[Chemical Knowledge]：Properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods, hazards and first aid measures of n-hexane

n-Hexane Properties

Hexane is a linear alkane with the chemical formula C6H14. It has colorless, tasteless, volatile liquid properties, liquid at room temperature. The boiling point of n-hexane is about 69°C, the density is 0.655g/cm³, and it has a low viscosity and high volatility. Due to its hydrophobicity and non-polarity, n-hexane has very low solubility in water, but is miscible with most organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, chloroform and acetone. n-Hexane has a low flash point of about -22°C and is highly flammable.

Uses of n-Hexane

N-hexane is widely used in industry and laboratory. The most important use is as an organic solvent, especially in the extraction and separation of natural products, such as vegetable oil extraction, caffeine removal, etc. n-Hexane is also used as a solvent in the rubber and polymer industries for dissolving adhesives and resins. In the laboratory, n-hexane is commonly used as the mobile phase for thin layer chromatography (TLC) and gas chromatography (GC). n-Hexane is also used as a fuel and as an intermediate in chemical reactions.

n-Hexane Upstream Feedstock

The production of n-hexane is mainly dependent on the refining process of oil and natural gas. Its upstream feedstock mainly includes natural gas and petroleum fractions, especially light petroleum fractions (such as naphtha). Through the process of petroleum cracking and distillation, a mixture containing n-hexane can be obtained. After further separation and purification of these mixtures, high purity n-hexane can be obtained. Catalytic reforming and alkylation reactions are also important processes for the production of n-hexane.

n-Hexane Downstream Products

As an important chemical raw material, n-hexane can be further processed to generate a variety of downstream products. For example, in the rubber and polymer industries, n-hexane can be used as a solvent for the production of polyethylene and polypropylene. It can also be used to produce various chemical intermediates, such as adipic acid, hexamethylene diamine, etc. These intermediates have a wide range of applications in the synthesis of nylon, plastics and fibers. n-Hexane can also be used as a component in paints, paints and cleaners.

n-Hexane Storage Methods

Due to the high flammability and volatility of n-hexane, its storage requires special attention to safety. N-hexane should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated special storage facility, away from fire and heat sources. Storage containers shall be sealed with chemical resistant materials such as stainless steel or special plastics. The storage area shall be equipped with fire protection equipment and leakage emergency treatment equipment to prevent fire and leakage accidents. Operators should wear protective equipment such as gloves and goggles to prevent inhalation of n-hexane and skin contact.

Environmental and safety considerations

When using and handling n-hexane, we must pay attention to its potential harm to the environment and human body. Hexane is a volatile organic compound (VOC), which has a certain pollution effect on the atmospheric environment and may lead to the formation of photochemical smog. Hexane also poses a risk of pollution to water and soil, so waste disposal must comply with environmental regulations. For the human body, prolonged exposure to n-hexane vapor may cause symptoms such as nervous system damage, headache, and dizziness. Therefore, the workplace should maintain good ventilation and regularly monitor the concentration of n-hexane in the air.

Market demand and development trend

N-hexane is in stable demand in the global market, and its main applications include chemical production, rubber and polymer manufacturing, and the food industry. With the advancement of industrialization and urbanization, the demand for n-hexane is expected to continue to grow. Especially in emerging economies, the rapid development of chemical and manufacturing industries will further promote the market demand for n-hexane. With the increasingly stringent environmental regulations, new solvents with low volatility and high efficiency may gradually replace some of the applications of n-hexane, which also poses new challenges and opportunities for the n-hexane market.

Conclusion

As an important organic solvent and chemical raw material, n-hexane plays a key role in modern industry and laboratory. Its upstream raw materials are mainly derived from oil and gas, obtained through refining and chemical processing. N-hexane is widely used in many fields, but due to its high flammability and potential environmental hazards, its storage and use require strict compliance with safety and environmental regulations. With the change of market demand and the progress of technology, n-hexane industry is also facing new development opportunities and challenges.