High-Purity Solvents, Polyurethane (PU) and Resin

Cyclopentane

Cyclopentane (CAS No: 287-92-3) is a highly flammable alicyclic hydrocarbon with the molecular formula $C_5H_{10}$. It appears as a colorless, mobile liquid with a characteristic petroleum-like odor. As a member of the cycloalkane family, it consists of a five-membered carbon ring, which imparts unique physical properties compared to its linear counterpart, n-pentane.

In recent decades, cyclopentane has gained global prominence as the primary blowing agent for rigid polyurethane (PU) and polyisocyanurate (PIR) foams. This shift was largely driven by international environmental mandates, such as the Montreal Protocol, necessitating the phase-out of ozone-depleting substances like CFC-11 and HCFC-141b. Cyclopentane stands out due to its zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and negligible Global Warming Potential (GWP). Its chemical stability and favorable boiling point make it an ideal choice for insulation materials, providing high thermal resistance and structural integrity. However, due to its low flash point, industrial handling requires stringent safety protocols and specialized explosion-proof equipment.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

Environmental Sustainability: Offers zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and an extremely low Global Warming Potential (GWP < 11), making it a green alternative to halogenated hydrocarbons.
Superior Thermal Insulation: Foams blown with cyclopentane exhibit low thermal conductivity (lambda value), ensuring high energy efficiency in refrigeration and construction.
Cost-Effectiveness: Provides a more economical solution compared to high-cost Hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs) while maintaining competitive performance.
Excellent Material Compatibility: It is compatible with a wide range of polyether and polyester polyols, facilitating easy integration into existing PU formulations.
Mechanical Integrity: Enhances the compressive strength and dimensional stability of rigid foam structures.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

Molecular Weight: 70.13 g/mol.
Boiling Point: Approximately 49.3°C (120.7°F) at 1013 hPa, allowing for efficient vaporization during the foaming process.
Flash Point: Below -37°C (-34.6°F), classifying it as a Class IA flammable liquid.
Density: 0.745 g/cm³ at 20°C, providing a high vapor pressure that supports excellent foam expansion.
Solubility: Insoluble in water but highly miscible with most organic solvents including ethers, alcohols, and ketones.
Vapor Pressure: Approximately 45 kPa at 20°C.
Safety Profile: Requires Class 1, Division 1 electrical standards for processing areas due to its wide flammability limits (1.1% to 8.7% by volume in air).

Download Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

Practical industry uses

Applications

Refrigeration Industry: Used as the primary blowing agent for the insulation of domestic refrigerators, commercial freezers, and cold-storage units.
Building and Construction: Utilized in the production of rigid PIR/PUR sandwich panels, spray foams, and block foams for roof and wall insulation.
Appliance Manufacturing: Employed in the insulation of water heaters, vending machines, and portable coolers.
Automotive Sector: Used in specialized molded foam components and headliners where weight reduction and insulation are required.
Industrial Pipes: Integrated into the manufacturing of pre-insulated piping systems for district heating and oil/gas transport.