Isobutane – Definition and use

Isobutane means the simplest alkane, which contains carbon and is used as a refrigerant fluid. This gas, which is identified as R600a, is obtained by fractional distillation of oil and natural gas from n-butane through isomerization processes using Lewis acids as catalysts. At room temperature and pressure, a colourless, odourless gas is easy to liquefy.

Isobutane - Uses

Isobutane gas is used as a refrigerant and propellant fluid to replace banned freons, but its main industrial use is the production of base chemicals such as propylene oxide. When mixed with n-butane, it is used as an automotive fuel and as a fuel for both domestic and industrial uses, as well as to power stoves and camping lamps. In additional it is used as a diluent in the production of high-density polyethylene.

Butane and isobutane - Differences

Many people are familiar with butane, an organic compound that consists of isomers, one of which is isobutane. Both gases are hydrocarbon compounds since only carbon and oxygen atoms contribute to their formation, and both butane and isobutane have the same chemical formula i.e. C4H10 and the same molar mass values.

S are flammable gases and suitable as fuels, and the main difference is that butane is a linear or branched molecule, while isobutane is present only in branched form. The main source of butane is oil, and this gas results from its refining. The two structural isomers are n-butane and isobutane, and the term butane is used to describe either one or their mixture.

Isobutane is, therefore, a structural isomer of butane whose chemical formula is C4H10 and molar mass is 58 g/mol. It is an alkane of branched structure with tetrahedral geometry, colourless and odourless unlike n-butane.

Because of its chemical characteristics, isobutane is used as a refrigerant and since it does not affect the ozone layer, it is a viable alternative to CFC hydrocarbons used in refrigerators. Both mixtures, butane and isobutane, are hydrocarbon compounds.

Settala Gas and hydrocarbon refrigerants

For more than forty years, we have specialized in the production of hydrocarbon gases. Whatever your request is, you can be sure that we will be able to offer competitive solutions and quick and efficient service in full compliance with regulations.

In addition, we are a leading manufacturer of 1l cylinders filled with R600 and R290. The 1l capacity, due to its convenience, is used in the maintenance of refrigerators and air conditioning systems.

Safe and natural, the range of hydrocarbon refrigerants is perfect for a wide selection of air conditioning and refrigeration systems. These natural organic gases are not produced by synthesis but through simple physical processes.

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