What is a Hexane?

Hexane (chemical formula: C₆H₁₄) is a straight-chain saturated hydrocarbon belonging to the alkane family. At room temperature, it is a colorless, odorless, and highly volatile liquid with low solubility in water but excellent solvency for many organic substances. It is commonly obtained from crude oil or natural gas through fractional distillation. Industrially, hexane is widely used as a solvent, especially for extracting edible oils (e.g., soybean oil), and in the production of adhesives, paints, and rubber products. In laboratories, it serves as a solvent for lipid extraction and purification procedures. Among its isomers, n-hexane is the most commonly used form.

From a safety perspective, prolonged exposure through inhalation or skin contact can cause neurotoxicity. Therefore, proper ventilation and protective equipment are essential during handling. Hexane is also highly flammable, requiring strict precautions near heat or open flames.

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