Solvents
REACH
Isopentane
CAS Number
78-78-4
EC Number
201-142-8
What is Isopentane?
Isopentane (CAS 78-78-4), also supplied under the refrigerant designation R-601a, is a highly volatile hydrocarbon solvent.
Where is Isopentane used?
- Pharmaceutical and biomedical: cryogenic tissue-freezing medium enabling rapid specimen preservation without the cracking associated with liquid nitrogen
- Expandable polystyrene and polyolefin foam: blowing agent controlling cell structure and density in insulation and packaging materials
- Oil and gas: component in natural gasoline blending and reference standard in hydrocarbon analysis
- Flavor manufacturing: low-boiling solvent carrier in extraction and processing of volatile aroma compounds
- Its rapid evaporation rate makes it a carrier and blowing agent where low residue and fast flash-off are critical.
Commercial specifications
- Cylinders, drums, and isotanks
- High-purity research grade and technical grade
- Anhydrous and low-sulfur specifications
Other Names (Synonyms)
R-601a|iso-C5H12|1,1,2-trimethylethane|1,1-dimethylpropane|(CH3)2CH-CH2-CH3|2-methylbutane|Butane, 2-methyl-
What are the physical properties of Isopentane?
Melting Point -159.9 °C
Boiling Point 27.8 °C @ Press: 760 Torr
Density 0.6201 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point −51 °C
Appearance colourless liquid with a characteristic smell
Color Clear colorless
Odor gasoline-like odor
Form Liquid
Water Solubility Miscible with water, hydrocarbons, oils, alcohol and ether.
Vapor Pressure 11.17 psi ( 20 °C)
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.354(lit.)
Log P 3.4 at 20℃
How is Isopentane classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS02· Flammable GHS07· Irritant GHS08· Health Hazard GHS09· Environmental Hazard
Hazard Statements
H224 Extremely 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 Isopentane?
HS Code 29011000
UN Number 1265
ADR Class 3
Packing Group I
Storage Class 3 - Flammable liquids
WGK (Germany) 2