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Isopentane

CAS Number
78-78-4
EC Number
201-142-8
Chemical Formula
C5H12
Molecular Weight
72.15 g/mol

Description

Isopentane (CAS 78-78-4 ), also supplied under the refrigerant designation R-601a, is a highly volatile hydrocarbon solvent used across industrial, laboratory, and specialty gas applications. Its rapid evaporation rate makes it a preferred carrier and blowing agent where low residue and fast flash-off are critical procurement requirements for various manufacturing processes. In the pharmaceutical and biomedical sector, isopentane is used as a cryogenic tissue-freezing medium, enabling rapid specimen preservation without the cracking associated with liquid nitrogen. As a blowing agent in expandable polystyrene and polyolefin foam manufacturing, it controls cell structure and density in insulation and packaging materials for the construction industry. In the oil and gas industry, it functions as a component in natural gasoline blending and as a reference standard in hydrocarbon analysis for laboratory testing and calibration. Flavor manufacturers also use isopentane as a low-boiling solvent carrier in the extraction and processing of volatile aroma compounds to ensure high-quality sensory profiles in final products. Isopentane is supplied as a liquefied gas or pressurized liquid at ambient temperature, typically in cylinders, drums, and isotanks depending on specific volume requirements of the client. Standard commercial grades include high-purity research grade and technical grade for industrial blowing agent applications. Anhydrous and low-sulfur specifications are available to meet process sensitivity. Contact us for supply of Isopentane Request Quote

Other Names (Synonyms)

R-601a | iso-C5H12 | 1,1,2-trimethylethane | 1,1-dimethylpropane | (CH3)2CH-CH2-CH3 | 2-methylbutane | Butane, 2-methyl-

Key Technical Features

  • High Purity Grade standard
  • Consistent Batch Quality
  • Full Regulatory & REACH Support
  • Global Logistics Network enabled

Physical Properties

Melting Point-159.9 °C
Boiling Point27.8 °C @ Press: 760 Torr
Density0.6201 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point−51 °C
Appearancecolourless liquid with a characteristic smell
ColorClear colorless
Odorgasoline-like odor
FormLiquid
Water SolubilityMiscible with water, hydrocarbons, oils, alcohol and ether.
Vapor Pressure11.17 psi ( 20 °C)
Refractive Indexn 20/D 1.354(lit.)
Log P3.4 at 20℃

Safety & Handling

Danger
GHS02· FlammableGHS07· IrritantGHS08· Health HazardGHS09· Environment

Hazard Statements

H224Extremely flammable liquid and vapor
H304May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways
H315Causes skin irritation
H319Causes serious eye irritation
H335May cause respiratory irritation
H336May cause drowsiness or dizziness
H401Toxic to aquatic life
H411Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects

Precautionary Statements

P210Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P233Keep container tightly closed.
P240Ground and bond container and receiving equipment.
P241Use explosion-proof equipment.
P242Use non-sparking tools.
P243Take action to prevent static discharges.
P261Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P271Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
P273Avoid release to the environment.
P280Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
P319Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell.
P321Specific treatment (see … on this label).
P331Do NOT induce vomiting.
P391Collect spillage.
P405Store locked up.
P501Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations.
P265Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P316Get emergency medical help immediately.
P352IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water.
P340IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P317If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help.
P364Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse.
P378Use … for extinction.
P233Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed.
P235Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep cool.
P353IF ON SKIN (or hair): Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower.
P338IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code29011000
UN Number1265
ADR Class3
Packing GroupI
Storage Class3 - Flammable liquids
WGK (Germany)2