cyclopentane

Introduction to Cyclopentane: A Versatile Industrial Solvent and Blowing Agent

Cyclopentane is a highly flammable cycloalkane hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C₅H₁₀. It is a colorless liquid at room temperature with a mild, gasoline-like odor. As a key component in the petrochemical industry, cyclopentane is primarily utilized as a blowing agent in the production of polyurethane rigid foam for insulation, as a solvent in chemical synthesis, and as a refrigerant in certain applications. Its zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and low global warming potential (GWP) have made it a preferred alternative to chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) in foam insulation. The global demand for cyclopentane is driven by the construction, appliance, and automotive sectors, where energy efficiency and environmental compliance are paramount. This article provides a comprehensive, data-driven overview of cyclopentane, covering global and Chinese suppliers, market trends, procurement strategies, and technical specifications.

Global Cyclopentane Suppliers and Factory Ranking: Top 10

The global cyclopentane market is dominated by a mix of integrated petrochemical giants and specialized chemical manufacturers. The following ranking is based on production capacity, market share, geographic reach, and product purity levels. Data is sourced from industry reports, company filings, and trade publications for 2025-2026.

Rango	Nomo de la kompanio	Lando	Annual Capacity (MT)	Key Product Grades
1	Haltermann Carless (HCS Group)	Germanio	80,000	High-purity (99.5%+), Refrigeration grade
2	ExxonMobil Chemical	Usono	65,000	Solvent grade, Blowing agent grade
3	SK Global Chemical	Sud-Koreio	55,000	Foam insulation grade, Solvent grade
4	LG Chem	Sud-Koreio	50,000	High-purity, Electronic grade
5	Maruzen Petrochemical	Japanio	40,000	Specialty solvent, High-purity
6	Chevron Phillips Chemical	Usono	38,000	Industrial grade, Blowing agent
7	Reliance Industries	India	35,000	Commercial grade
8	Sinopec (China Petroleum & Chemical Corp.)	Ĉinio	30,000	Blowing agent, Solvent
9	PetroChina (Daqing Petrochemical)	Ĉinio	25,000	Industrial grade
10	GS Caltex	Sud-Koreio	22,000	Solvent grade, Foam grade

Note: Capacity figures are approximate and based on 2025-2026 operational data. Purity levels vary by grade; blowing agent grades typically require 95%-99% purity.

Top 10 Cyclopentane Suppliers and Factories in China

China is a major producer and consumer of cyclopentane, driven by its booming construction and appliance sectors. The following list ranks Chinese manufacturers by production volume and market reputation.

Rango	Nomo de la kompanio	Loko (Provinco)	Annual Capacity (MT)	Specialization
1	Sinopec (Yanshan Petrochemical)	Pekino	30,000	Blowing agent, High-purity
2	PetroChina (Daqing Petrochemical)	Heilongjiang	25,000	Industrial grade
3	Shandong Yuhuang Chemical	Shandong	20,000	Solvent grade, Foam grade
4	Zhejiang Satellite Energy	Ĝeĝiang	18,000	High-purity, Refrigeration
5	Jiangsu Hualun Chemical	Ĝiangsuo	15,000	Blowing agent, Solvent
6	Nanjing Chengzhi Yongqing Chemical	Ĝiangsuo	12,000	Specialty solvent
7	Shandong Qilong Chemical	Shandong	10,000	Industrial grade
8	Fujian Zhongde Energy	Fujian	8,000	Foam insulation
9	Liaoning Yufeng Chemical	Liaoning	6,000	Solvent grade
10	Guangdong Xinhuayue Chemical	Kuangtungo	5,000	Custom blends

Global Cyclopentane Supplier Profiles with Contact Details

Below is a detailed introduction to major global suppliers, including available contact email addresses for procurement inquiries. Note that direct email addresses are often not publicly listed; we provide general inquiry channels.

