[Chemical Knowledge]：The nature, use, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods of isooctane, what is the harm of isooctane to human body

Isooctane Properties

Isooctane (Isooctane), the chemical name is 2,2, 4-trimethylpentane, is a colorless transparent liquid with low volatility and low toxicity. Its chemical formula is C8H18 and its molecular weight is 114.23. The boiling point of isooctane is around 99.3°C and the melting point is -107.4°C. Because of its symmetrical molecular structure, isooctane has a lower explosion limit, a flash point of -12°C, and is not easy to spontaneously ignite at normal temperature and pressure. Isooctane is chemically stable and less prone to oxidation, which makes it safe and reliable in many applications.

Isooctane uses

Isooctane has a wide range of industrial uses, the most important application is in the fuel field. It is one of the main components of gasoline and is often used to reconcile high-octane gasoline. Isooctane is defined as the standard substance of 100 octane number, which is used to evaluate and compare the antiknock performance of different gasoline. Isooctane is also used in laboratories as a solvent and standard substance, especially in analytical chemistry and environmental science. It can also be used in certain organic synthesis reactions as a reaction medium or reagent.

Upstream raw materials

The production of isooctane mainly relies on cracking and reforming reactions in petrochemical processes. Its upstream raw materials mainly include petroleum pyrolysis gas, refinery gas and some low molecular weight alkanes. For example, n-hexane, n-heptane and other low molecular weight alkanes can be converted to isooctane by an isomerization reaction. In the actual production process, the yield and quality of C8 alkanes are often improved by catalytic reforming and isomerization. The selection of catalysts and the optimization of process conditions are also key factors affecting the efficiency and cost of isooctane production.

Downstream Products

Isooctane is an important chemical raw material, and its downstream products are mainly concentrated in the field of fuels and solvents. High octane gasoline is the main downstream product of isooctane, which is widely used in various automobile engines. Isooctane can also be further processed into other high-value chemical products, such as isooctanol, isooctanoate, etc., which have important applications in coatings, plastics and lubricants. High-purity versions of isooctane are also used as standard substances and solvents in laboratory and industrial analysis, especially in gas chromatography analysis.

Isooctane storage method

The storage of isooctane requires attention to its low flash point and flammability. Therefore, the storage place should be away from fire and high temperature areas. Generally, isooctane should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated dedicated storage tank. The storage tank material should have good corrosion resistance, such as stainless steel or aluminum storage tanks. In order to prevent leakage and evaporation loss, the storage tank should be well sealed and equipped with necessary pressure relief devices. The storage area shall be equipped with fire fighting facilities and appropriate fire fighting equipment, such as foam fire extinguishers or dry powder fire extinguishers. Operators should wear protective equipment when handling and transferring isooctane to avoid direct contact and inhalation of its vapors.

Safety and environmental issues

Although isooctane is relatively low in toxicity, it is still necessary to pay attention to safety and environmental protection issues during its production, storage and use. Isooctane vapor has a certain stimulating effect on the human body, and long-term exposure may cause headaches, dizziness and other symptoms. Therefore, appropriate personal protective measures should be taken when handling isooctane, such as wearing protective gloves and goggles, and operating in a well-ventilated environment. Leakage and spillage of isooctane may cause pollution to the environment, especially to water bodies and soil. Therefore, it is necessary to establish a sound emergency response plan to ensure that the possible accidents can be dealt with quickly and effectively.

Conclusion

As an important chemical raw material and fuel additive, isooctane has been widely used in modern industry. Its excellent physical and chemical properties and wide range of uses make it a key material in gasoline blending and organic synthesis. Strict safety and environmental regulations need to be observed during production, storage and use to ensure its efficient and safe functioning. By optimizing the production process and improving the storage management, it can further improve the utilization rate and economic benefits of isooctane, and provide strong support for the development of related industries.