Product Description
n-Hexane is a straight-chain alkane hydrocarbon consisting of six carbon atoms and fourteen hydrogen atoms. It exists as a colorless, highly flammable liquid with a gasoline-like odor. n-Hexane is produced from the refining of crude oil and is primarily used as a solvent in various industrial applications.
The primary application of n-Hexane is as a solvent in the extraction and purification of oils, fats, and waxes from plant materials and seeds. It is widely used in the food processing industry for the extraction of vegetable oils, such as soybean oil, sunflower oil, and canola oil.
In addition to its role as a solvent in food processing, n-Hexane is used in the production of adhesives, coatings, and inks. It serves as a fast-evaporating solvent in these applications, facilitating the dispersion and application of resins, polymers, and pigments.
Furthermore, n-Hexane is utilized in laboratory settings as a cleaning agent and solvent for chromatography and analytical techniques. It is also employed in the manufacture of rubber cement, shoe glue, and other industrial adhesives.
Due to its flammable nature and potential health hazards, including neurological effects with prolonged exposure, n-Hexane should be handled with caution. Proper ventilation, appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and goggles, and safe handling practices should be observed to minimize risks associated with its use. Storage and disposal should comply with regulatory guidelines to ensure safety and environmental protection.
Versatile Industrial ApplicationsN-Hexane is crucial across many industries thanks to its excellent solvency properties. It is extensively employed in extraction processes, such as retrieving edible oils from seeds, and as a cleaning agent in manufacturing and laboratories. The solvent's ability to dissolve adhesives and pharmaceuticals makes it indispensable for various quality-sensitive environments. As an organic compound, N-Hexane provides reliable performance where high-purity, fast-evaporating solvents are required.
Safety and Storage PrecautionsDue to its highly flammable vapor and toxicity, strict handling precautions are essential when using N-Hexane. Store in tightly sealed containers away from heat, sparks, and open flames in well-ventilated areas. Protective equipment should be worn to avoid inhalation and contact. Follow regulatory guidelines for safe transportation (UN 1208, ADR/RID Class 3), and ensure compliance with all hazard statements to minimize risk during usage and storage.
FAQ's of N HEXANE:
Q: How should N-Hexane be safely stored and handled?
A: N-Hexane must be stored in tightly closed containers, such as iron drums or ISO tanks, kept away from heat, sparks, and open flames. Proper ventilation and usage of personal protective equipment are necessary when handling it due to its high flammability and toxicity.
Q: What are the main industrial applications of N-Hexane?
A: N-Hexane is used as a solvent in the extraction of edible oils, in cleaners for degreasing, as a component in adhesives, and in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Its fast evaporation and high purity make it ideal for laboratory and quality-critical processes.
Q: When is N-Hexane preferred over other solvents?
A: N-Hexane is chosen when a non-polar, fast-evaporating solvent is required-for instance, in applications like oil extraction or residue-free cleaning, where water-insolubility and high volatility are beneficial.
Q: Where is N-Hexane supplied from and how is it packed for transport?
A: N-Hexane is supplied by traders and manufacturers in India, typically packed in iron drums, IBCs, or ISO tanks per customer requirement. It is transported under UN Number 1208 and classified as ADR/RID Class 3 due to its flammability.
Q: What is the process for using N-Hexane in oil extraction?
A: In oil extraction, N-Hexane is used to dissolve oils from seeds or plant materials. The mixture is then filtered, and N-Hexane is evaporated from the oil by applying heat, leaving behind pure extracted oil for further use.
Q: What benefits does N-Hexane offer in laboratory and industrial settings?
A: N-Hexane provides excellent solvency for hydrophobic substances, rapid evaporation, and compatibility with a range of materials, making it highly efficient for extraction, cleaning, and analytical applications.