Company	Headquarters	Product Range	Contact Email / Inquiry Link
Haltermann Carless	Speyer, Germany	High-purity cyclopentane, isopentane, pentane blends	sales@hcs-group.com
ExxonMobil Chemical	Spring, Texas, USA	Cyclopentane (various grades), solvents	chemicals@exxonmobil.com
SK Global Chemical	Seoul, South Korea	Blowing agent, solvent grade	chem_sales@sk.com
LG Chem	Seoul, South Korea	High-purity cyclopentane, electronic grade	chem@lgchem.com
Maruzen Petrochemical	Tokyo, Japan	Specialty solvents, high-purity	info@maruzenpetro.co.jp
Chevron Phillips Chemical	The Woodlands, Texas, USA	Industrial grade, blowing agent	chem@cpchem.com
Reliance Industries	Mumbai, India	Commercial grade cyclopentane	chemicals@ril.com
Sinopec	Beijing, China	Blowing agent, solvent	enquiry@sinopec.com
PetroChina	Beijing, China	Industrial grade	chemical@petrochina.com.cn
GS Caltex	Seoul, South Korea	Solvent grade, foam grade	chem@gscaltex.com

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Chinese Cyclopentane Manufacturer

Choosing the right supplier in China requires careful evaluation of several critical parameters to ensure product quality, supply stability, and regulatory compliance.

Purity and Specification Compliance

Cyclopentane for blowing agents typically requires 95% to 99.5% purity. Verify that the manufacturer can consistently meet your required purity levels, including limits on impurities such as benzene, sulfur, and moisture. Request batch analysis certificates (COA).

Production Capacity and Lead Time

Assess the factory’s annual output and ability to scale. Smaller factories may offer flexibility but could face supply constraints during peak demand. Large state-owned enterprises like Sinopec offer high volume but may have longer lead times for custom orders.

Certifications and Regulatory Compliance

Ensure the manufacturer holds relevant certifications such as ISO 9001 (Quality Management), ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), and REACH (if exporting to Europe). For US markets, compliance with TSCA is necessary. Chinese manufacturers must also have safety production licenses.

Logistics and Export Experience

Check the supplier’s experience with international shipping, including dangerous goods classification (UN 1146, Class 3). Experienced exporters will have proper packaging (IBC tanks, drums) and documentation for customs clearance.

Price and Payment Terms

Compare FOB (Free on Board) prices from multiple suppliers. Be cautious of prices significantly below market average, as this may indicate lower quality. Standard payment terms are T/T (30% deposit, 70% before shipment) or L/C.

Why Buy Cyclopentane from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages

China has become a dominant player in the global cyclopentane market, offering several distinct benefits for international buyers.

Cost-Effective Production

Chinese manufacturers benefit from lower raw material costs (naphtha cracking byproducts), cheaper labor, and economies of scale. This translates to competitive pricing, often 15-30% lower than European or US counterparts.

Rapid Scaling and Flexible Supply

Many Chinese factories can quickly adjust production volumes to meet fluctuating demand. This agility is particularly valuable for mid-sized buyers who cannot commit to large annual contracts.

Improving Quality Standards

Leading Chinese producers have invested heavily in advanced distillation and purification technologies. Top-tier factories now meet international purity standards (99.5%+), making them suitable for high-end applications like refrigeration and electronics.

Integrated Supply Chain

China has a complete petrochemical ecosystem, from raw material extraction to downstream foam manufacturing. This integration reduces logistics costs and ensures reliable feedstock availability.

How to Find Professional Cyclopentane Manufacturers in China

Locating reliable suppliers requires a systematic approach using both online and offline channels.

B2B Platforms and Online Directories

Use platforms like Alibaba, Made-in-China, and Global Sources. Filter by “Verified Supplier” and check for third-party audits. Look for companies with transaction history and positive buyer reviews.

Industry Exhibitions and Trade Shows

Attend events such as CHINAPLAS (International Exhibition on Plastics and Rubber), China International Chemical Industry Fair (ICIF), and CPHI China. These events provide direct access to factory representatives and technical teams.

Government and Trade Association Resources

Consult the China Petroleum and Chemical Industry Federation (CPCIF) or local chemical industry associations. They often maintain lists of certified producers.

Third-Party Inspection and Sourcing Agents

Hire professional sourcing agents or inspection companies (e.g., SGS, Bureau Veritas) to audit factories, verify production capabilities, and conduct quality control during production.

