: Solvent, blowing agent, and fuel component.

• In China: Extensively used in polyurethane foam production, especially for refrigerator insulation and construction materials.

• In the United States: Used as a laboratory solvent and as a gasoline blending component to improve combustion properties.

• In the European Union: Applied as a refrigerant and in aerosol propellants, replacing ozone-depleting substances.

• In Japan: Utilized as a cleaning solvent and in cooling systems.

• In Developing Countries: Sometimes used as a fuel substitute due to its flammability.

2. n-Hexane (C₆H₁₄)

• Primary Uses: Oil extraction, rubber manufacturing, and industrial cleaning agent.

• In China: Widely used for edible oil extraction (soybean, peanut, and rapeseed oils).

• In the United States: Mainly used in pharmaceutical manufacturing, printing inks, and adhesives. However, its use in food processing is restricted due to potential health risks.

• In the European Union: Applied in rubber manufacturing and as an industrial cleaning agent, though its use in food processing is increasingly regulated.

• In Japan: Commonly used as a cleaning agent in electronics manufacturing.

• Global Trends: Many countries are limiting its application in food-related industries due to health concerns.

3. n-Heptane (C₇H₁₆)

• Primary Uses: Solvent, fuel reference material, and coatings industry.

• In China: Used as a standard reference for gasoline octane rating and as a solvent in coatings.

• In the United States: Plays a key role in aviation fuel testing and is used in industrial cleaning applications.

• In the European Union: Commonly found in paint thinners, laboratory solvents, and fuel research.

• In Japan: Applied in rubber and coatings industries and as a chemical solvent in laboratories.

• In Research & Development: High-purity n-Heptane is frequently used in scientific studies, particularly in fuel and chemical analysis.

Conclusion

Despite their structural similarities, n-Pentane, n-Hexane, and n-Heptane have distinct applications based on their physical properties and industry requirements. While n-Pentane is primarily used as a blowing agent and refrigerant, n-Hexane is a common solvent in oil extraction and industrial cleaning, though its use in food applications is decreasing due to safety regulations. n-Heptane, on the other hand, serves as a fuel standard and solvent in coatings and laboratory applications. Different countries regulate and utilize these hydrocarbons based on industrial demand and environmental policies, highlighting the evolving nature of their applications worldwide.

Understanding the roles of these alkanes in various sectors helps industries optimize their usage while considering safety and environmental impacts.

n-Heptane is a pure form of heptane, a common solvent and fuel component. It has a special role in measuring the octane rating of gasoline and in separating chiral compounds.

Heptane is a simple organic compound with the chemical formula C$_7$H$_{16}$. It is a colorless liquid that smells like gasoline and is highly flammable. Heptane is widely used as a solvent in laboratories and industries, as it can dissolve many non-polar substances. It is also a component of gasoline, as it can be easily refined from crude oil.

However, not all heptane molecules are the same. There are different ways to arrange the seven carbon atoms and the 16 hydrogen atoms in a heptane molecule, resulting in different shapes and properties. These different forms of heptane are called isomers, and there are nine of them in total.

One of the isomers of heptane is n-heptane, which stands for normal heptane. This is the simplest and most symmetrical form of heptane, where the seven carbon atoms are arranged in a straight chain. n-Heptane has some unique characteristics that make it important for chemistry.

First, n-heptane is the standard for measuring the octane rating of gasoline. The octane rating is a measure of how well a fuel can resist knocking, which is a phenomenon where the fuel ignites too early in the engine, causing damage and reducing efficiency. n-Heptane is very prone to knocking, as it burns very quickly and explosively. Therefore, it is assigned a octane rating of zero, meaning the worst possible fuel for an engine. On the other hand, iso-octane, another isomer of octane (C$_8$H$_{18}$), is very resistant to knocking, as it burns more slowly and smoothly. Therefore, it is assigned a octane rating of 100, meaning the best possible fuel for an engine. Other fuels are compared to these two extremes, and their octane rating is calculated as the percentage of iso-octane in a mixture with n-heptane that has the same knocking behavior. For example, a gasoline with an octane rating of 87 means that it behaves like a mixture of 87% iso-octane and 13% n-heptane.

