| Names | |
|---|---|
| Preferred IUPAC name | butan-2-amine |
| Other names | Butane n-Butyl hydride 1-Butane Butani Methylethylmethane |
| Pronunciation | /ɛnˈbjuːteɪn/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | 106-97-8 |
| Beilstein Reference | 636068 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:37808 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL142995 |
| ChemSpider | 8554 |
| DrugBank | DB14197 |
| ECHA InfoCard | 100.029.568 |
| EC Number | 204-658-1 |
| Gmelin Reference | 632 |
| KEGG | C00498 |
| MeSH | D002048 |
| PubChem CID | 7843 |
| RTECS number | EJ4200000 |
| UNII | WTX8ET0EW8 |
| UN number | UN1011 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C4H10 |
| Molar mass | 58.12 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless gas |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Density | 2.48 kg/m³ |
| Solubility in water | 2.4 mg/100 mL (25 °C) |
| log P | 2.89 |
| Vapor pressure | 220 kPa (20°C) |
| Acidity (pKa) | 50 |
| Basicity (pKb) | ~ -3.0 |
| Magnetic susceptibility (χ) | '-15.7×10⁻⁶ cm³/mol' |
| Refractive index (nD) | 1.353 |
| Viscosity | 0.134 cP |
| Dipole moment | 0.00 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | 310.2 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298) | -125.6 kJ/mol |
| Std enthalpy of combustion (ΔcH⦵298) | -2877 kJ/mol |
| Pharmacology | |
| ATC code | V03AN01 |
| Hazards | |
| GHS labelling | GHS02, GHS04, Danger, H220, H280, P210, P377, P381, P403 |
| Pictograms | GHS02, GHS04 |
| Signal word | Danger |
| Hazard statements | H220, H280 |
| Precautionary statements | P210, P377, P381, P410+P403 |
| NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | 1-4-0 |
| Flash point | -60 °C |
| Autoignition temperature | 287.85 °C |
| Explosive limits | 1.8–8.4% |
| Lethal dose or concentration | LC50 inhalation rat 658 mg/L 4h |
| LD50 (median dose) | 658,000 mg/m3 (inhalation, rat, 4 hours) |
| NIOSH | RN8460000 |
| PEL (Permissible) | 800 ppm |
| REL (Recommended) | 800 ppm |
| IDLH (Immediate danger) | 1600 ppm |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds | Methane Ethane Propane Isobutane |
| Property | Industrial Commentary |
|---|---|
| Product Name | N-Butane is described using its common name in industry; chemical purchasing and logistics teams use this term for ordering and compliance. |
| IUPAC Name | Butane. Technical documentation always references the IUPAC name to avoid ambiguity with isomeric forms; essential for regulatory reporting and accurate shipment labeling. |
| Chemical Formula | C4H10. N-Butane’s formula is standard for quality testing during GC-FID analysis, confirming molecular integrity batch to batch. |
| Synonyms & Trade Names | n-Butane, Normal Butane. In upstream operations, “n-butane” distinguishes it from isobutane during fractionation and storage. Trade names may appear in internal documentation depending on end-user industry or global region. |
| CAS Number | 106-97-8. Procurement, quality, and regulatory teams use this identifier for cross-referencing SDS, customs documentation, and analytical lab standards, minimizing confusion across supply chain stakeholders. |
| HS Code & Customs Classification | 2711.13. N-Butane falls within the petroleum gases category. For international shipping, proper declaration using the correct HS code is required to comply with customs and excise controls. Border agencies and internal logistics depend on correct classification for duties, transit documentation, and safety audits. Application-dependent blending grades must sometimes be clarified for customs pre-clearance if sold as a mixed LPG stream. |
Production batches of N-Butane generally leave the refining unit as a colorless gas at ambient conditions. Liquefaction often occurs for transport and bulk storage, yielding a clear, volatile liquid with a typical mild gasoline-like odor. Visual and olfactory checks during transfer help detect evidence of leaks or cross-contamination, but cannot replace analytical controls. Liquid-gas phase behavior is grade-sensitive, especially at varying pressures and temperatures. Commercially, pressurization keeps N-Butane in liquid form above its atmospheric boiling point. Melting and boiling points shift slightly based on trace impurities and pressure. Nominal boiling point aligns with standard reference data, usually below ambient temperature.
Density depends on the phase (liquid or vapor), exact temperature, and impurities content. Bulk deliveries regularly require precise measurement at the actual transfer conditions. Flash point lies below ambient, which dictates strict ignition source management throughout storage and processing. Temperature monitoring and vapor containment are non-negotiable.
