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N Hexane

N Hexane is an organic solvent used mainly for extracting edible oils and industrial applications.

N Hexane functions primarily as a solvent, excelling in dissolving oils and non-polar substances efficiently.

Packaging

20L drum, 200L drum

Supply Region

Kenya, East Africa

Supplier

Zenco Systems Ltd

What is N Hexane?

N Hexane functions primarily as a solvent, excelling in dissolving oils and non-polar substances efficiently. Its volatility and low boiling point facilitate rapid evaporation during extraction and cleaning processes, making it indispensable in various industrial settings. Chemically defined as C6H14, n-Hexane is a colorless, transparent liquid with a gasoline-like odor, classified as an alkane hydrocarbon.

This solvent is essential in the edible oil extraction industry, where it dissolves oils from oilseeds to yield high-purity edible oils while allowing easy solvent recovery through evaporation. Beyond agriculture, n-Hexane is widely deployed in industrial cleaning and degreasing, given its excellent capacity to strip oils and greases without leaving residues. In addition, it serves as a solvent in adhesive and coating production, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and laboratory applications such as chromatography.

Zenco Systems Ltd provides n-Hexane reliably across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and neighboring East African countries. Our regional logistics ensure steady supply critical to industries reliant on solvent extraction and cleaning. Buyers can trust our expertise to deliver a product meeting technical needs while observing safety and regulatory standards in all applications.

N Hexane: Detailed Product Overview

N Hexane is composed exclusively of six carbon atoms bonded in a linear alkane chain, giving it the chemical formula C6H14. Its lack of polar functional groups dictates its role as a non-polar solvent, particularly suited for dissolving lipophilic compounds like vegetable oils and hydrocarbons. The mechanism behind its solvent action lies in its ability to surround and interact with non-polar molecules via Van der Waals forces, efficiently breaking down complex oil matrices during extraction.

The physical properties of n-Hexane, notably a boiling point around 68-70°C and high volatility, allow it to evaporate quickly after oil extraction or cleaning, minimizing solvent residues in final products. It has low water solubility, which prevents contamination during oil-water separation stages common in extraction processes.

Performance-wise, n-Hexane offers high solvent power balanced with relatively low toxicity compared to aromatic hydrocarbons, yet it remains flammable and must be handled cautiously. Purity levels vary by intended application; food-grade hexane demands stringent specifications to avoid impurities affecting oil quality, while industrial grades permit wider tolerances.

Critical parameters for industrial users include solvent purity, distillation range, and residual moisture content, all influencing extraction efficiency and safety. Zenco Systems Ltd advises buyers to confirm exact specifications on order since regional industrial requirements and regulatory conditions may differ in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Proper characterization ensures optimal process results and compliance.

Applications and Uses of N Hexane

Edible Oil Extraction

N Hexane is the solvent of choice for extracting oils from seeds such as sunflower, soybean, and canola. The solvent penetrates the seed matrix, dissolving lipids which are then separated from the solid residues. Hexane’s volatility enables quick removal by evaporation, preserving oil quality and facilitating solvent recovery and reuse. Typical use involves controlled extraction columns or tanks maintaining specific temperature and solvent ratios to maximize yield and purity.

Industrial Cleaning and Degreasing

In manufacturing and maintenance, n-Hexane removes stubborn greases, waxes, and oils from metal parts and machinery. It dissolves contaminants rapidly without harming metal surfaces or leaving residues. Its fast evaporation aids rapid drying post-cleaning. This application requires caution due to flammability and ventilation needs but delivers efficient degreasing with minimized downtime.

Solvent in Adhesives and Coatings

N Hexane acts as a carrier solvent in adhesives and paint formulations. It helps dissolve polymers and resins to achieve appropriate viscosity for application. During drying, hexane evaporates cleanly, allowing films and adhesives to set with minimal residual solvent impact on final product performance. Its compatibility with various organic compounds makes it a preferred solvent in formulating consistent coating products.

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

Within pharmaceutical production, n-Hexane is used as a solvent in certain extraction and purification steps, especially for plant-derived active ingredients. It enables selective separation of non-polar compounds and facilitates crystallization processes. Precision in solvent purity and consistent supply from suppliers like Zenco Systems Ltd are crucial to meet regulatory and formulation standards.

Laboratory Solvent and Chromatography

In analytical laboratories, n-Hexane serves as a reference solvent in chromatographic separation due to its non-polar character. It helps identify and quantify lipid components or volatile organic compounds by dissolving samples uniformly without reacting chemically. Its reproducible volatility and purity are critical for consistent laboratory results.

Looking for alternatives for a specific process? Browse the full Agricultural Chemicals range or ask our technical team which grade fits your application.

Benefits and Advantages

Efficient Extraction and Solvent Recovery

N Hexane’s volatility and solvent power optimize extraction efficiency by dissolving oils while enabling easy evaporation afterward. This translates to higher oil yields with retained quality while reducing solvent losses and operational costs due to successful solvent recovery cycles.

