n-Heptane
High-Purity Non-Polar Hydrocarbon Solvent — API Crystallisation, Extraction & Precision Cleaning; Lower-Toxicity Alternative to Hexane
CAS: 142-82-5 EC: 205-563-8 Assay: ≥ 99.5%
n-Heptane (normal heptane, CAS 142-82-5) is a high-purity C₇ straight-chain alkane and one of the workhorse non-polar solvents of the pharmaceutical and fine-chemical industries. Free of the neurotoxic metabolite concern associated with n-hexane, it is widely adopted as the preferred replacement in extraction, API crystallisation, and precision cleaning, and it also serves as the 100-octane reference fuel standard. Royalchem supplies it at ≥ 99.5% purity with ≤ 50 ppm moisture as a clear, colourless liquid, delivered by drum, IBC, or ISO tank.
Technical Specifications (COA Data)
| Assay (GC) | ≥ 99.5% |
| Appearance | Clear, colourless liquid |
| Moisture (KF) | ≤ 50 ppm |
| Molecular Weight | 100.20 g/mol |
| Density (20 °C) | ≈ 0.684 g/mL |
| Boiling Point | ≈ 98 °C |
| Flash Point | ≈ −4 °C (closed cup) |
*Regulatory: EINECS-listed (EC 205-563-8); REACH-registered; manufactured under ISO 9001. GHS — Danger: highly flammable liquid and vapour (H225); may be fatal if swallowed and enters airways (H304); causes skin irritation (H315); may cause drowsiness or dizziness (H336); very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects (H410). Shipped as a Class 3 flammable liquid (UN 1206, PG II) — keep away from heat, sparks, and ignition sources with proper bonding and grounding. Always refer to the current SDS.
Key Properties
• Molecular Formula: C₇H₁₆
• Molecular Weight: 100.20
• Boiling Point: ≈ 98 °C
• Density (20 °C): ≈ 0.684 g/mL
API Manufacturing & Crystallisation
A workhorse anti-solvent and recrystallisation medium for high-purity APIs (e.g. aspirin, ibuprofen) and pharmaceutical intermediates, and an extraction solvent for active compounds — the standard lower-toxicity replacement for n-hexane in GMP processes.
Electronics & Precision Cleaning
A fast-evaporating, residue-free solvent for precision cleaning of electronic components, PCBs, and semiconductor devices, and for laboratory and analytical use including HPLC mobile phases and octane-rating reference fuel.
Rubber, Polymers & Coatings
A process solvent for rubber cements and adhesives, polymerisation and polymer processing, and specialty paints and coating formulations requiring a clean, non-aromatic hydrocarbon diluent.