N-Butane from stable production runs generally resists spontaneous reaction under normal storage and use in closed systems. Reactivity accelerates under elevated temperatures, in the presence of oxygen, or with strong oxidizers. Variations in trace impurity load directly alter auto-ignition behavior and contaminant formation, highlighting the importance of robust purification and leak-tight handling.
N-Butane’s low solubility in water complicates wastewater management and environmental controls around production, especially during depressurization events. It dissolves readily in common organic solvents, which facilitates quality testing and process troubleshooting. Solvent compatibility must be confirmed for analytical calibration and downstream chemical synthesis.
Product grades cluster around industrial, commercial, and high-purity requirements. Each grade’s specification aligns with regional regulations, end-use application, and downstream process.
| Parameter | Typical Grade Criteria |
|---|---|
| Purity (n-Butane) | Specified as minimum percent by volume, varying per application |
| Total Olefins | Set as maximum allowable; influences polymer and alkylation quality |
| Sulfur Content | Strictly limited for chemical feedstock grades |
| Moisture | Moisture control sharpens when downstream water sensitivity matters |
| Non-volatile Residue | Impurity level specifications graded to impact on vaporization or reaction yield |
Production route, raw material quality, and purification determine final impurity profile. Typical impurities include isobutane, propane, butenes, and trace sulfur compounds. Exact tolerances follow grade and customer-driven release criteria. In-process controls target residual unsaturates, moisture, sulfur, and heavy ends depending on final application.
Standardized methods include gas chromatography for purity and key impurities, ASTM or ISO protocols for trace sulfur, and Karl Fischer titration for moisture analysis. Each shipment undergoes release testing guided by contract specification or internal SOPs.
Commercial N-Butane production leverages natural gas streams, refinery off-gas, or NGL fractionation. Source selection responds to economics, regional feedstock composition, and integration with broader refining or petrochemical operations. High-purity applications command selective fractionation or dedicated purification trains.
N-Butane arises from physical separation, not chemical synthesis, so fractionation logic dominates. Selection of distillation train cut-points or absorber design reflects contaminant volatility and targeted recovery rates.
Key control points lie in the distillation and purification sequence. Process units operate to minimize C3/C4 and N-butane/I-butane crossover. Absorbers, dryers, and catalyst beds remove light gases, olefins, water, and sulfur. Any deviation triggers corrective action in real time to curb out-of-spec production.
In-house labs verify conformity with product requirements prior to filling. Production records document every stage, from raw input through batch release. Release standards trace back to measured data, with ongoing method validation against external references. Final batch approval depends on specifications matching contracted or internal standards.
Industrial use of N-Butane focuses on reforming, isomerization, alkylation, pyrolysis, and dehydrogenation. Downstream value comes from creating butenes, butadiene, and isobutane, or as feedstock for synthesis gas, maleic anhydride, or MTBE.
Reaction conditions depend on targeted output. Isomerization operates over acidic or metal catalysts at moderate temperatures. Dehydrogenation units favor high temperatures using selective catalysts. Process gas composition and minor impurities affect catalyst life and reaction selectivity.
N-Butane transforms into C4 olefins, butadiene, isobutane, and specialty intermediates under defined process regimes. Purity requirements ratchet higher for derivative manufacturing, especially in polymer and specialty chemical chains. Undesirable by-products form if non-targeted impurities or process upset events persist, which underlines the need for robust upstream controls.
N-Butane storage demands pressure-rated, hydrocarbon-compatible tanks and valves. Vapor space blanketing reduces oxygen ingress risks. Storage temperature and pressure specifications reflect the vapor pressure curve for the supplied grade.
Metals resistant to hydrocarbon embrittlement and elastomers with verified resistance to n-butane and its trace components prevent seal and liner degradation. Transfer hoses and valves receive regular inspection and replacement according to real-world service intervals.
Shelf life aligns with containment integrity. Ingress of oxygen, moisture, or external contamination represents the primary degradation risk. Manufacturers flag suspicious odor, phase separation, or unusual pressure changes during tank sampling as signs of compromise. Periodic retesting may be mandated for long-stored inventory, based on customer or internal guidelines.
N-Butane carries standard hydrocarbon GHS hazard classes for flammability and asphyxiation risk in poorly ventilated areas. Classification specifics depend on regional law and dilution baseline.
Release of N-Butane vapor results in rapid flammable atmosphere build-up near ground level. Ignition source exclusion, use of explosion-proof equipment, and active area monitoring remain mandatory across transfer, use, and sampling. Purging, grounding, and static control engineering prevent flashback and explosion during bulk or laboratory handling.
