N-Hexadecane is a straight-chain alkane hydrocarbon with sixteen carbon atoms. Its chemical formula is C16H34 and its molecular weight reaches about 226.44 g/mol. In my years in industrial supply, I’ve seen this compound show up as a clear, colorless liquid at room temperature, often without a strong odor. Chemists describe its structure as unbranched, made up of long chains of carbon and hydrogen, which plays a big part in how it works and why it’s so widely used as a chemical raw material. Its CAS number is 544-76-3, for buyers checking compliance and regulatory data.
In terms of physical appearance, N-Hexadecane behaves differently depending on temperature. Most common at room temperature is the liquid form, but under certain conditions it can appear as a soft solid or even as crystalline flakes. I’ve handled it in large drums as a viscous liquid—almost oily—at standard warehouse temperatures. For niche applications, it’s also processed as a powder, small pearls, or in crystalline form. The choice between liquid, solid, or powder depends on how the material needs to be measured, mixed, or stored. Bulk chemicals suppliers list all forms in their catalogs, but liquid remains the most common in laboratories and factories due to handling ease.
The structure of N-Hexadecane is straightforward. All carbon atoms connect in a simple chain, each pair joined by single covalent bonds. This unbranched shape results in predictable behavior, contributing to its high boiling point around 287°C (548.6°F) and its melting range near 18°C (64.4°F). In storage tanks, I’ve personally checked the density, which sits close to 0.77 g/cm³ at 20°C. It’s nonpolar, so it won’t mix with water but blends well with other hydrocarbons. Its solubility in organic solvents like ether and benzene means it acts as a useful medium for various research and manufacturing purposes. In my own work, it occasionally gets used to calibrate thermal systems because those physical constants rarely shift under standard pressure.
While N-Hexadecane is stable under normal handling, there’s a need to give attention to flammability. It catches fire at higher temperatures and burns with a luminous flame, so the material should always stay away from open flames or hot surfaces. Over the years, I’ve noticed strict safety data sheets on the drums: the flash point hovers at roughly 140°C, which means it needs storage in cool, well-ventilated places. Inhalation or ingestion can irritate the body, and prolonged skin contact sometimes leads to minor irritation. Proper use of protective gloves and goggles helps avoid accidents. For people managing hazardous materials, the United Nations assigns N-Hexadecane the HS Code 2901.10, which helps border authorities and logistics teams track and manage safe shipments.
In industry, N-Hexadecane often serves as a solvent, calibration fluid, or even as a reference substance in petroleum analysis. I’ve watched refinery workers use its stable boiling point for calibrating distillation columns. Its high purity appeals to labs setting up analytical standards or creating synthetic lubrication fluids. The downside is waste disposal—any excess or spilled N-Hexadecane becomes a hazardous waste and must go to specialized treatment, following local and national guidelines. Investing in spill kits and employee training makes a real difference, preventing both workplace injuries and environmental damage. Some companies implement closed-loop handling to capture vapors and recycle the solvent, cutting hazard exposure and waste at the same time.
High-purity N-Hexadecane typically lists a minimum content of 99%. Key specifications often include boiling range, appearance (clear and colorless), and absence of significant impurities. Large buyers sometimes request specific packaging sizes—drums, smaller jerrycans, or glass bottles—to suit their operations. For laboratory use, analytical grade certifications, documentation on trace metals, and safety compliance ticks can be required. These details matter to safety officers, purchasing agents, and anyone in a regulated environment. Based on supply chain experience, the better suppliers offer transparency on batch certificates, since a missing document or noncompliance can stall an entire process.
Handling N-Hexadecane safely calls for proper labeling, storage in closed containers, and thorough employee training. Fire safety equipment like extinguishers must be accessible in case of emergency. In facilities where I’ve worked, regular inspections limit risk of leaks or spills, and training updates help staff stay sharp on emergency procedures. Long-term, industries can look at alternatives or blended materials, aiming to keep performance high with lower environmental impact. Research into green chemistry continues, but for now, practices focusing on safety, traceability, and responsible disposal lead to better outcomes for people and the environment.