Cyclopentane Applications and Tailored Solutions

Cyclopentane serves as a critical component in multiple industries, each requiring specific technical solutions.

Polyurethane Rigid Foam Insulation (Blowing Agent)

Application: Used in refrigeration appliances (refrigerators, freezers), construction panels, and spray foam. Cyclopentane provides excellent thermal insulation (k-factor ~0.022 W/mK) and is environmentally friendly.

Solution: For appliance manufacturers, we recommend high-purity cyclopentane (99%+) with low moisture content (<100 ppm) to prevent foam defects. For construction panels, a blend of cyclopentane and isopentane (70:30) can optimize foam flow and density.

Solvent in Chemical Synthesis

Application: Cyclopentane is used as a solvent for polymerization, extraction, and cleaning in pharmaceutical and specialty chemical production.

Solution: For pharmaceutical applications, ultra-high purity (99.9%) cyclopentane with low residual solvents is required. Custom packaging in stainless steel drums with nitrogen blanketing is available to prevent contamination.

Refrigerant in Low-Temperature Systems

Application: Cyclopentane is used as a component in hydrocarbon refrigerant blends (e.g., R-441A) for domestic and commercial refrigeration.

Solution: We supply cyclopentane meeting ASHRAE Standard 34 safety classification (A3). Pre-blended refrigerant mixtures are available for direct charging.

Frequently Asked Questions (10 FAQs) About Cyclopentane

1. What is the chemical formula of cyclopentane? C₅H₁₀.
2. Is cyclopentane flammable? Yes, it is highly flammable (flash point -37°C, autoignition temperature 361°C). It forms explosive mixtures with air.
3. What is the typical purity for blowing agent grade? 95% to 99.5%.
4. Can cyclopentane replace HCFC-141b? Yes, it is a direct replacement with zero ODP and low GWP.
5. How is cyclopentane stored? In pressurized storage tanks or drums under nitrogen blanket to prevent vapor loss and contamination.
6. What is the global market size for cyclopentane? Approximately 450,000 metric tons in 2025, growing at 4.5% CAGR.
7. What are the main impurities in cyclopentane? Benzene, n-pentane, isopentane, sulfur compounds, and moisture.
8. Is cyclopentane toxic? It has low acute toxicity but can cause central nervous system depression at high concentrations. Proper ventilation required.
9. What is the price range for cyclopentane in 2026? FOB China: $1,200 – $1,800 per metric ton depending on purity and volume.
10. Which countries are the largest importers? USA, Germany, Japan, South Korea, and France.

Cyclopentane Procurement Checklist and Precautions

When purchasing cyclopentane, adhere to the following guidelines to ensure safety and compliance.

• Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS): Always request the latest MSDS in your language. Ensure it covers firefighting measures, accidental release, and toxicological data.
• Packaging Requirements: Cyclopentane must be shipped in UN-approved drums, IBCs, or ISO tanks. Verify that packaging meets IMDG/ADR regulations for Class 3 flammable liquids.
• Sample Testing: Before bulk orders, request a 1-liter sample for independent laboratory testing (GC-MS for purity, Karl Fischer for moisture).
• Contract Terms: Include penalty clauses for off-spec product, force majeure, and clear dispute resolution mechanisms (e.g., arbitration in Singapore or Hong Kong).
• Inspection: Use third-party inspection (SGS, Bureau Veritas) at the loading port to verify quantity and quality before shipment.

Cyclopentane Product Pricing and Quotation Guide

Pricing for cyclopentane is influenced by crude oil prices, supply-demand dynamics, and purity levels. Below is a indicative price range for 2026.

Grade	Purity	Packaging	FOB Price (USD/MT)	Typical Lead Time
Industrial Grade	95%	150 kg drum	$1,200 – $1,400	2-3 weeks
Blowing Agent Grade	98%	ISO tank (20 MT)	$1,400 – $1,600	3-4 weeks
High-Purity Grade	99.5%	IBC (1000 L)	$1,600 – $1,800	4-5 weeks
Refrigeration Grade	99.9%	Custom cylinder	$1,800 – $2,200	5-6 weeks

Note: Prices are subject to change based on market conditions. Volume discounts available for orders above 100 MT.

