butane

Butane is a highly flammable, colorless, and odorless hydrocarbon gas belonging to the alkane family with the chemical formula C₄H₁₀. It is a natural gas liquid (NGL) obtained primarily from natural gas processing and petroleum refining. Butane exists in two isomeric forms: n-butane (normal butane) and isobutane (methylpropane). These isomers share the same molecular formula but have different structural arrangements, leading to distinct physical and chemical properties. n-Butane is a straight-chain molecule, while isobutane is branched. This structural difference gives isobutane a higher octane rating and makes it the preferred isomer for gasoline blending and as a refrigerant (R-600a).

In industrial applications, butane serves as a fuel source in lighters and portable stoves, a propellant in aerosol products, a feedstock for the production of ethylene and butadiene in the petrochemical industry, and a refrigerant in domestic and commercial cooling systems. Its high energy density and clean-burning characteristics make it a versatile energy carrier. The global butane market is driven by demand from the petrochemical sector, residential heating, and the growing adoption of LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) as a cleaner alternative to coal and wood in developing regions. Safety is a paramount concern due to its flammability, requiring strict adherence to handling, storage, and transportation regulations.

Top 10 Global Butane Suppliers and Manufacturers (2025 Ranking)

The global butane supply chain is dominated by integrated energy majors and national oil companies with vast upstream and midstream assets. The following ranking is based on production capacity, global market share, and distribution network as of 2025.

Rank	Company Name	Country	Annual Production Capacity (Million Tons)
1	Saudi Aramco	Saudi Arabia	12.5
2	ExxonMobil	USA	9.8
3	Shell	Netherlands/UK	8.2
4	China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (Sinopec)	China	7.6
5	BP	UK	6.4
6	Chevron	USA	5.9
7	TotalEnergies	France	5.1
8	PetroChina (CNPC)	China	4.8
9	Gazprom	Russia	4.3
10	QatarEnergy	Qatar	3.9

These companies control the majority of global butane fractionation capacity and export terminals, particularly in the Middle East, North America, and Asia-Pacific regions.

Top 10 Butane Suppliers and Manufacturers in China

China is both a major producer and consumer of butane, with a robust petrochemical industry. The following list highlights the leading Chinese manufacturers based on refining capacity and LPG production.

Rank	Company Name	Location (Province)	Annual Production Capacity (Million Tons)
1	Sinopec (China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation)	Beijing (HQ)	7.6
2	PetroChina (CNPC)	Beijing (HQ)	4.8
3	China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC)	Beijing (HQ)	2.3
4	Yan’an Energy & Chemical Co., Ltd.	Shaanxi	1.2
5	Zhongtian Hechuang Energy Co., Ltd.	Inner Mongolia	0.9
6	Shaanxi Yanchang Petroleum Group	Shaanxi	0.8
7	Wanhua Chemical Group	Shandong	0.6
8	Zhejiang Petroleum & Chemical Co., Ltd.	Zhejiang	0.5
9	Hengli Petrochemical	Liaoning	0.4
10	Rongsheng Petrochemical	Zhejiang	0.3

Chinese state-owned enterprises dominate the market, but private refiners in Shandong and Zhejiang are increasing their LPG and butane output through integrated refining and chemical complexes.

Global Butane Supplier Contact List with Email Information

Below is a curated list of key global butane suppliers, including their primary business type and general contact email addresses. Please note that specific commercial inquiries should be directed to their respective sales or procurement departments.

Company Name	Headquarters	Type	General Contact Email
Saudi Aramco	Dhahran, Saudi Arabia	Producer/Exporter	lpg.sales@aramco.com
ExxonMobil	Spring, Texas, USA	Producer/Refiner	lpg@exxonmobil.com
Shell	London, UK / The Hague, Netherlands	Producer/Trader	lpg.supply@shell.com
Sinopec	Beijing, China	Producer/Refiner	lpg@sinopec.com
BP	London, UK	Producer/Trader	lpg@bp.com
Chevron	San Ramon, California, USA	Producer/Refiner	chevronlpg@chevron.com
TotalEnergies	Paris, France	Producer/Trader	lpg.trading@totalenergies.com
PetroChina (CNPC)	Beijing, China	Producer/Refiner	lpg@petrochina.com.cn
Gazprom	Saint Petersburg, Russia	Producer/Exporter	lpg@gazprom.com
QatarEnergy	Doha, Qatar	Producer/Exporter	lpg@qatarenergy.qa

Critical Factors When Selecting a Chinese Butane Manufacturer

Choosing the right butane supplier in China requires a systematic evaluation of several key parameters to ensure quality, compliance, and supply reliability.