Second, n-heptane is useful for separating chiral compounds. Chiral compounds are molecules that have two forms that are mirror images of each other, like your left and right hands. These forms are called enantiomers, and they can have different effects on living organisms. For example, one enantiomer of a drug may be beneficial, while the other may be harmful. Therefore, it is important to be able to separate and identify the enantiomers of a chiral compound. One way to do this is by using a chiral column, which is a tube filled with a material that can distinguish between the enantiomers. The chiral compound is dissolved in a solvent, such as n-heptane, and passed through the column. The enantiomers will interact differently with the material, and will come out of the column at different times. This is called chromatography, and it is a widely used technique for separating and analyzing mixtures.

n-Heptane is a good solvent for chiral chromatography, as it is non-polar and does not interfere with the interactions between the enantiomers and the material. However, n-heptane alone is not enough to separate the enantiomers, as it may not have enough eluting power, which is the ability to push the compounds through the column. Therefore, n-heptane is often mixed with other solvents, such as ethanol or isopropanol, which have more eluting power and can affect the selectivity and resolution of the separation. The choice of the solvent mixture is a key step in chiral analysis, and it depends on the properties of the chiral compound and the column material.

In summary, n-heptane is a pure form of heptane, a common solvent and fuel component. It has a special role in measuring the octane rating of gasoline and in separating chiral compounds. n-Heptane is an example of how a simple molecule can have important applications in chemistry and beyond.

Abstract: Class 3 dangerous goods solvents, such as n-pentane, cyclopentane, n-hexane and n-heptane, are flammable liquids that pose a risk of fire and explosion during transport. China customs has issued new regulations that require these solvents to use steel drums with a tare weight of at least 19 kg, in order to ensure the safety and quality of the packaging. This article explains the rationale behind this requirement, and the implications for shippers and importers of class 3 dangerous goods solvents in China.

Keywords: China customs, class 3 dangerous goods, solvents, steel drums, tare weight

Article:

Class 3 dangerous goods solvents are liquids that have a flash point of not more than 60.5°C, or liquids that are transported or offered for transport at temperatures at or above their flash point[^1^][3]. Flash point is the lowest temperature at which a liquid can form a flammable mixture with air. Some examples of class 3 dangerous goods solvents are n-pentane, cyclopentane, n-hexane and n-heptane, which are widely used in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and manufacturing industries.

These solvents are hazardous because they can easily ignite and cause fire and explosion when exposed to heat, sparks, or flames. Therefore, they need to be transported in suitable packaging that can prevent leakage, withstand pressure, and resist impact. According to the international dangerous goods regulations for sea and air transport, the packaging of class 3 dangerous goods solvents must have a UN specification marking that indicates the material, type, category, capacity, test pressure, and year of manufacture of the packaging[^1^][3].

However, China customs has imposed additional requirements for the packaging of class 3 dangerous goods solvents that are imported or exported into and out of China. On 10 January 2021, the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China (GACC) issued Announcement No. 129 on Questions Regarding the Inspection on Imported and Exported Hazardous Chemicals and their Packaging[^2^][1]. This announcement specifies that class 3 dangerous goods solvents, such as n-pentane, cyclopentane, n-hexane and n-heptane, must use steel drums with a tare weight of at least 19 kg[^2^][1]. Tare weight is the weight of an empty container or vehicle.

The reason for this requirement is to ensure the safety and quality of the packaging of class 3 dangerous goods solvents. Steel drums are more durable and resistant than other types of packaging, such as plastic drums or jerricans, and can better protect the solvents from external factors, such as temperature, humidity, and sunlight. Moreover, steel drums with a tare weight of at least 19 kg have a higher wall thickness and a lower risk of deformation or damage during transport[^2^][1]. This can prevent the leakage or spillage of the solvents, which could cause environmental pollution, health hazards, or fire accidents.

The implication of this requirement is that shippers and importers of class 3 dangerous goods solvents in China need to comply with the new customs regulations and use the appropriate packaging for their solvents. Otherwise, they may face delays, fines, or rejection of their shipments by the customs authority. Shippers and importers also need to provide data on the hazardous chemicals and their packaging, such as declarations of conformity, inspection and identification reports, and UN specification markings, to the customs authority for verification[^2^][1].

