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What is n-Heptane?
CP Chem n-Heptane
Chevron Phillips Chemical is a leading manufacturer of high-purity hydrocarbons and reference fuels, including 99% n-heptane and n-heptane primary reference fuel. n-Heptane is a linear aliphatic hydrocarbon widely used as a reference fuel component and precision solvent across coatings, adhesives, extraction, and analytical testing. With a narrow boiling range, low polarity, and fast evaporation, high-purity n-heptane supports consistent performance in various industrial and laboratory environments.Overview of n-Heptane
n-Heptane, also called normal heptane (CAS No. 142-82-5), is a saturated alkane with seven carbon atoms arranged in a straight chain. It typically appears as a clear, colorless liquid with a mild odor. Because of its low boiling point (approximately 98–99 °C) and high volatility, n-heptane evaporates fast relative to most other hydrocarbons and many oxygenated solvents. It is used as a primary reference component for octane ratings and a popular choice when a low-aromatic, nonpolar solvent is needed. Its nonpolar nature allows it to readily dissolve other nonpolar compounds, including resins, oils, waxes, and hydrophobic organics.Chemical and Physical Properties
| n-Heptane 99 Pure | |
|---|---|
| Molecular formula: | C7H16 |
| Molecular weight: | 100.2 g/mol |
| Structure: | Linear alkane (CH3–(CH2)5–CH3) |
| Chemical class: | Hydrocarbon, paraffin |
| Solubility: | Negligible in water; miscible with many hydrocarbons (hexane, toluene), ethers, and chlorinated solvents |
| Boiling point: | ~208–210 °F |
| Flash point (closed cup): | ~24–30 °F |
| Autoignition temperature: | ~399–419 °F |
| Viscosity (20 °C): | ~0.38–0.45 mPa·s |
| Vapor density (air = 1): | ~3.5 (heavier than air) |
Industrial and Laboratory Applications
n-Heptane's low polarity, rapid evaporation, and high purity profile can be leveraged in many industrial and laboratory applications. It is frequently selected when minimal residue and low odor are important, and when a consistent volatility range is critical for process control. n-Heptane is also valuable in controlled crystallizations and sensitive extractions where solvency and evaporation rate must be reproducible from batch to batch.Common Industrial Applications
Coatings and Adhesives
n-Heptane is used as a solvent for rubber cements, pressure-sensitive adhesives, and coating systems that require nonpolar diluents.
Extraction and Purification
Industries, such as API manufacturing and herbal medicine production, use n-heptane for extracting oils, waxes, hydrophobic actives, and for crystallization or recrystallization steps.
Cleaning and Degreasing
In cleaning applications, n-heptane helps remove nonpolar contaminants, light oils, and wax residues from parts and process equipment.
Fuel Research and Standards
n-Heptane is a primary reference fuel for octane rating (n-heptane is assigned an octane number of zero), engine test blends, and calibration of knock testing equipment.
Rubber and Elastomers
n-Heptane is a process solvent for rubber compounding and is used for swelling studies in quality control.
Electronics and Precision Parts
n-Heptane is used as a final rinse solvent or displacement drying where nonpolar characteristics and low residue are required.
Laboratory and Analytical Uses
Chromatography
n-Heptane is a mobile phase component or nonpolar wash solvent in normal-phase separations, solvent strength benchmarking, and cleanup between runs.
Reference and Calibration
n-Heptane is a standard for GC retention time indexing and a reference solvent for UV/Vis background scans and density and refractive index checks.
Sample Preparation
n-Heptane is widely used as a diluent for nonpolar analytes, for preparing standard solutions, and for matrix adjustments.
Safety Considerations
n-Heptane presents significant flammability and vapor hazards. When working with n-Heptane, implement engineering controls, proper PPE, and safe work practices. Always consult the product SDS for detailed guidance.Trusted Supplier of n-Heptane
Chevron Phillips Chemical is a global supplier of hydrocarbons, including n-Heptane Pure, a 99% n-heptane designed for applications that demand consistent purity and performance. Manufactured in the United States under robust quality systems, n-Heptane Pure delivers a tightly controlled composition and narrow boiling range that supports reproducibility in coatings, adhesives, extraction, crystallization, and analytical workflows. n-Heptane Pure is offered in sample bottles, drums, and bulk formats to fit testing and production needs.TrusTec® PRF n-Heptane from Chevron Phillips Chemical is a 99.78% n-heptane produced in the United States under strict quality standards to meet ASTM D-2699 and D-2700 requirements. It is intended to be used as a primary reference fuel for octane analysis.
ChemPoint is a specialty chemical distributor partnered with Chevron Phillips Chemical for the distribution of high-purity hydrocarbons in North America. Through ChemPoint, customers gain technical support, responsive service, and flexible logistics. Request a quote or speak with a specialist today to learn if n-Heptane is the right solution for your application.
What is n-heptane?
n-Heptane is the linear isomer of heptane, a seven-carbon alkane with the formula C7H16. In fuel testing, n-heptane defines the zero point of the octane scale. In manufacturing and labs, n-heptane serves as a fast-evaporating, nonpolar solvent.
How is n-heptane identified?
Common identifiers include the molecular formula C7H16, the EC number 205-563-8, and the CAS registry number 142-82-5.
How does n-heptane differ by grade?
Technical grades may contain other C7 isomers and trace aromatics, while analytical and narrow-cut, high-purity grades tighten impurity limits and distillation ranges.
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