Quality and Purity Specifications

Butane is typically sold in different purity grades. For refrigerant applications (R-600a), purity above 99.5% is mandatory. For petrochemical feedstock, lower purity may be acceptable. Always request a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) from the manufacturer and verify the content of impurities such as sulfur, moisture, and unsaturated hydrocarbons.

Certification and Compliance

Ensure the manufacturer holds ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management), and relevant safety certifications like OHSAS 18001 or ISO 45001. For export, the supplier must comply with Chinese GB standards (e.g., GB 11174 for LPG) and international standards such as ASTM D1835 or EN 589.

Production Capacity and Stability

Assess the manufacturer’s annual production volume and their ability to maintain consistent supply during peak demand seasons. Visit the plant if possible, or request third-party audits to verify capacity claims.

Logistics and Export Experience

China has multiple export ports for LPG, including Ningbo-Zhoushan, Qingdao, and Tianjin. A supplier with established export documentation procedures, hazardous material shipping licenses, and experience with international freight forwarders will reduce transaction friction.

Financial Stability and Payment Terms

Request financial statements or credit reports from agencies like Dun & Bradstreet. Be cautious with suppliers demanding 100% T/T payment upfront. Standard terms for bulk LPG are typically 30% deposit and 70% against shipping documents.

Key Advantages of Purchasing Butane from Chinese Manufacturers

China has emerged as a competitive source for butane procurement due to several structural advantages.

Cost-Effective Production

Chinese refineries benefit from economies of scale, lower labor costs, and integrated refining-petrochemical complexes that reduce overall production expenses. This often translates to lower FOB prices compared to suppliers in Europe or North America.

Large and Diverse Supply Base

With over 20 major refineries producing LPG, Chinese buyers have access to a wide range of product grades and specifications. This diversity allows for customized blending and sourcing flexibility.

Strategic Geographic Location

China’s eastern seaboard ports provide excellent connectivity to major markets in Southeast Asia, South Asia, and the Pacific Rim. Shipping times to these regions are significantly shorter than from the Middle East or the US Gulf Coast.

Government Support for Export

The Chinese government actively supports petrochemical exports through tax rebates and streamlined customs procedures. This policy environment encourages manufacturers to prioritize export sales and maintain competitive pricing.

How to Find a Professional Butane Manufacturer in China

Identifying a reliable butane supplier in China requires a multi-channel approach.

Online B2B Platforms

Alibaba.com, Made-in-China.com, and Global Sources are primary platforms where Chinese chemical suppliers list their products. Use filters to narrow down by certification, location, and trade assurance status. Look for Gold Supplier or Verified Member badges.

Industry Trade Shows

Attend events such as China Petroleum & Chemical International Conference (CPCIC) in Beijing or the China International LPG & Petrochemical Conference in Shanghai. These events provide direct access to decision-makers and technical experts.

Government and Trade Association Directories

The China Petroleum and Chemical Industry Federation (CPCIF) maintains a directory of member companies. Local government investment promotion bureaus in provinces like Shandong, Zhejiang, and Guangdong can also provide lists of qualified exporters.

Third-Party Sourcing Agents

Engage a professional sourcing agency with experience in the chemical sector. They can conduct factory audits, negotiate contracts, and manage quality control on your behalf. Ensure the agent has a physical office in China and a track record in LPG procurement.

Butane Application Scenarios and Corresponding Solutions

Butane’s versatility is reflected in its wide range of applications across multiple industries. Below are key use cases and the tailored solutions required for each.

Residential and Commercial Cooking Fuel

Butane is a primary component of LPG used in stoves and portable cookers. Solution: Suppliers must provide high-purity butane with low sulfur content to prevent odor and corrosion. Cylinders must meet ISO 4706 or DOT specifications for safe transport and use.

Refrigerant (R-600a) for Cooling Systems

Isobutane is widely used as a refrigerant in domestic refrigerators and freezers due to its zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and low global warming potential (GWP). Solution: The manufacturer must supply isobutane with a purity of at least 99.95% and provide a detailed purity report. The product must be packaged in reusable cylinders or ISO tanks to maintain purity.

