Petroleum Ether

Basic Information of Petroleum Ether

Petroleum Ether (CAS No. 8032-32-4) is a colorless, highly flammable liquid with a characteristic gasoline-like odor. Its low boiling points and excellent solvency for non-polar substances make it indispensable for extraction, purification, and cleaning processes where a volatile and residue-free solvent is needed.

CAS No.:	8032-32-4
EC No.:	232-453-7
Appearance:	Transparent Liquid
Density:	0.77 g/mL at 20 °C
RIDADR:	UN 1146 3/PG 2
Chemical Structure:

Tailored Quality: Petroleum Ether by Boiling Range

Petroleum Ether 30-60°C

• Description: The lightest fraction, characterized by its very low boiling point and high volatility.

• Key Applications: Ideal for applications requiring rapid evaporation, such as quick drying extractions, thin-layer chromatography (TLC), and as a solvent in volatile formulations.

Petroleum Ether 40-60°C

• Description: A slightly heavier fraction than 30-60°C, offering a balance between volatility and solvency power.

• Key Applications: A commonly used laboratory solvent for extractions (e.g., fats and oils), chromatography (column and paper), and as a general-purpose solvent in various analytical and synthetic procedures.

Petroleum Ether 60-80°C

• Description: A higher boiling range fraction, providing increased solvency and reduced evaporation rate compared to lighter grades.

• Key Applications: Suitable for industrial cleaning and degreasing, as a solvent in paints, coatings, and adhesives, and for extractions requiring slightly less volatility.

All our grades of Petroleum Ether undergo stringent quality control, ensuring high purity, low residue on evaporation, and minimal aromatic content. A comprehensive Certificate of Analysis (CoA) accompanies every batch, confirming its specific boiling range and purity parameters.

General Applications of Petroleum Ether

Petroleum Ether is a light hydrocarbon solvent fraction widely used where rapid evaporation, low polarity, and clean extraction performance are required. For a broader overview of hydrocarbon materials and industrial roles, refer to our industrial hydrocarbons guide.

• Extraction Solvent: Highly effective for extracting fats, oils, waxes, and resins from natural products and industrial materials. For solvent performance considerations in extraction systems, see hydrocarbon solvents for industrial cleaning and extraction.

• Chromatography: Widely used as a mobile phase or eluent in thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and column chromatography where low polarity is required.

• Industrial Cleaning & Degreasing: Used for cleaning machinery, precision components, and electronic parts, providing fast drying and minimal residue.

• Laboratory Reagent: A common non-polar solvent for chemical reactions, dilutions, and extraction procedures in analytical and research laboratories.

• Rubber & Polymer Processing: Utilized as a process solvent for selected rubber compounds and polymer systems. In applications requiring single-component light hydrocarbons, users may also evaluate n-hexane.

For structured guidance on selecting the appropriate hydrocarbon solvent for your process, review our hydrocarbon solvent selection guide.

• Robust Global Logistics: Our extensive network ensures efficient and secure delivery of Petroleum Ether worldwide, in full compliance with international shipping regulations for flammable liquids.

• Commitment to Safety & Compliance: We adhere to the highest safety standards for handling, storage, and transportation of this highly flammable solvent, providing complete Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and necessary dangerous goods documentation.

• Dedicated Customer Support: Our knowledgeable team is always available to provide technical insights and assist with your ordering and logistical requirements.

Hazards Classification

• GHS Classification: Flammable Liquid (GHS02), Health Hazard (GHS08), Environmental Hazard (GHS09)

• Hazard Statements: Highly flammable liquid and vapor; may cause drowsiness or dizziness; may cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure; toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects.

• UN Number: UN 1268

• Hazard Class: 3 (Flammable Liquids)

• Packing Group: II