[Chemical Knowledge]：Properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods, stable conformation of long-chain n-alkanes

n-paraffin properties

Normal paraffin (n-alkanes) is a kind of organic compounds with relatively stable chemical properties. Their molecular structure consists of a straight hydrocarbon chain, with each carbon atom connected by a single bond. The general molecular formula of n-paraffins is C nH {2n 2}. These compounds have the following significant physical and chemical properties:

1. Melting point and boiling point: As the carbon chain length increases, the melting point and boiling point of n-paraffins show an increasing trend. This is because the increase in molecular weight increases the van der Waals forces between molecules, requiring higher temperatures to break these interactions.

2. Solubility: The solubility of n-paraffins in water is extremely low due to their non-polar nature, which is incompatible with the polar nature of water. They can be well dissolved in organic solvents, such as ether, benzene, etc.

3. Chemical stability: Because only single bonds exist in the molecular structure of n-paraffins, they have high chemical stability. They do not readily react at room temperature, but can undergo radical substitution, addition, or the like at high temperatures or in the presence of a catalyst.

Normal paraffin uses

n-Alkanes are widely used in industry and daily life, and their main uses include but are not limited to the following:

1. Fuel: n-Alkanes are the main components of liquid fuels, such as gasoline and diesel. Short-chain alkanes are typically used in gasoline, while long-chain alkanes are more commonly used in diesel and jet fuel. Their high energy density makes them an ideal fuel source.

2. Solvents: Due to their chemical inertness and low toxicity, n-paraffins are often used as solvents, especially in paints, coatings and cleaners. They can effectively dissolve various organic substances without reacting with them.

3. Chemical raw materials: n-Alkanes are the basic raw materials for the production of many chemicals. For example, important basic chemical raw materials such as ethylene and propylene can be produced by the cracking of alkanes. They are also used in the production of synthetic lubricants and synthetic waxes.

4. Pharmaceuticals and cosmetics: Some high-purity n-paraffins are used in pharmaceutical preparations and cosmetics, mainly as carriers and diluents to ensure the stability and safety of the finished product.

n-paraffin upstream and downstream feedstocks

The production and application of n-paraffins involves a series of upstream and downstream feedstocks and processes.

1. Upstream feedstock: n-paraffins are mainly extracted from oil and natural gas. Through the fractionation process of petroleum, n-paraffins with different carbon numbers can be obtained. High purity n-paraffins can also be produced by the synthesis of natural gas, such as Fischer-Tropsch synthesis.

2. Production process: The main processes for the production of n-paraffins include distillation and cracking. In the petroleum refining process, the petroleum is separated into fractions of different boiling ranges by distillation columns, from which normal paraffins are extracted. The cracking process is used to break down longer chain alkanes into shorter chain alkanes to meet market demand.

3. Downstream products: n-paraffins are further processed and can be converted into various chemicals such as alcohols, acids and esters. They are also used to produce a variety of products such as polymers, detergents and surfactants.

Normal paraffin storage method

The storage of n-paraffins needs to pay attention to the following aspects to ensure its quality and safety:

1. Storage conditions: n-paraffin should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, avoid direct sunlight and high temperature environment. This is to prevent volatilization loss and potential fire risk due to temperature rise.

2. Container selection: n-paraffins should be stored in a corrosion-resistant closed container, such as a steel or aluminum container, to prevent external contaminants from entering and causing chemical reactions. Containers shall be well sealed to avoid leakage.

3. Safety measures: in the storage and transportation of n-paraffin, should take appropriate fire and explosion prevention measures. The storage area shall be equipped with fire extinguishers, explosion proof lamps and electrostatic earthing devices. Personnel should wear protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, to prevent contact and inhalation of vapors.

4. Labeling and Records: Each container shall be clearly labeled with information such as its contents, purity, quantity and date of storage. Detailed storage records should be established to track the source, storage and use of each batch of materials in order to find and deal with any problems in time.

Conclusion

As an important organic compound, n-paraffin plays an indispensable role in modern industry and daily life. Through the detailed analysis of its nature, use, upstream and downstream raw materials and storage methods, we can see its wide application value and potential market prospects. With the progress of technology and the growth of demand, the production and application of n-paraffins will be further developed, providing more high-quality and diversified solutions for all walks of life.