In conclusion, China customs has issued new regulations that require class 3 dangerous goods solvents, such as n-pentane, cyclopentane, n-hexane and n-heptane, to use steel drums with a tare weight of at least 19 kg, in order to ensure the safety and quality of the packaging. This requirement is based on the rationale of preventing fire and explosion hazards, and protecting the environment and human health. Shippers and importers of class 3 dangerous goods solvents in China need to follow the new regulations and use the suitable packaging for their solvents, as well as provide the necessary data and documents to the customs authority.

n-Heptane is a chemical compound with the formula C7H16, consisting of a chain of seven carbon atoms and 16 hydrogen atoms. It is a colorless, flammable liquid that belongs to the group of alkanes, which are the simplest and most common type of hydrocarbons. N-Heptane is widely used as a solvent in various industries, such as paints, coatings, adhesives, pharmaceuticals, and oil extraction. It is also used as a reference fuel to measure the octane rating of gasoline, as it has the lowest octane number of zero. This means that n-heptane burns more easily and causes engine knocking, which is a problem for gasoline engines. Therefore, gasoline is blended with other hydrocarbons that have higher octane numbers to prevent knocking and improve engine performance.

N-Heptane is mainly produced from the refining of crude oil, which is a complex mixture of different hydrocarbons. N-Heptane can be separated from crude oil by a process called fractional distillation, which involves heating the crude oil and collecting the different fractions that boil at different temperatures. N-Heptane is one of the components of the light naphtha fraction, which boils between 30°C and 200°C. N-Heptane can also be synthesized from other hydrocarbons, such as ethylene, propylene, and butane, by a process called oligomerization, which involves combining smaller molecules into larger ones.

The supply and demand of n-heptane are influenced by various factors, such as the price and availability of crude oil, the demand from downstream industries, the environmental regulations, and the geopolitical situations. The price of n-heptane is closely linked to the price of crude oil, as it is one of the main raw materials for its production. The price of crude oil is determined by the balance between the global supply and demand, as well as the market expectations and speculations. The supply of crude oil depends on the production capacity and output of the major oil-producing countries, such as Saudi Arabia, Russia, and the United States. The demand for crude oil depends on the economic growth and energy consumption of the major oil-consuming countries, such as China, India, and the European Union. The price of crude oil can also be affected by unexpected events, such as natural disasters, wars, and sanctions, that disrupt the normal production and transportation of oil.

The demand for n-heptane is driven by the demand from the downstream industries that use it as a solvent or a fuel additive. The demand for n-heptane can vary depending on the season, the region, and the industry. For example, the demand for n-heptane as a solvent for paints and coatings can increase in the summer, when the construction and renovation activities are more active. The demand for n-heptane as a solvent for oil extraction can increase in the winter, when the viscosity of the crude oil is higher and needs to be reduced for easier pumping. The demand for n-heptane can also differ across regions, depending on the local preferences and regulations for gasoline quality. For example, some countries, such as China and India, have stricter standards for gasoline octane rating, which require more n-heptane to be blended with gasoline to lower its octane number and reduce its emissions.

The supply and demand of n-heptane can also be influenced by the environmental regulations and policies that aim to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions and improve the air quality. These regulations and policies can affect the production and consumption of n-heptane in different ways. For example, some regulations, such as the Clean Air Act in the United States, can limit the amount of n-heptane that can be used as a solvent or a fuel additive, as it contributes to the formation of ozone and smog, which are harmful to human health and the environment. On the other hand, some policies, such as the Renewable Fuel Standard in the United States, can encourage the use of n-heptane as a solvent or a fuel additive, as it can help to increase the blending of biofuels, such as ethanol and biodiesel, with gasoline and diesel, which are more environmentally friendly.

The challenge of n-heptane supply is to balance the supply and demand of this important chemical compound in a volatile and uncertain market. The producers and consumers of n-heptane need to monitor the market trends and dynamics, and adjust their production and procurement strategies accordingly. The producers of n-heptane need to optimize their production capacity and output, and diversify their sources of raw materials and markets. The consumers of n-heptane need to secure their supply contracts and inventories, and explore alternative solvents and fuels. The governments and regulators need to provide clear and consistent policies and regulations, and foster cooperation and coordination among the stakeholders. The researchers and innovators need to develop new and improved technologies and processes, and discover new and better applications and uses of n-heptane.