Acute and chronic toxicity relates primarily to inhalation exposure, not skin or oral routes under normal use. N-Butane, even at sub-flammable levels, displaces oxygen, so atmospheric oxygen content monitoring is standard. High exposure may cause CNS effects and narcosis.
Permissible exposure ceiling values vary worldwide. Facility-specific controls, personal gas detection, and area ventilation protocols dominate workplace risk management. Operators train for emergency depressurization and vapor recovery drill to ensure quick, safe response to accidental release. Each new installation or process change triggers review of current engineering and administrative control measures.
Modern n-butane production stems from both refinery separation units and natural gas processing streams, often dictated by feedstock access and market allocation orders. Output volumes shift according to crude oil and natural gas throughput rates as operators adjust runs for regional demand and maintenance schedules. Portable inventory hinges on plant reliability, storage turnover, and market contract commitments. We prioritize allocation for long-term contract customers and volume buyers during tight supply phases.
Lead times for bulk loading typically fall within one to two weeks from order confirmation for contract customers, though spot sales remain subject to available inventory and logistics congestion. Minimum order quantities depend on delivery method: pressurized tanks naturally require larger lifts than smaller ISO containers or cylinders used for specialty applications. Actual threshold settings align with transportation infrastructure, regulatory compliance (such as cylinder certification), and customer unloading capability.
Pressurized railcars and bulk tanker trucks serve as the primary packaging for larger scale users, primarily in industrial and fuel blending segments. ISO containers accommodate international shipments and export sales. Cylinder filling caters to smaller volume or laboratory users; certification and valve compatibility dictate allowable packaging type. Selection reflects storage conditions at the receiving site and customer equipment integration preferences.
Delivery terms prioritize safety standards, pressure management, and local legal constraints. Payment cycles favor established contract buyers, with credit assessment governing terms for spot and international accounts. We operate under Incoterms (FOB, CIF, DDP), adjusted to customer location and preferences regarding freight, customs, and insurance responsibilities. Regulatory adherence in shipping documentation remains mandatory to satisfy both customs and destination-specific hazmat controls.
Feedstock selection directly impacts production economics: n-butane extracted from crude oil distillation faces crude volatility, while supply from natural gas liquids tracks gas market dynamics. Raw material typically comprises a dominant share of cost, especially during periods of commodity market disruption or energy crisis. Operating costs fluctuate with energy prices, labor market trends, and plant efficiency improvements. Higher purity grades for chemical process use involve additional distillation passes and impurity rejection steps, affecting consumption rates and final cost per tonne.
Price differentials appear across grades: fuel blendstock grades command a discount to high-purity chemical feedstock, which incurs added separation, certification, and testing cost. Certified packaging, such as lab cylinders, pulls a premium based on compatibility, traceability, and compliance documentation.
Global energy market shocks, refinery operating rates, and upstream wellhead supply disruptions drive volatility. Geopolitical risk, pipeline outages, and trade barrier shifts (sanctions or tariffs) create regional price gaps. Currency exchange swings also pass through rapidly to delivered cost in cross-border sales. Winter seasonal fuel demand and summer petrochemical upticks introduce cyclical volatility, particularly in North America and Northeast Asia.
Product destined for petrochemical cracking, aerosol propelling, or pharmaceutical intermediates demands finer grade control and impurity profiling, which raises both cost and final market value. Packaging that meets international pressurized cylinder certification or traceable container requirements increases labor and compliance expense, reflected in transaction pricing. Consistency and reliability requirements for industrial scale process plants justify higher contract prices for certified purity, predictable scheduling, and traceable logistics.
N-butane trade flows closely trace capacity expansions and downstream demand cycles. North America and the Middle East lead in surplus production owing to gas liquids infrastructure build-out. East Asia acts as a major import center, driven by petrochemical and fuel-blending demand. EU and Japan feature as net importers, with dependency on pipeline or seaborne supply.
| Region | Key Factors |
|---|---|
| US | Shale gas liquids extraction supports abundant supply; prices mirror domestic gas and oil fundamentals, regulatory compliance for transportation varies by state. |
| EU | Import dependency exposes market to global logistics and energy import dynamics; prices react to policy shifts and seasonal inventory policies. |
| JP | Stable long-term contracts dominate imports to ensure process plant supply stability; contingent on regional LNG and LPG availability. |
| IN | Growing petrochemical sector underpins rising demand; import reliance increases price risk exposure to international shipping and FX movement. |
| CN | Integrated refinery and chemical complexes serve as anchor consumption points; government policy and domestic resource allocation influence price path. |
Industry outlooks see moderate upward price pressure for prime chemical grade n-butane given expanding downstream derivative demand in Asia and constrained refinery expansions in Europe. Feedstock volatility persists from shifting global energy flows and decarbonization strategy changes. Market watchers expect tighter grade-specific spreads, especially for certified high-purity or value-added packaging, as process plant quality demands sharpen.
