Solvents
REACH
Heptane
CAS Number
142-82-5
EC Number
205-563-8
What is Heptane?
Heptane (CAS 142-82-5), also known as n-Heptane, is a straight-chain aliphatic hydrocarbon solvent.
Where is Heptane used?
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing: recrystallization solvent and reaction medium for API synthesis, where low residual solvent limits are tightly regulated
- Rubber and polymer production: dissolves and processes elastomers, controls polymerization, and prepares adhesive formulations
- Printing and packaging: fast-evaporating carrier solvent in gravure inks and surface coatings
- Analytical laboratories use n-heptane as a primary reference standard for octane rating tests and normal-phase chromatography.
Good to know: Controlled evaporation rate and low polarity suit extraction, cleaning, and reaction processes where residue-free performance is critical.
Commercial specifications
- Clear, colorless liquid in drums, IBCs, and bulk tanker quantities
- High-purity anhydrous grades for moisture-sensitive synthesis
Other Names (Synonyms)
n-Heptane|Heptan|Heptyl hydride|Dipropyl methane|Gettysolve-C|Skellysolve C|Heptanen
What are the physical properties of Heptane?
Melting Point -91 °C
Boiling Point 98 °C
Density 0.68 g/cm³
Flash Point 30 °F
Appearance n-Heptane is a clear liquid which is highly flammable and volatile with a mild, gasoline-like odor. The odor threshold is 40 547 ppm; also reported @ 230 ppm.
Color ≤10(APHA)
Odor Gasoline.
Form Liquid
Water Solubility practically insoluble
Vapor Pressure 40 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.397
Log P 4.660
How is Heptane classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS02· Flammable GHS07· Irritant GHS08· Health Hazard GHS09· Environmental Hazard
Hazard Statements
H225 Highly Flammable liquid and vapor
H304 May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways
H315 Causes skin irritation
H319 Causes serious eye irritation
Precautionary Statements
P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P233 Keep container tightly closed.
P240 Ground and bond container and receiving equipment.
P241 Use explosion-proof [electrical/ventilating/lighting/…] equipment.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Heptane?
HS Code 29011000
UN Number 1206
ADR Class 3
Packing Group II
WGK (Germany) 3