Basic Information

Chinese Name: 正己烷

English Name: n-Hexane

CAS No.: 110-54-3

Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₄

Molecular Weight: 86.18 g/mol

Appearance: Colorless, volatile liquid

Odor: Mild, gasoline-like odor

Boiling Point: 68.7–69.0 °C

Melting Point: −95.3 to −94.3 °C

Density (20 °C): 0.659–0.660 g/cm³

Flash Point: −22 to −23 °C (closed cup)

Solvent Properties

Solubility：

Insoluble in water

Miscible with ethanol, ether, chloroform, acetone, and most other organic solvents

Solvent Characteristics：

Non-polar solvent (low dielectric constant)

Good dissolving power for oils, fats, waxes, and most non-polar organic compounds

Relatively fast evaporation rate

Low surface tension

Main Applications

Extraction solvent for edible oils (soybean, sunflower, rapeseed, etc.)

Organic synthesis solvent and reaction medium

Cleaning agent and degreaser in industrial processes

Component in adhesives, paints, inks, and coatings formulations

Laboratory solvent for chromatography, extraction, and sample preparation

Intermediate in the production of other chemicals

Safety

Hazard Class: Highly flammable liquid and vapor

Fire & Explosion: Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air; flashback risk

Health Hazards:

Inhalation: May cause drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea; prolonged/repeated exposure can cause peripheral neuropathy

Skin contact: May cause dryness, irritation, defatting

Eye contact: May cause irritation

Handling & Storage:

Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, hot surfaces

Use explosion-proof equipment

Store in cool, well-ventilated area

Wear protective gloves, eye protection, and respiratory protection as needed