Analysis synthesizes internal procurement records, published spot benchmarks, industry association market reports, and peer manufacturer releases. Trend projections incorporate feedstock hedging data, downstream demand planning, and observed supply chain disruptions. Short-term price signals come from monthly spot market tracking, while medium-term forecasts reference contract settlement behavior and capacity announcement timings.
Asset restarts after plant turnarounds and scheduled maintenance contribute to periodic supply surges. New capacity entrants in the Middle East and North America continue to trigger price recalibration. Short-term imbalances often arise from port congestion, weather disruptions, and shipping availability constraints. Cross-regional arbitrage can flatten some price gaps when logistics allow opportunistic trades.
Recent alignment on GHS labeling and hazardous materials transportation standards in key markets increases documentation and packaging requirements. Importer registration and pre-shipment inspection rules in select Asian markets generate additional administrative steps with each consignment. Ongoing review of downstream emission limits, especially for flaring and venting, may prompt modifications to process designs or reporting routines.
We refine internal quality assurance to match latest downstream standards for critical process users. Traceability campaigns enhance batch records and documentation systems for regulatory and customer audit readiness. Diversification of shipping routes, packaging assets, and inventory warehousing acts to buffer short-term delivery risks. Feedstock sourcing continually balances cost and reliability, with a preference for longstanding partners and flexible contract volumes to ride out volatile cycles.
N-Butane produced at our facility supplies a defined range of industrial sectors. Key application segments include:
| Application | Recommended Grade(s) | Key Grade Sensitivities |
|---|---|---|
| Aerosol Propellants | High Purity, Low Sulfur | Residue, odor, and sulfur content can directly affect final product odor, valve performance, and consumer acceptance. |
| Mixed LPG/Fuel Gas | Commercial, Technical | Blend composition and volatility influence vapor pressure, flammability, and combustion profile in end uses. |
| Petrochemical Feedstock | Feedstock, Naphta-Equivalent | Olefins, moisture, and inorganic impurities alter feed behavior in cracking or dehydrogenation units. Contaminants can reduce catalyst cycle or impact yield. |
| Calibration Gases | Analytical/Reagent Grade | Total hydrocarbon and trace impurities must meet instrument supplier requirements. Minor contaminants can interfere with gas phase calibration curves. |
Production prioritizes the following attributes depending on industry context:
Each production request must specify primary end use. This enables the production and QC teams to select suitable blending tanks, purification trains, and process route. For example, aerosol production runs require separate odor management protocols versus standard fuel grades.
Regional and sector regulations govern allowable sulfur, benzene, and olefin content particularly in consumer or environmental exposure scenarios. National standards, FEA/Aerosol, and ASTM grades diverge in purity and contaminant thresholds. Pre-shipment documentation always references agreed mandatory standards.
Operations reviews the impurity profile necessary for batch acceptance:
Contracted quantity and price negotiation often set the feasible grade for operational planning. Tank farm scheduling, dedicated pipeline batches, and purification stage allocation all hinge on delivery scale. Smaller demand can allow for batch isolation and high-spec purification, large bulk orders often use standard, high-throughput streams. The cost-to-quality tradeoff remains important; some users justify high purity due to sensitive formulations, others accept broader grades for cost reasons.
Prior to full-scale production, test delivery enables joint validation (customer and manufacturer labs) versus stated requirements. Discrepancies or specification mismatches can prompt process tuning, additional analytical steps, or alternative route selection. This approach manages risk and confirms operational compatibility before full order commitment.
Our N-Butane production meets internationally recognized quality management system standards. Regular on-site and off-site audits confirm that both production and documentation methods align with the requirements of ISO 9001 and similar frameworks. These audits evaluate each step from raw material receipt to packaging. Their purpose is to identify any risk in process stability or traceability that could impact batch consistency. The scope of these certifications covers all handling and storage areas, with a focus on continuous process improvements based on audit findings and sector-specific risk reviews.
Certification requirements for N-Butane depend directly on customer application, regulatory region, and downstream processing control schemes. Automotive, pharmaceutical, and aerosol-grade N-Butane each follow distinct product-specific validation and release protocols. For instance, automotive-grade may require compliance with specific hydrocarbon and olefin content standards defined by regional fuel regulations, while propellant use involves EN ISO and ASTM batch-release test criteria. Internal release standards for impurity content and moisture are grade-sensitive and are regularly updated in line with new customer and regulatory requirements. All test and release values are verified using validated analytical instruments with documented calibration and maintenance records.
