Textile TreatmentIn Stock

n-Hexane

Name: Zenco Systems Ltd - Chemical Division
Address: Industrial Area, Enterprise Road, KCB Building, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254114591982
Price range: KES

n-Hexane is a solvent widely used for extraction, cleaning, and manufacturing applications in East Africa.

n-Hexane plays a critical role in multiple industries including textiles, food processing, pharmaceuticals, and adhesives manufacturing in East Africa.

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Packaging

20L, 200L drums

Supply Region

Kenya, East Africa

Supplier

Zenco Systems Ltd

What is n-Hexane?

n-Hexane plays a critical role in multiple industries including textiles, food processing, pharmaceuticals, and adhesives manufacturing in East Africa. Industries operating in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and surrounding countries depend on n-Hexane for its effective solvent properties. It is chiefly valued as a versatile solvent for extraction processes, industrial cleaning, and chemical formulation.

Chemically classified as an alkane hydrocarbon with the formula C6H14, n-Hexane is a colorless, transparent liquid characterized by its low polarity and high volatility. These features make it particularly efficient at dissolving non-polar substances such as oils and fats. Because of its rapid evaporation rate, it minimizes residue on finished products, an advantage in textile treatment and adhesive manufacturing. Zenco Systems Ltd supplies n-Hexane reliably across East Africa, ensuring quality consistency and expert support to meet the demands of this varied industrial usage.

n-Hexane: Detailed Product Overview

n-Hexane is a linear alkane hydrocarbon consisting of six carbon atoms and fourteen hydrogen atoms, with the molecular formula C6H14. It is part of the broader hexane isomer family, but n-Hexane specifically refers to the straight-chain structure, which influences its physical and chemical behavior. Its molecular simplicity confers low polarity, a key feature that determines its solvent capabilities.

The solvent power of n-Hexane stems from its ability to dissolve lipophilic substances such as oils, fats, waxes, and greases, making it invaluable in industrial extraction processes. Its high volatility means it evaporates quickly at ambient temperatures, allowing efficient drying without leaving solvent residues that could compromise product quality. This property is essential in fast-paced manufacturing environments where drying time and surface cleanliness impact throughput and product performance.

Physically, n-Hexane is a colorless liquid with a characteristic mild odor, easily miscible with other non-polar solvents but practically insoluble in water. Its boiling point ranges around 69°C (156°F), which facilitates easy recovery and recycling through distillation if required. These traits underpin its commercial use in solvent extraction of edible oils from oilseeds, degreasing of metal parts in textiles and manufacturing plants, and formulation of adhesives where solvent evaporation defines curing dynamics.

Operating with n-Hexane requires understanding its flammability and associated vapor risks—its vapor forms explosive mixtures with air. Handling practices and storage conditions must ensure containment in sealed, flame-proof containers away from ignition sources. Buyers typically verify purity grades and ask for certificates of analysis relevant to their application to confirm absence of significant hexane isomers or contaminants. Zenco Systems Ltd supports these needs with specification transparency and responsive technical consultation, offering n-Hexane in packaging formats tailored for industrial scale usage in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and nearby markets.

Applications and Uses of n-Hexane

Oil Extraction

n-Hexane is extensively used to extract edible oils from seeds such as sunflower, soybean, and cottonseed. Its strong affinity for non-polar lipids enables efficient separation of oils while leaving behind solids. Typical industrial processes employ n-Hexane in counter-current extraction units, where careful control of temperature and solvent flow maximizes yield and oil quality. After extraction, the solvent is recovered by distillation for reuse, which supports economical operation. The solvent’s volatility enables near-complete removal from the final oil product, meeting food safety standards.

Industrial Cleaning

In textile milling and machinery maintenance, n-Hexane serves as an efficient degreasing agent. Its capability to dissolve oils and residues from metal surfaces and equipment prevents contamination and ensures smooth operation. Cleaning cycles typically involve immersion or wiping with n-Hexane, followed by evaporation at ambient or slightly elevated temperatures. This application benefits from n-Hexane’s rapid drying and minimal residue, contributing to reduced downtime and enhanced equipment longevity.

Adhesive Formulation

n-Hexane is a common solvent in adhesive manufacturing, particularly for rubber-based adhesives. It dissolves polymers and resins to create homogeneous solutions that can be applied smoothly and dry quickly. The fast evaporation rate of n-Hexane reduces curing time, allowing industrial-scale use for bonding in packaging, automotive, and footwear sectors. Manufacturers carefully control solvent ratios to balance viscosity, drying speed, and adhesive strength.

Pharmaceutical Solvent

In pharmaceutical production, n-Hexane is often employed as an extraction solvent for isolating active compounds and in intermediate processing steps. Its purity and low reactivity make it suitable for processes requiring non-polar solvents. Strict quality controls and adherence to pharmacopeia guidelines are essential where residual solvent levels must remain minimal in final products.

Laboratory Solvent

n-Hexane is utilized in analytical laboratories as a solvent for chromatography and spectroscopic sample preparation. Its chemical inertness and volatility allow for precise separation of non-polar analytes and rapid solvent removal post-analysis. It is also used in calibration and cleaning procedures due to its controlled solvent properties.

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

Benefits and Advantages

Efficient Solvent for Non-Polar Compounds

n-Hexane’s low polarity allows it to selectively dissolve oils, fats, and waxes effectively. This makes extraction and cleaning processes more efficient as target substances are removed cleanly without co-extracting unwanted water-soluble materials.

Rapid Evaporation Minimizes Residue

Because n-Hexane evaporates quickly at moderate temperatures, it leaves minimal residues on treated surfaces or products. This feature is especially important in food or pharmaceutical applications where solvent traces must be controlled.

