[Chemical Knowledge]：The nature, use, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods, what are the main uses of isomeric hexadecane.

Isomeric cetane properties

Isomeric hexadecane (I-C16) is an alkane with the formula C16H34, containing 16 carbon atoms and 34 hydrogen atoms in its structure. Isomeric hexadecane has a diverse molecular structure with a variety of isomers. These isomers have different physical and chemical properties due to different arrangements and branches of their carbon chains. In general, isomeric hexadecane appears as a colorless transparent liquid with low viscosity, low density and low surface tension. It has a wide boiling range, but usually between 250°C and 300°C. The flash point of isomeric hexadecane is high, usually above 110°C, so that it has high safety at room temperature.

isomeric hexadecane

Isomeric hexadecane is widely used in industry. In the lubricating oil industry, isomeric hexadecane is widely used as a base oil component because of its good low temperature fluidity and oxidation stability. In cosmetics and personal care products, isomeric hexadecane is a synthetic oil with good skin compatibility and lubricity, and is often used in the formulation of lotions, creams and other skin care products. Isomeric hexadecanes are also used as plasticizers and solvents in the fields of coatings, inks and adhesives. Due to its chemical inertness and low toxicity, isomeric hexadecane is also used in food contact materials and medical devices.

Upstream raw materials

The production of isomeric hexadecane is mainly dependent on petroleum cracking and refining processes. The heavy fraction in petroleum undergoes catalytic cracking, hydrotreating and isomerization reactions to obtain a mixture containing a higher proportion of isoparaffins. Specifically, the feedstock mainly includes light naphtha, n-hexadecane and other heavy fractions. The selection of catalyst and the control of reaction conditions are the key factors in the production process, which can affect the yield and quality of isomeric hexadecane. In recent years, with the requirements of environmental protection and sustainable development, the application of bio-based raw materials has gradually attracted attention. The development of biomass liquefaction and waste oil regeneration technology provides a new way for the production of isomeric hexadecane.

Downstream Products

The downstream products of isomeric hexadecane are diverse and cover multiple industries. The most important application area is the lubricating oil industry, where it is used as the main component of base oils in products such as engine oils, gear oils and hydraulic oils. The cosmetics and personal care industry is another important application area where isomeric hexadecane is often used as a synthetic grease and emulsifier. In the coatings and inks industry, the isomeric hexadecane is used as a solvent and diluent to improve the fluidity and coating properties of the product. In the plastics and rubber industry, isomeric hexadecane is used as a plasticizer to improve product flexibility and durability. Isomeric hexadecanes are also used to prepare chemical reagents and pharmaceutical intermediates of high purity.

storage method

Storage of isomeric hexadecane requires attention to its physicochemical properties. Because of its high flash point, it is safer at room temperature, but it is still necessary to avoid exposure to open flames and high temperature environments. Isomeric hexadecane should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight. Storage containers shall be stainless steel or aluminum containers with good sealing to prevent volatilization and leakage. For large-scale storage, underground or above ground storage tanks can be used. The storage tanks need to be equipped with safety valves, level gauges and temperature monitoring devices to ensure safety and stability during storage. Check the storage equipment and environment regularly to ensure that they are in good condition and prevent leakage and pollution.

Environmental Protection and Safety

In terms of environmental protection and safety, isomeric hexadecane, as a low toxicity chemical, is relatively less harmful to the environment and human body. In the process of production, use and storage, it is still necessary to strictly abide by the safety operation procedures to prevent leakage and fire accidents. Discarded isomeric hexadecane and pollutants should be treated in accordance with national and local environmental regulations to avoid pollution of soil and water bodies. In the production process, clean production technology should be adopted as much as possible to reduce the discharge of waste gas, waste water and waste residue, and improve the efficiency of resource utilization. For workers engaged in the production and use of isomeric hexadecane, necessary safety training and health monitoring should be carried out to ensure the safety and health protection of their operations.

Market Prospects

With the increasing demand of industry and consumer goods, the market prospect of isomeric hexadecane is promising. Especially in the lubricant and cosmetics industry, with the increasing demand for high-performance and environmentally friendly products, the application of isomeric hexadecane will be further expanded. With the development of bio-based feedstocks and renewable resources, the production of isomeric hexadecane will be more environmentally friendly and sustainable. Market research and technological innovation are the key to maintain competitive advantage. Enterprises should constantly pay attention to market dynamics and adjust production and sales strategies to adapt to changing market needs. It is expected that in the next few years, the isomeric hexadecane market will maintain steady growth and become an important raw material and additive in many industries.