Every batch of N-Butane comes with a batch-specific certificate of analysis (COA) detailing grade, analytical method references, date of manufacture, and conformance to customer specification. Product safety, transport, and usage documentation are regularly updated according to the latest GHS and local legislative requirements. Documentation includes safety data sheets, transport classification, REACH registration support, and essential traceability records for audit reviews. Archived records support retrospective investigations or regulatory inspection with full electronic traceability, in keeping with good manufacturing and distribution practice.
Long-term partnerships rely not only on product purity but on reliable delivery and clear communication about manufacturing status. Production scheduling for N-Butane adapts to customer forecasts, seasonality of feedstock markets, and planned facility maintenance cycles. If a customer faces variable demand, production teams work closely with commercial departments to build a rolling inventory buffer or adjust shipment schedules. Priority is given to contracted partners, particularly during peak demand or feedstock volatility. Direct lines between technical, quality, and logistics units on both sides support quick troubleshooting if unexpected issues arise.
Feedstock supply risk receives continuous assessment to pre-empt disruptions in core N-Butane production. Sourcing prioritizes suppliers with transparent quality and safety records and tracks ALL significant inputs for traceability. Multi-stream purification at the facility removes oxygenates, sulfur species, and moisture, with process analytics monitoring every stage. Dispatch schedules reflect both just-in-time and inventory-based models, shaped by customer input and regional delivery infrastructure conditions. During plant maintenance, advance production runs ensure customer orders are filled without compromise. Batch-to-batch consistency, especially for specification-sensitive grades, is verified prior to shipment based on current release criteria.
Sample requests typically address either new formulation qualification or periodic vendor review. The process begins with a technical evaluation of intended application and downstream compatibility. Sample quantities and container specifications are agreed case-by-case, based on safety, volatility, and transit performance. Each sample receives a dedicated QC release, logged with source batch, test results, and chain of custody from production to recipient. Handling protocols for hazardous samples align with established local and global regulations. Prospective production-scale cooperation depends on satisfactory sample validation and audit outcomes.
Cooperation modes range from long-term supply contracts, spot purchasing, and toll processing agreements, to custom batch production for niche applications. Customers with variable requirements can access multi-tier pricing and supply models tailored to their usage profile. For industries requiring contingency storage, inventory agreements support sudden demand spikes or geopolitical disruption. Technical teams are available for joint review of supply parameters to refine logistics, packaging configurations, and end-use compatibility. Direct access to in-house engineers and compliance officers enhances transparency on both quality and delivery data.
In the production of N-Butane, recent R&D centers around process intensification, catalyst improvement for isomerization, and advanced separation techniques. Manufacturers focus on minimizing energy input during fractionation by exploring optimized column designs and pressure-swing adsorption. Many teams are refining dehydrogenation catalysts, targeting increased yield for downstream products such as butadiene or maleic anhydride. Handling of trace impurities—moisture, sulfur compounds, and unsaturated hydrocarbons—remains a persistent area of technical refinement, as end-use specifications for polymer and aerosol industries require narrow impurity profiles.
Growth in high-purity butane grades aligns with demand from specialty chemical synthesis, especially for low-olefin and low-aromatics requirements in pharmaceutical or electronics processes. Butane's utility in fuel blending, refrigerant preparation, and as a feedstock for high-value intermediates continues to push manufacturers to align process setups to serve both bulk and specialty needs. Battery component manufacturing and advanced propellant blends present new application spaces, with strict purity and handling requirements.
Maintaining batch-to-batch consistency, especially for high-purity and specialty grades, requires stringent process control from feed selection through to final purification. Vent stream management and off-gas recycling present both regulatory and operational challenges, calling for effective integration of flare minimization and VOC capture systems. Among recent breakthroughs, modular process skids and real-time online analytics enable faster grade switching and reduced off-spec downtime. Adoption of robust material selection for pipelines and vessels reduces catalyst poisoning incidents and limits corrosion risks in the presence of trace acidic impurities.
Demand projections indicate steady volume growth for flexible grades, with most expansion driven by petrochemical complexes in Asia and the Middle East. Downstream industries such as synthetic rubber, lubricants, and polymer resin blending continue to provide stable offtake, while regulatory shifts in aerosol propellants and low-GWP refrigerants may influence grade specification and output allocation. The market balance is sensitive to upstream refinery capacity expansions, shifts in natural gas liquids recovery, and transportation constraints for long-haul shipping.