Supports Cost-Effective Process Recovery

The solvent’s boiling point and chemical stability enable facility operators to recover and recycle n-Hexane by distillation. This reduces solvent consumption and operational costs over time, making it a sustainable choice for industrial users.

Versatile Across Multiple Industries

n-Hexane is suitable for diverse industrial sectors — from textile treatment to pharmaceutical manufacturing and adhesives formulation — offering a single solvent solution capable of meeting varied operational requirements.

Reliable Supply and Quality Assurance

Zenco Systems Ltd offers regional supply backed by quality control and expert technical support. Clients benefit from consistent product specifications and responsive logistics, critical for maintaining uninterrupted industrial production in East Africa.

Packaging Information

n-Hexane is supplied primarily in 20L and 200L drums, suitable for both small-scale and large industrial consumers. For heavy users in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, bulk deliveries can be arranged via tanker trucks under strict safety compliance. Drums are tightly sealed to prevent evaporation losses and contamination during transport and storage. The packaging formats support ease of handling at manufacturing sites and facilitate safe storage protocols required for flammable solvents.

Standard formats: 20L, 200L drums

Storage and Handling

Store n-Hexane in cool, well-ventilated areas away from heat, sparks, or open flames. Containers must be tightly sealed, constructed of compatible metals or approved chemical-grade plastics to prevent leaks or degradation. Given its high volatility and flammability, segregation from oxidizers and strong acids is mandatory to avoid hazardous reactions. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and maintain storage temperatures below 30°C where possible. Typically, shelf life depends on container integrity and storage conditions but confirm with supplier on maximum recommended storage duration. Always use appropriate personal protective equipment when handling, including gloves and eye protection, and ensure good ventilation to minimize vapor inhalation risks.

Safety Information

n-Hexane is highly flammable and poses inhalation hazards due to its volatile organic compounds. Handling requires flame-resistant clothing, chemical-resistant gloves, and safety goggles. In case of vapor exposure, work in well-ventilated spaces or under fume hoods. Avoid ignition sources and static discharge during transfer operations. In accidental spillage, use inert absorbent materials to contain and dispose of waste according to local hazardous waste regulations. For fire incidents, use foam, dry chemical powder, or carbon dioxide extinguishers. Consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided by Zenco Systems Ltd for comprehensive hazard identification and emergency response procedures.

Full hazard detail is available in the technical data sheet.

Technical Specifications

GradeConfirm with supplier

PurityConfirm with supplier

DensityApprox. 0.659 g/cm³ at 20°C

FormulaC6H14

Packaging20L and 200L drums

AppearanceColorless transparent liquid

CAS Number110-54-3

SolubilityInsoluble in water, miscible with organic solvents

Flash Point-22°C (closed cup)

Boiling Point68.7°C (156°F)

Chemical Namen-Hexane

Storage ConditionsStore in cool, ventilated, flame-proof area, tightly sealed container

Applications

Oil extraction
Industrial cleaning
Adhesives formulation
Pharmaceutical solvent
Laboratory solvent

Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

GradeConfirm with supplier

PurityConfirm with supplier

DensityApprox. 0.659 g/cm³ at 20°C

FormulaC6H14

Packaging20L and 200L drums

AppearanceColorless transparent liquid

CAS Number110-54-3

SolubilityInsoluble in water, miscible with organic solvents

Flash Point-22°C (closed cup)

Boiling Point68.7°C (156°F)

Chemical Namen-Hexane

Storage ConditionsStore in cool, ventilated, flame-proof area, tightly sealed container

Product Features

- Low polarity solvent
- High volatility with rapid evaporation
- Colorless transparent liquid
- Boiling point approximately 69°C
- Insoluble in water
- Flammable liquid and vapor

Industries Served

- Textile treatment
- Food processing
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing
- Adhesive and sealant production
- Laboratory and analytical
- Petrochemical extraction

Product Overview

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Frequently Asked Questions About n-Hexane

What are the main uses of n-Hexane in East Africa?

n-Hexane is primarily used for oil extraction from seeds, industrial cleaning, adhesive formulation, pharmaceutical solvent applications, and laboratory analysis across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and neighboring countries.

What should I verify before buying n-Hexane from a supplier?

Buyers should confirm the purity and grade specifications with the supplier, review the certificate of analysis, check packaging integrity, and ensure compliance with local regulations regarding flammable solvents.

Is n-Hexane available in small packaging for laboratory use?

Yes, Zenco Systems Ltd can supply n-Hexane in 20L drums suitable for lab and small-scale industrial applications, while larger 200L drums serve bulk requirements.

Can n-Hexane be transported and stored safely in Kenya and Uganda?

With proper sealed containers and storage away from ignition sources, n-Hexane can be safely transported and stored. Zenco Systems Ltd adheres to regional safety standards for handling flammable solvents.

Do you supply n-Hexane outside Kenya?

Yes, Zenco Systems Ltd supplies n-Hexane across East Africa including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and other neighboring markets, coordinating cross-border logistics for timely delivery.

What are the key safety precautions when handling n-Hexane?

Use chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection, and operate in well-ventilated areas. Avoid open flames and static discharge. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet for detailed handling and emergency measures.

Is n-Hexane suitable for use in food-grade applications?

n-Hexane can be used in food-grade oil extraction processes, but buyers should confirm the solvent purity and compliance with food safety standards from the supplier.

How long can n-Hexane be stored without degradation?

Shelf life depends on storage conditions. When stored sealed in cool, flame-proof containers, n-Hexane maintains stability for extended periods—confirm specific shelf life with your supplier.