Decane, a straight-chain alkane hydrocarbon with 10 carbon atoms, holds relevance in everyday life due to its use as a component in various products. Decane is commonly found in fuels, solvents, and lubricants. Its physical properties, such as its volatility and flammability, make it suitable for use in a wide range of industries. Additionally, decane serves as a valuable reference compound in scientific research and testing. Despite its relatively limited direct consumer applications, the presence of decane in various essential products underscores its significance in modern life.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Decane, a hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C10H22, has various commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used as a solvent in the manufacturing of paints, coatings, and varnishes. Decane is also utilized as a fuel additive in the aviation industry to improve the combustion properties of jet fuels. Additionally, it is employed in the production of plasticizers for PVC.
In terms of drug and medication applications, decane is not commonly used for pharmaceutical purposes. However, it is occasionally incorporated into topical formulations as an emulsifier or solubilizing agent. Decane has shown promise in research as a drug delivery system due to its ability to enhance the permeability of drugs across biological membranes. However, more studies are needed to validate its effectiveness in this capacity.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Decane is a colorless, odorless liquid at room temperature. It has a faint, gasoline-like odor that is not easily detectable by most individuals without specific training.
Decane has a molar mass of approximately 142.29 g/mol and a density of about 0.7302 g/cm^3. Comparatively, common food items such as sugar and salt have lower molar masses and densities, making decane significantly lighter and less compact.
The melting point of decane is around -29.7°C and its boiling point is approximately 174.1°C. In comparison, common food items like butter and chocolate have much higher melting points and boiling points, making decane a relatively more volatile substance.
Decane is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents, and it has a relatively low viscosity. This contrasts with common food items like sugar and salt, which are highly soluble in water and have a much higher viscosity, making decane more fluid-like in comparison.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Decane, a hydrocarbon compound with the chemical formula C10H22, is primarily produced through the process of fractional distillation of petroleum. During this process, crude oil is heated to separate the various hydrocarbons based on their boiling points, ultimately yielding Decane as one of the fractions.
Decane can also be produced synthetically through the catalytic hydrogenation of other hydrocarbons, such as decene or cyclohexene. This method allows for the targeted production of Decane in laboratories or industrial settings, providing a reliable source of the compound for various applications.
In terms of procurement and transportation, Decane is typically purchased from chemical suppliers in liquid form. It can be transported in bulk quantities via tank trucks or railcars, ensuring efficient distribution to various industries that utilize Decane as a solvent, fuel additive, or intermediate in chemical synthesis. The handling and transportation of Decane require adherence to strict safety protocols due to its flammable nature.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for Decane include its flammability, which poses a fire hazard, as well as its potential for causing skin and eye irritation upon contact. When handling Decane, proper ventilation should be ensured to prevent inhalation of vapors, and personal protective equipment such as gloves and goggles should be worn to minimize exposure to the substance. It is also important to store Decane in a cool, dry place away from sources of ignition to prevent accidents.
Hazard statements for Decane include “May be harmful if swallowed” and “Causes skin and eye irritation.” Additionally, Decane is classified as a flammable liquid and can form explosive mixtures with air. It is important to keep Decane away from heat, sparks, and open flames to avoid fire hazards. In case of ingestion, seek medical attention immediately and do not induce vomiting.
Precautionary statements for Decane include “Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces – No smoking” and “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.” It is important to handle Decane with care and follow proper safety protocols to minimize the risk of accidents or exposure. In case of accidental release, contain the spill and prevent it from spreading to minimize environmental impact.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Decane, a hydrocarbon with the formula C10H22, presents intriguing research directions in various fields. In material science, studies may focus on its use as a solvent for polymers or a building block for advanced materials. In chemistry, investigations could explore its reactivity in organic synthesis or its potential as a fuel additive.
Furthermore, in environmental science, research efforts may examine the impact of decane emissions on air quality and atmospheric chemistry. In the energy sector, studies might investigate decane’s suitability as a component in fuel blends or its combustion properties. In biology, the biological activities and toxicological effects of decane could be areas of interest for further exploration.
Overall, the versatile nature of decane offers a wide range of research opportunities across disciplines. Understanding its properties, reactions, and applications could lead to significant advancements in various fields, making it a promising subject for future investigation.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to Decane based upon molecular structure is Nonane. Nonane is a nine-carbon alkane with the chemical formula C9H20. It is a straight-chain alkane with a branched isomer known as Isooctane, which is commonly used as a reference for octane ratings in gasoline.
Another compound similar to Decane is Undecane. Undecane contains eleven carbon atoms in its chain and has the chemical formula C11H24. It is an alkane with various isomers, including 2-Methylundecane and 3-Ethylundecane, which exhibit different physical and chemical properties.
Dodecane is yet another compound similar to Decane in terms of molecular structure. Dodecane has twelve carbon atoms in its chain and has the chemical formula C12H26. It is a straight-chain alkane with various isomers, such as 2-Methyldodecane and 3-Ethyldodecane, which differ in their boiling points and other properties.