Manufacturers adopt process intensification steps both to improve carbon efficiency and to cut utility consumption. Integrating membrane-based separations for impurity trimming is gaining ground, especially in facilities supplying electronics or pharmaceutical segments. Digitalization of batch records and predictive control models for fractionation columns lead to tighter process windows and reduced energy consumption. In-process online GC and advanced sensor deployments allow for near real-time release-to-shipment of compliant lots, closing quality control loops faster.
Sustainable N-Butane production depends heavily on optimized flare systems, efficient heat integration, and recycling of internal streams. Some production sites now evaluate bio-based butane routes or incorporate partial renewable feedstock blends where feasible. Closed-loop operation reduces fugitive emissions. Continuous monitoring, process water recycling, and catalyst life extension strategies collectively support long-term environmental compliance. Grade-specific production may dictate additional controls; for example, ultra-high-purity routes require extra solvent recovery and advanced treatment for off-spec streams.
Direct access to process engineers and product specialists helps align supplied butane specification with intended application. Application-specific advice considers grade sensitivity, impurity compatibility, packaging preferences, and logistical constraints. Tailor-made lab analyses and compatibility trials are provided upon request for new or critical applications requiring tighter impurity control or non-standard delivery.
Support extends to integration testing for customer-specific uses, especially where downstream polymerization, alkylation, or refrigeration efficiency depends on narrow boiling range and impurity content. Guidance is offered on safe handling, customized storage solutions, and transfer protocols for both cylinder and bulk formats. Where local regulations affect storage or processing, technical staff assist with required documentation and risk assessments tailored to the customer’s plant and product grade.
Quality assurance covers lot traceability, accessible CoA documentation, and rapid batch investigation services if performance issues arise. Ongoing feedback mechanisms ensure that customer insight is integrated into process improvement efforts. Reliability of supply, transparent communication around delivery schedules, and timely technical intervention are prioritized. For specialty and critical application grades, manufacturers maintain readiness for process recalibration and re-certification in response to shifts in end-use requirements or regulatory changes.
As a producer of N-Butane, we work with full oversight of every batch from reaction vessel through final packaging. Our operations integrate advanced distillation with in-line analytical controls, supporting diverse industrial requirements where N-Butane plays a central role. The focus remains on consistent output and strict process discipline, resulting in a material relied on by refineries, petrochemical operations, and downstream industries worldwide.
N-Butane enters the market with a well-defined application profile. The gas sees frequent use in refinery alkylation, as a feedstock for butadiene and synthetic rubber production. Aerosol propellants, refrigerants, and fuel blending also demand a steady supply. These applications impose specific criteria—purity, composition, and moisture content—that we track closely through lab-based routine analysis and process vigilance.
Maintaining batch-to-batch consistency means relying on continuous GC and moisture monitoring during both refining and packaging. Each tank release aligns with documented test data mapping to relevant industry protocols. Field audits confirm process reliability, giving downstream users confidence that finished products won’t deviate. Our internal quality ethos keeps material properties inside specification, even as seasonal or raw feed variations occur in the production line.
Our N-Butane leaves the facility in cylinders, bulk tanks, and ISO containers. The packaging line responds to both high-volume industrial demands and calibrated needs for R&D or smaller-scale production. Filling operations utilize closed-loop gas transfer to prevent external contamination and manage vapor loss. On-site loading infrastructure supports multimodal logistics, with tank truck, rail, and port dispatch for domestic and export movement. Each shipment incorporates traceable batch records and moisture-certified valves or fittings when required by the application.
Purchasers working at scale often need technical pairing before the first shipment arrives. Our teams handle compatibility checks for piping, vaporizer, and mixing equipment to ensure seamless handling. Guidance covers safe unloading, transition from other hydrocarbon gases, and adaptation to particular alkylation or chemical synthesis conditions. Buyers selecting for purity, BTU value, or specialized end-use can expect direct access to both operations and quality laboratory staff.