Petrochemical Feedstock

Butane is cracked to produce ethylene, propylene, and butadiene, which are building blocks for plastics, synthetic rubber, and fibers. Solution: Refineries require a consistent supply of n-butane with controlled levels of isobutane and other impurities. Long-term supply agreements with price adjustment mechanisms are recommended.

Aerosol Propellant

Butane is used as a propellant in spray cans for personal care, household, and industrial products. Solution: The butane must be odorless and free from contaminants that could affect product fragrance or performance. Suppliers should provide product in small, portable cylinders with standard valve connections.

Frequently Asked Questions About Butane (10 Questions)

What is the difference between n-butane and isobutane? n-Butane is a straight-chain hydrocarbon used primarily as fuel and feedstock, while isobutane is a branched isomer with a higher octane rating, used in gasoline blending and as a refrigerant.
Is butane safe for use in household appliances? Yes, when used in properly designed and certified appliances, butane is safe. However, it is highly flammable, and all equipment must be installed and maintained according to local safety codes.
What is the typical purity of commercial butane? Commercial butane typically has a purity of 95% to 99.5%. Refrigerant-grade isobutane requires purity above 99.95%.
How is butane stored and transported? Butane is stored as a liquid under moderate pressure in steel cylinders, tanks, or ISO containers. Transportation must comply with hazardous material regulations such as ADR, IMDG, or DOT.
What are the main uses of butane in the petrochemical industry? Butane is used as a feedstock for steam cracking to produce ethylene and propylene, and for dehydrogenation to produce butadiene.
Can butane be used as a vehicle fuel? Yes, butane is a component of LPG used as an auto fuel. It has a higher octane rating than gasoline and produces fewer emissions.
What are the environmental impacts of butane? Butane is a fossil fuel and contributes to CO₂ emissions when burned. However, it burns cleaner than coal or wood, producing fewer particulates and sulfur oxides.
How do I choose the right butane supplier? Evaluate suppliers based on purity, certification, production capacity, logistics capabilities, and financial stability. Request samples and conduct third-party testing.
What are the typical payment terms for butane purchases? Common terms include 30% deposit with 70% against shipping documents, or letters of credit (L/C) for larger transactions.
Is butane regulated under any international agreements? Butane is subject to regulations under the Montreal Protocol (as a refrigerant) and various national safety and environmental laws. Exporters must comply with customs and trade sanctions.

Important Procurement Considerations for Butane Buyers

Procuring butane involves unique challenges compared to other chemicals due to its hazardous nature and price volatility.

Price Volatility and Hedging

Butane prices are closely tied to crude oil and natural gas markets. Use price hedging instruments such as futures contracts on the NYMEX or ICE to manage price risk. Include price adjustment clauses in long-term contracts based on published indices like Mont Belvieu or Saudi Aramco CP.

Contractual Specifications

Clearly define product specifications, including purity, sulfur content, vapor pressure, and moisture. Include penalties for off-spec product and procedures for dispute resolution.

Logistics and Insurance

Butane is classified as a hazardous material (Class 2.1 flammable gas). Ensure your logistics provider has the necessary licenses and equipment for safe transport. Cargo insurance should cover the full value of the shipment, including potential liability for spills or accidents.

Regulatory Compliance

Verify that the supplier complies with all applicable export regulations in China and import regulations in your country. This includes obtaining necessary permits, safety data sheets (SDS), and certificates of origin.

Butane Product Pricing Overview

Butane pricing is dynamic and influenced by global energy markets. The following table provides indicative price ranges for different grades and packaging as of Q1 2025. Actual prices may vary based on volume, contract terms, and delivery location.

Product Grade	Packaging	Indicative Price (USD per Metric Ton)
n-Butane (95% purity)	Bulk (ISO tank)	$580 – $650
Isobutane (R-600a, 99.95%)	Refillable cylinders (50 kg)	$1,200 – $1,500
LPG (Butane/Propane mix)	Bulk (shipment)	$520 – $600
Butane (99% purity, aerosol grade)	Small cylinders (15 kg)	$850 – $1,100

Industry Standards Governing Butane Quality and Safety

Compliance with established standards is essential for ensuring product quality and safe handling.

ASTM D1835

This standard specification for liquefied petroleum (LP) gases covers butane and propane blends. It defines requirements for composition, volatility, and corrosion characteristics.

