Solvents
REACH
Isobutane
CAS Number
75-28-5
EC Number
200-857-2
E Number
E943a
What is Isobutane?
Isobutane (CAS 75-28-5) is a liquefied hydrocarbon gas used as a propellant and solvent carrier. Also recognised as R600a in refrigerant markets and E943b in food applications.
Where is Isobutane used?
- Food and aerosol manufacturing: propellant in spray products, delivering controlled pressure without residue
- Refrigeration systems, particularly domestic appliances and light commercial units: natural refrigerant with low global warming potential, an alternative to synthetic HFCs
- Oil and gas: blending component in alkylation processes to produce high-octane gasoline fractions
- Aerosol personal care and household products: solvent carrier that dissolves and uniformly disperses active ingredients
- Its low boiling point and clean vaporization profile suit residue-free delivery and efficient heat transfer.
Commercial specifications
- Refrigerant-grade R600a to high purity specifications
- Food-grade supply conforming to E943b specifications for aerosol and propellant use in regulated food contact applications
Other Names (Synonyms)
R600a|E943b|2-Methylpropane|(CH3)2CH-CH3|1,1-Dimethylethane|Caswell No. 503A|Propane, 2-methyl-
What are the physical properties of Isobutane?
Melting Point -138.3 °C
Boiling Point -11.7 °C
Density 0.61415 g/cm³ @ Temp: -29.5 °C
Flash Point -83 °C
Appearance colourless odourless gas (or colourless cryogenic liquid)
Color Colorless, very flammable gas with a faint odor
Form Colorless gas
Water Solubility 48.9 mg/kg at 25 °C (shake flask-GC, McAuliffe, 1963, 1966)
Vapor Pressure 72.2 psi ( 37.7 °C)
Refractive Index 1.3518
Log P 2.760
How is Isobutane classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS02· Flammable GHS04· Compressed Gas GHS08· Health Hazard GHS07· Irritant
Hazard Statements
H220 Extremely flammable gas
H280 Contains gas under pressure; may explode if heated
H332 Harmful if inhaled
H336 May cause drowsiness or dizziness
Precautionary Statements
P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use.
P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P222 Do not allow contact with air.
P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Isobutane?
HS Code 2901100000
UN Number 1969
ADR Class 2.1
Storage Class 2A - Gases