By controlling every stage—from crude feed selection to packaging closeout—we give procurement teams a more stable contract base and fewer interruptions. Distributors and manufacturers using our N-Butane capitalize on predictable product flow, fast problem resolution, and access to consistent physical stock held in on-site and partner terminals. Market conditions often require quick adjustments; in response, we coordinate closely with supply chain managers to time deliveries and maintain continuity, even during periods of feedstock volatility. Each relationship is based on mutual process understanding and steady communication rather than transactional exchanges, supporting longer-term supply planning and project execution.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Consistency | Batch-level GC and moisture validation |
| Packaging Options | Cylinders, bulk tanks, ISO containers |
| Application Segments | Alkylation, synthetic rubber, aerosol, fuel blending |
| Technical Interface | Engineering and lab support for integration, troubleshooting |
| Supply Chain Reach | Tank truck, rail, and freight forwarding |
Our direct production of N-Butane reflects a commitment to both reliability and transparency. Standard purity levels for our N-Butane remain above 99.5% by volume, a benchmark built into every stage of our processing. By focusing investment in distillation and purification, we achieve consistent purity outcomes without cutting corners. Close monitoring and repeat batch analysis ensure our customers receive the quality they expect for critical downstream applications, such as aerosol propellant, refrigerant supply, and specialty chemical synthesis.
Pentanes, particularly iso-pentane and n-pentane, show up most consistently as trace impurities. Propane and heavier hydrocarbons such as hexanes may occur at much lower levels. Small volumes of iso-butane (2-methylpropane), ethane, and propane arise naturally due to overlaps in boiling points during fractional distillation from raw feedstocks. Inert gases like nitrogen and oxygen remain at trace levels, rarely exceeding 20 parts per million combined when bottles leave our facility. Sulfur compounds such as hydrogen sulfide attract special scrutiny. Regulatory limits on total sulfur drive our attention to desulfurization, and we record each batch’s total sulfur to prevent equipment corrosion and unwanted catalyst poisoning further down the supply chain.
Moisture represents another important contaminant. Through well-maintained drying steps, we keep water content below 10 ppm—critical for customers operating in refrigeration and chemical synthesis where water triggers product degradation or equipment problems. Our process equipment relies mostly on stainless steel and precise condenser controls to minimize metal-catalyzed side reactions and accidental impurity formation.
Even at low concentrations, certain impurities impact critical performance outcomes. For example, iso-butane and pentanes can push vapor pressures outside of required specifications for aerosol and fuel-gas blend applications. Excess moisture raises freezing risks and can foul downstream purification columns. Sulfur compounds not only threaten catalyst life but also introduce odor concerns, especially in household and consumer product applications. All of these demand a manufacturer’s ongoing vigilance, which is why our laboratory invests in regular ASTM-aligned gas chromatography, moisture analysis using Karl Fischer titration, and sulfur determination with certified analyzers.
Our customers receive comprehensive batch certificates with each shipment. These detail our purity results, main impurity content, and total sulfur values, supported by up-to-date calibration and internal quality audits. This recordkeeping gives process engineers, QA experts, and procurement teams direct intelligence on what enters their facilities.
Where special process demands arise, such as ultra-low sulfur for catalyst-sensitive operations or reduced C5+ tails for laboratory research, our engineering group supports tailored process adjustments. Close dialogue with users leads to custom solutions, not compromises, backed by scale-up experience and direct accountability from our factory floor.
Consistent purity and tight impurity control mean less troubleshooting for our customers and a smoother, more predictable supply chain. Using real-world data and end-user feedback, we optimize every shipment. This factory-direct relationship keeps the conversation technical, honest, and close to the practical realities of industrial chemistry.
N-Butane is a commodity we ship in volumes matching industrial demand rather than retail scale. Our minimum order quantity aligns with the size of road tankers, ISO tanks, or railcars. This scale reduces handling hazards, ensures safer logistics, and lets us focus on supplying serious industrial users – oil refineries, petrochemical plants, and aerosol manufacturers, for example. By focusing on bulk volumes, we commit our resources to maintain stringent product quality throughout the supply chain. Orders below our standard truck or tank size rarely deliver value for either side due to transportation cost and product handling risks.
Pricing for N-Butane swings with global feedstock costs, regional supply, and freight rates. As a direct manufacturer, our advantage comes from continuous production and optimized logistics. We calculate price offers based on raw material indexes, energy costs, and up-to-the-minute market feedback. Quarterly agreements often reflect longer-term stability while spot orders see more volatility. Large contracts bring volume discounts because operational overhead per ton drops as batch sizes grow and shipment coordination runs more efficiently. Transparent communication with procurement teams is essential; we review pipeline and shipping schedules alongside requested delivery points to keep pricing competitive and fair.
Our lead time for N-Butane starts with live inventory at our production storage spheres. For longstanding customers with scheduled call-offs, we can schedule loadings within a matter of days after mutual confirmation. New customers usually start with qualification: our team coordinates documentation, checks equipment compatibility, and clarifies logistics details to ensure safety from the outset. Once paperwork clears and credit arrangements settle, we book production slots tightly aligned with your preferred shipping method—be it road, rail, or sea. In peak season or at times of unexpected refinery events, lead times may stretch as we adjust capacity to match high demand without compromising on safety protocols or product consistency.