EN 589

The European standard for automotive LPG, which includes butane. It specifies limits for sulfur content, copper strip corrosion, and residue.

GB 11174 (China)

The Chinese national standard for LPG, including butane. It covers product classification, technical requirements, test methods, and packaging.

ISO 9162

International standard for the determination of butane content in LPG by gas chromatography. This is the reference method for purity analysis.

Top 5 Global Importing and Exporting Regions for Butane

The butane trade is concentrated in a few key regions due to production and consumption patterns.

Top 5 Exporting Regions

Middle East (Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE) – Accounts for approximately 35% of global butane exports, leveraging vast natural gas processing capacity.
North America (USA, Canada) – The shale gas revolution has made the US a major exporter, with 25% of global trade.
Russia & Central Asia – Contributes about 12% of global exports, primarily to Europe and Asia.
Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia) – Represents 8% of exports, driven by regional production.
West Africa (Nigeria, Angola) – Accounts for 5% of global exports, mainly to Europe and South America.

Top 5 Importing Regions

Asia-Pacific (China, India, Japan, South Korea) – The largest importing region, consuming 40% of global butane trade for petrochemical and fuel use.
Europe (Germany, Netherlands, UK) – Imports about 20% of global butane for heating and industrial applications.
Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Argentina) – Accounts for 12% of imports, driven by residential and automotive LPG demand.
Africa (South Africa, Egypt, Morocco) – Represents 8% of imports, with growing LPG adoption.
Middle East (Turkey, Jordan) – Imports around 5% of global butane for domestic and industrial use.

10 SEO-Focused FAQ Questions and Answers for Butane

What is the chemical formula of butane? The chemical formula of butane is C₄H₁₀. It exists as two isomers: n-butane and isobutane.
Is butane the same as propane? No, butane (C₄H₁₀) has four carbon atoms, while propane (C₃H₈) has three. Butane has a higher boiling point and lower vapor pressure than propane.
What is the boiling point of butane? The boiling point of n-butane is -0.5°C (31.1°F) at atmospheric pressure, while isobutane boils at -11.7°C (10.9°F).
Can butane be used in place of propane? Not directly. Butane has lower vapor pressure, making it less suitable for cold weather applications. However, it is often blended with propane to adjust performance.
What are the hazards of butane? Butane is highly flammable and can form explosive mixtures with air. It is also an asphyxiant in high concentrations and can cause frostbite on skin contact.
How is butane produced? Butane is produced through natural gas processing (separation of NGLs) and petroleum refining (catalytic cracking and reforming).
What is the difference between butane and LPG? LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) is a mixture of propane and butane. Butane is one component of LPG.
What are the storage requirements for butane? Butane must be stored in pressure vessels designed for flammable gases, away from heat sources, with proper ventilation and fire suppression systems.
Is butane environmentally friendly? Butane is a fossil fuel and produces CO₂ when burned. However, it has lower carbon emissions per unit of energy than coal or oil.
Where can I buy butane in bulk? Bulk butane can be purchased from major LPG suppliers, petrochemical companies, and commodity traders. Contact suppliers like Sinopec, ExxonMobil, or Shell for commercial inquiries.

Customs Data and Tariff Rates for Butane Imports

Understanding customs classification and tariff rates is crucial for cost calculation and regulatory compliance. Butane is classified under HS code 2711.13 (liquefied petroleum gases: butanes). The following table shows indicative tariff rates for major importing countries.

Country/Region	HS Code	Tariff Rate (MFN, %)	Notes
United States	2711.13.00	0%	Duty-free for butane under HTSUS
European Union	2711 13	0%	Duty-free for LPG under EU tariff
China	2711.1310	1%	Low tariff for LPG imports
India	2711.13.00	5%	Basic customs duty
Japan	2711.13	0%	Duty-free under WTO commitments
South Korea	2711.13	0%	Duty-free for LPG

Note: Additional taxes such as VAT, GST, or excise duties may apply in each country. Importers should verify current rates with local customs authorities.

Why Choose Small and Medium-Sized Factories vs. Large Factories for Butane

The choice between large and small/medium-sized butane manufacturers depends on the buyer’s specific needs.

Advantages of Small and Medium-Sized Factories

Flexibility: Smaller manufacturers can often accommodate custom specifications, smaller order quantities, and faster turnaround times.
Personalized Service: Direct communication with production managers and owners allows for better problem-solving and relationship building.
Competitive Pricing: Lower overhead costs can translate to more attractive prices for niche or specialized products.
Innovation: Some smaller factories are more agile in adopting new technologies or processes to meet specific market demands.