Versatility Across Industries

The chemical’s non-polar nature allows it to serve diverse roles from food oil extraction to industrial degreasing, adhesive formulation, and pharmaceutical manufacturing. This interoperability simplifies procurement and inventory management for companies sourcing solvents for multiple processes.

Compatibility and Purity Control

N Hexane can be supplied with specifications matched to application needs, such as food-grade purity for edible oils or technical grade for industrial cleaning. This flexibility ensures safety compliance and product performance without compromise.

Reliable Regional Supply Chain

Zenco Systems Ltd’s commitment to supplying n-Hexane across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania assures customers of timely delivery and adherence to East African industrial standards. Reliable local availability reduces lead times and lowers supply disruption risks.

Packaging Information

N Hexane is available in 20L and 200L drums suitable for various scales of industrial use. These containers are designed for secure transport and storage, compatible with regional handling infrastructure in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. For larger volume requirements, customers can arrange special bulk shipments through Zenco Systems Ltd’s logistics services. The sturdy drum packaging supports safe containment of this flammable solvent during distribution and storage.

Standard formats: 20L drum, 200L drum

Storage and Handling

Store n-Hexane in cool, dry, and well-ventilated areas away from sources of heat, sparks, or open flames due to its flammability. Use appropriate sealed containers compatible with hydrocarbon solvents to prevent leakages and evaporation loss. Avoid prolonged exposure to air to minimize degradation. Segregate from oxidizers and acids. Handling requires protective gloves and eye protection. Typical shelf life depends on storage conditions, but ensure regular inspections and consult the supplier for recommended shelf life limits.

Safety Information

N Hexane is a flammable liquid and volatile organic compound presenting inhalation and skin absorption hazards. Personal protective equipment such as chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, and adequate ventilation are mandatory during handling. In case of exposure, move to fresh air and seek medical attention if symptoms persist. Avoid ignition sources near storage and use. Dispose of waste solvent in accordance with local environmental regulations. Consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from Zenco Systems Ltd for detailed hazard and first aid information.

Full hazard detail is available in the technical data sheet.

Technical Specifications

GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
Density0.66-0.66 g/cm³ at 20°C (typical)
FormulaC6H14
Packaging20L drum, 200L drum
AppearanceColorless transparent liquid
CAS Number110-54-3
SolubilityPractically insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents
Boiling PointApproximately 68-70°C
Chemical Namen-Hexane
Storage ConditionsCool, well-ventilated, away from ignition

Applications

  • Edible oil extraction
  • Industrial cleaning and degreasing
  • Solvent in adhesives and coatings
  • Pharmaceutical manufacturing
  • Laboratory solvent

Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
Density0.66-0.66 g/cm³ at 20°C (typical)
FormulaC6H14
Packaging20L drum, 200L drum
AppearanceColorless transparent liquid
CAS Number110-54-3
SolubilityPractically insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents
Boiling PointApproximately 68-70°C
Chemical Namen-Hexane
Storage ConditionsCool, well-ventilated, away from ignition

Product Features

  • - Colorless transparent liquid
  • - Volatile with gasoline-like odor
  • - Non-polar hydrocarbon solvent
  • - Boiling point around 68-70°C
  • - Low water solubility
  • - High solvent power for oils

Industries Served

  • - Edible oil processing
  • - Manufacturing and maintenance
  • - Adhesive and coatings production
  • - Pharmaceutical manufacturing
  • - Analytical laboratories

Product Overview

Frequently Asked Questions About N Hexane

What is n-Hexane mainly used for?

N Hexane is primarily used as a solvent to extract edible oils from seeds, perform industrial cleaning and degreasing, and as a solvent in adhesives, coatings, and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Is n-Hexane safe for food-related applications?

Yes, food-grade n-Hexane with certified purity is used in edible oil extraction to ensure no harmful residues remain. Always confirm supply grade and specifications before use in food processing.

How should n-Hexane be stored to maintain quality?

Store in sealed, compatible containers in cool, well-ventilated areas away from ignition sources. Avoid exposure to heat or air to preserve solvent purity and prevent evaporation loss.

Do you supply n-Hexane outside Kenya?

Yes, Zenco Systems Ltd supplies n-Hexane across East Africa, including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and neighboring countries, with reliable regional logistics and delivery options.

What packaging sizes are available for n-Hexane?

N Hexane is offered in 20L and 200L drums, suitable for both small and large industrial users. Bulk supply options may be arranged through consultation.

What safety precautions are necessary when handling n-Hexane?

Use chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection, and ensure adequate ventilation to avoid inhalation or skin contact. Keep away from open flames as n-Hexane is highly flammable.

Can n-Hexane be used in laboratory chromatography?

Yes, its non-polar solvent properties make n-Hexane suitable for chromatographic analysis and synthesis requiring consistent solvent behavior.

What factors should I check before purchasing n-Hexane?

Confirm the required purity grade, packaging format, compliance with regional standards, and supplier’s ability to deliver on time. Zenco Systems Ltd can advise on specification details.

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