About This Product
n-Hexadecane (CAS 544-76-3, C16H34) is the saturated C16 hydrocarbon with an unbranched chain, sometimes called cetane. This grade contains at least 95 wt% n-hexadecane, boils between 283 °C and 290 °C and has a density of 760-780 kg/m³ at 20 °C. Bromine index is limited to 50 mg Br/100 g, and aromatics, total sulphur and water to 50 ppm each.
A high boiling point and low reactivity make it a useful non-polar solvent and reaction medium in organic synthesis, and laboratories use it as a gas chromatography standard. Engine test laboratories blend it with a low-cetane component to make the reference fuels that calibrate diesel ignition-quality testers. It is also a model hydrocarbon in biodegradation research and a solvent or additive in coatings, inks, plastics, rubber and cosmetics.
Anyone using it as a cetane reference fuel or analytical standard should confirm that 95 wt% content meets their test method. The liquid freezes a little below normal room temperature, so drums held in cold stores may need gentle warming before use. It is classified as an aspiration hazard if swallowed; the safety data sheet should be read before handling.