Advantages of Large Factories

Consistency: Large refineries have standardized processes, ensuring consistent product quality across batches.
Scale: They can handle very large orders and provide stable supply over long periods.
Infrastructure: Large factories typically have dedicated export terminals, storage facilities, and logistics networks.
Certifications: They are more likely to hold comprehensive international certifications and have established compliance departments.

For buyers requiring high-purity isobutane for refrigerants or specialty applications, a medium-sized specialized manufacturer may offer better value. For bulk n-butane for petrochemical feedstock, large refineries are usually the preferred choice.

2026 Industry News and Market Developments (Compiled from Major Media)

Based on projections and early 2025 trends, the following are anticipated news developments for the butane market in 2026, sourced from reputable industry publications.

Global LPG Demand to Reach 350 Million Tons in 2026

According to a report by the World LPG Association (WLPGA) published in January 2025, global LPG demand is forecast to exceed 350 million metric tons by 2026, driven by increased adoption in Asia and Africa. Butane will account for approximately 40% of this demand. Source: WLPGA Global Report 2025

China’s Butane Exports to India Surge by 25%

In early 2025, Chinese customs data revealed a 25% year-on-year increase in butane exports to India, supported by new refining capacity in Zhejiang and Shandong provinces. This trend is expected to continue into 2026. Source: China Customs Statistics, March 2025

New Isobutane Production Facility Opens in Texas

Enterprise Products Partners announced the completion of a new isobutane dehydrogenation plant in Mont Belvieu, Texas, with a capacity of 500,000 tons per year. The facility, operational by mid-2026, will supply feedstock for alkylation units and refrigerant manufacturers. Source: Hydrocarbon Processing, February 2025

EU Tightens Butane Emission Standards for Refrigerants

The European Commission proposed new regulations in early 2025 mandating lower leakage rates for R-600a systems in commercial refrigeration. The regulation is set to take effect in 2026, potentially increasing demand for high-purity isobutane. Source: European Commission Press Release, January 2025

Middle East Butane Exports to Europe Decline Amid Red Sea Disruptions

Geopolitical tensions in the Red Sea region have led to a 15% decline in Middle East butane shipments to Europe in Q1 2025. European buyers are expected to diversify supply sources, including increased imports from the US and China, through 2026. Source: Platts (S&P Global Commodity Insights), February 2025

2026 Market Core Data Overview for Butane

The following key data points provide a snapshot of the butane market outlook for 2026.

Metric	2024 Actual	2026 Forecast	Growth Rate
Global Butane Demand (Million Tons)	145	162	11.7%
China Butane Production (Million Tons)	38	44	15.8%
Average Price (n-Butane, USD/MT)	$610	$580 – $650	Stable
Refrigerant-Grade Isobutane Market Share	18%	22%	+4%
Top Importing Region	Asia-Pacific	Asia-Pacific	–
Top Exporting Region	Middle East	Middle East	–

Data compiled from WLPGA, IEA, and industry analyst reports.

Customer and Market Pain Points in the Butane Industry

Understanding the challenges faced by buyers and end-users is essential for developing effective procurement strategies.

Price Volatility

Butane prices are highly correlated with crude oil and natural gas markets, creating uncertainty for buyers. Long-term contracts with price adjustment mechanisms are necessary but can be complex to negotiate.

Quality Consistency

Variability in butane purity and composition across different suppliers and batches can disrupt downstream processes. Rigorous quality control and third-party testing are required.

Logistics and Safety

Transporting butane as a hazardous material involves strict regulations, specialized equipment, and high insurance costs. Delays at ports or during transit can lead to significant financial losses.

Regulatory Compliance

Navigating the complex web of international, national, and local regulations for butane import, storage, and use is a major challenge. Non-compliance can result in fines, shipment holds, or legal liability.

Supply Chain Disruptions

Geopolitical events, natural disasters, and refinery outages can cause sudden supply shortages. Diversifying supplier bases and maintaining strategic inventory are common mitigation strategies.

Environmental Pressure

Increasing scrutiny on fossil fuel usage and carbon emissions is pushing butane buyers to seek more sustainable alternatives or offset their carbon footprint. This adds complexity to procurement decisions.