Speaking from decades in chemical manufacturing, these operational details drive both consistency and trust. Minimum order limits prevent small, fragmented shipments that disrupt supply efficiency and heighten the risk of contamination. Firm pricing methods and open dialogue guard both parties from volatile shocks, reducing surprises in long-term operations. Lead time accuracy is more than process discipline; at scale, missed schedules have real downstream effects—halting construction deadlines or disrupting the blending of downstream products. Every batch we supply supports larger production lines downstream, so reliable delivery creates measurable gains for all partners.
To bridge gaps in market conditions, we offer rolling supply agreements and stockpiling options where on-site storage capacity exists. These arrangements can smooth out sharp changes in demand and keep end-users buffered from unpredictable external shocks. Our technical teams consult with clients on tank design, transfer hose compatibility, and on-site safety checks, minimizing risk during offloading. By refining every aspect of our logistics pipeline, only a handful of process steps separate product manufacture from verified delivery.
Manufacturing N-Butane at commercial scale means our production process, transportation expertise, and customer collaboration all blend into every shipment. Our goal is not only to supply material but to build procurement confidence you can rely on, batch after batch, season after season.
Our experience manufacturing and shipping N-Butane has shaped how we select packaging and prepare regulatory documentation. N-Butane, with its high vapor pressure and flammability, demands packaging that guarantees containment and safety during every step of transport. Standard options coming directly from our facilities include high-pressure seamless steel cylinders, bulk ISO tanks, and pressurized tank trailers. Each option supports a range of volumes, starting with cylinders for manageable quantities and extending up to bulk transport for commercial scale.
Our steel cylinders, typically ranging from 50 liters up, are designed for operational safety, regular requalification, and leak-tight performance. These units use valve systems compatible with industry filling standards and feature clear markings for content identification. ISO tanks from our plant conform to UN portable tank requirements, built to endure international and cross-border rail, sea, and road movement. We leverage dedicated tankers in our own transport fleet for domestic customers needing high-volume supply, with built-in pressure relief and monitoring systems. Each packaging solution passes regular hydrostatic tests and inspections to fit the latest engineering standards for pressure vessels carrying liquefied gases.
Our technical and logistics team understands the paperwork doesn’t just tick a box—it assures traceability, acceptance, and legal movement through customs checkpoints and DOT inspections. With every batch shipped, we include the Safety Data Sheet prepared to globally harmonized standards. Certificates of Analysis are attached for each shipment, summarizing test results for purity, moisture, and contaminants by our in-house QC lab.
For chemicals classed as dangerous goods like N-Butane (UN 1011), transport documents cite the proper shipping name, UN number, hazard class (Flammable Gas, 2.1), packing group, and emergency response code. Our logistics staff ensures full alignment with ADR, IMDG, DOT, and IATA regulations—documentation is matched to the mode of transport and destination. Inspection certificates, compliance declarations, lot traceability, and full MSDS in target language come as standard. Regulatory registration for shipment across borders is handled pre-dispatch, using our own credentials and export authorizations.
Original labeling on every cylinder, tanker, and ISO tank matches GHS requirements—clear hazard pictograms, signal words, and handling instructions are applied directly at our filling station. Valve guards, tamper-evident seals, and QR-coded identification streamline receipt and acceptance on your end while supporting emergency traceability. We submit pre-transport documentation to carriers and custom brokers, allowing for streamlined transit through major discharge ports and regulatory checkpoints.
Every decision about filling, sealing, and certifying a N-Butane shipment reflects practical lessons from years in chemical logistics. Compliance is non-negotiable; documentation and packaging start from our plant floor, not afterthoughts at a depot. Our technical advisors work with end users and carriers to resolve any compliance questions before loading begins. We maintain a direct line between the plant and your dock for technical support.
Safety and transparency remain at the forefront. With N-Butane’s risk profile, regulatory shifts can happen quickly—our on-site compliance group monitors updates to ADR and maritime codes, moving rapidly to refresh labeling, documentation, or added physical safeguards if required. We hold complete documentation sets for each lot and maintain records for post-delivery review.
Shipping N-Butane from our production facility gives you packaging, documents, and peace of mind that all steps have been managed at the source, reflecting years of hands-on experience and dedication to compliance.
For product inquiries, sample requests, quotations or after-sales support, please feel free to contact me directly via sales9@bouling-chem.com, +8615651039172 or WhatsApp: +8615651039172
