Petroleum Ether Technical Grade

Product Overview

Petroleum Ether Technical Grade (CAS 8032-32-4) is a refined aliphatic hydrocarbon solvent characterized by high volatility and a low boiling range (30–60°C). Often referred to as Ligroin or Benzin in industrial contexts, this clear, colorless liquid is engineered for processes requiring rapid evaporation and minimal residual content.

As a Technical Grade solvent, it consists primarily of pentanes and hexanes. It offers a low density (approx. 0.65–0.75 g/mL) and is non-polar, making it highly effective for dissolving fats, oils, and waxes without reacting with sensitive substrates. The solvent is manufactured to strict specifications, ensuring consistent solvency power for extraction, degreasing, and coating applications. Its quick turnover rate maximizes efficiency in manufacturing lines where drying speed is a critical process variable.

Key Properties

• CAS Number: 8032-32-4
• Chemical Nature: Aliphatic Hydrocarbon Mixture (C5-C6 predominant)
• Boiling Range: 30–60°C
• Specific Gravity: 0.65–0.75 (Typical 0.70)
• Appearance: Clear, Colorless Liquid
• Residue After Ignition: < 0.5%
• Water Content: < 0.5%
• Solubility: Immiscible with water; miscible with most organic solvents
• Flash Point: < -18°C (Closed Cup)

Common Applications

• Solvent Extraction: Used extensively to extract oils, fats, and waxes from plant materials and organic matrices due to its specific selectivity.
• Industrial Degreasing: Effective for cleaning metal parts, machinery, and precision components requiring a residue-free finish.
• Laboratory Reagent: Functions as a mobile phase in liquid chromatography and a standard solvent for organic synthesis.
• Coatings and Adhesives: Acts as a diluent to adjust viscosity and control evaporation rates in lacquer and adhesive formulations.
• Fuel and Oil Processing: Utilized in the refinement and processing of hydrocarbon-based products.

Safety and Handling

Petroleum Ether is a Class 3 Flammable Liquid (UN 3295). It poses significant fire and explosion hazards; store in a cool, well-ventilated area away from open flames, sparks, and heat sources. Use only non-sparking tools and grounded equipment during transfer to prevent static discharge.

Personnel should wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including solvent-resistant gloves and splash goggles. Inhalation of vapors can cause drowsiness or dizziness; ensure adequate ventilation or use respiratory protection if exposure limits are exceeded. In the event of a spill, contain with non-combustible absorbent material. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for comprehensive emergency response protocols.

Benefits

Rapid Evaporation: Low boiling point range ensures fast drying times for efficient batch processing.
High Solvency: Excellent non-polar characteristics for dissolving greases, lipids, and oils.
Technical Purity: Low residue profile prevents contamination in extraction and cleaning operations.

Related Products

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