Octadecane
Description
Octadecane (CAS 593-45-3) is a straight-chain saturated hydrocarbon sourced from petroleum fractions and used commercially as a functional wax component, lubricant base, and phase-change material.
Its well-defined melting point makes it a reference standard and functional ingredient across multiple industrial sectors. In personal care and cosmetics, it functions as a texture modifier and emollient carrier.
It is used in creams, balms, and stick formulations where a controlled melt profile is required. Lubricant and metalworking formulators incorporate it as a base component in release agents and process oils.
This material is ideal where a clean, non-reactive hydrocarbon matrix is needed. In textile and leather finishing, it contributes to surface modification treatments that improve slip, hand feel, and water resistance.
The food and packaging industry uses high-purity material as a phase-change material in thermal management applications and as a reference compound for analytical calibration and testing procedures.
The product is supplied as a white crystalline solid or flake, with purity grades typically ranging from 95% technical to 99%+ high-purity research and analytical grades for laboratory use.
Food-contact and cosmetic-grade material is available with supporting documentation for regulatory compliance. Bulk quantities are offered alongside smaller units suited for formulation development.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 28.2 °C |
| Boiling Point | 315.84 °C |
| Density | 0.772 g/cm³ |
| Flash Point | 330 °F |
| Appearance | white crystals or powder |
| Color | White |
| Form | Crystalline Mass/Melt |
| Water Solubility | No rapid reaction with water. |
| Vapor Pressure | 1 mm Hg ( 119 °C) |
| Refractive Index | 1.4390 |
| Log P | 9.32 at 20℃ |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29011000 |
| Storage Class | 10 - Combustible liquids |
| WGK (Germany) | 3 |
Documentation
Other Names
n-octadecane|N102P6HAIU|RefChem:6081|octadecane, 14C-labeled cpd|C18-n-Alkane|Cactus Normal Paraffin TS 8
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