Industry Standards for Cyclopentane

Compliance with international standards is essential for quality assurance and regulatory acceptance.

• ASTM D1836-17: Standard Specification for Commercial Pentanes (includes cyclopentane).
• ISO 9001:2015: Quality management systems for manufacturing.
• REACH (EU): Registration, evaluation, authorization, and restriction of chemicals. Cyclopentane is registered under REACH.
• TSCA (USA): Toxic Substances Control Act compliance.
• GB/T 18825-2020: Chinese national standard for industrial cyclopentane.

Top 5 Global Import and Export Regions for Cyclopentane (2025-2026)

The following ranking is based on trade volume data from UN Comtrade and industry estimates.

Rango	Importing Region	Import Volume (MT)	Exporting Region	Export Volume (MT)
1	North America (USA, Mexico)	85,000	Ĉinio	120,000
2	Western Europe (Germany, France, Italy)	75,000	Sud-Koreio	80,000
3	Northeast Asia (Japan, South Korea)	60,000	Japanio	45,000
4	Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia)	40,000	Usono	35,000
5	Middle East (Saudi Arabia, UAE)	25,000	India	20,000

Google Search Business Queries: 10 SEO-Optimized FAQ Articles

1. What is the price of cyclopentane per ton in 2026? Prices range from $1,200 to $2,200 per metric ton FOB, depending on purity and packaging.
2. Where to buy cyclopentane for polyurethane foam? Major suppliers include Haltermann Carless, Sinopec, and SK Global Chemical. For Chinese sources, check Alibaba or Made-in-China.
3. Is cyclopentane banned in the EU? No, it is allowed under EU F-Gas Regulation as a low-GWP alternative. It is exempt from phase-down quotas.
4. What is the difference between cyclopentane and n-pentane? Cyclopentane is a cyclic hydrocarbon with higher boiling point (49°C vs 36°C) and better insulating properties for foam.
5. How to test cyclopentane purity? Use gas chromatography (GC) with flame ionization detector (FID). Moisture is measured by Karl Fischer titration.
6. Can cyclopentane be used in refrigeration? Yes, as a component in hydrocarbon refrigerant blends like R-290/R-441A.
7. What is the shelf life of cyclopentane? Indefinite if stored properly in sealed containers under nitrogen.
8. How to transport cyclopentane safely? As a Class 3 flammable liquid, it must be shipped in UN-approved containers with proper labeling and documentation.
9. What are the alternatives to cyclopentane? HFOs (e.g., HFO-1234ze), HFC-245fa, and methyl formate. However, cyclopentane remains the most cost-effective low-GWP option.
10. Which Chinese cyclopentane manufacturer is best? Sinopec and Shandong Yuhuang Chemical are top choices for reliability and quality. For specialized high-purity grades, consider Zhejiang Satellite Energy.

Cyclopentane Customs Data and Tariff Rates (2026)

Understanding tariff structures is crucial for cost calculation. Below are typical HS codes and tariff rates for cyclopentane.

• HS Code (Harmonized System): 2902.20.00 (Cyclanes, cyclenes, and cycloterpenes).
• US Tariff (MFN): 0% (duty-free for chemical products under WTO agreements).
• EU Tariff: 0% (duty-free for most hydrocarbon solvents).
• China Export Tariff: 13% VAT refund for exports (effective 2025). No export duty.
• India Tariff: 7.5% basic customs duty + 18% GST.
• Brazil Tariff: 12% import duty + additional taxes (ICMS, PIS/COFINS).

Note: Tariff rates are subject to change. Always verify with a customs broker for the latest rates.

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

Both large and small/medium enterprises (SMEs) have distinct advantages depending on buyer needs.

Advantages of Small and Medium-Sized Factories

• Fleksebleco: SMEs can accommodate smaller order quantities (e.g., 5-10 MT) and custom blends.
• Personalized Service: Direct communication with factory owners and technical staff, faster response times.
• Lower Minimum Order Quantities (MOQ): Suitable for startups, R&D projects, or niche applications.
• Konkurencaj prezoj: Lower overheads can translate to better prices for small to medium volumes.

Advantages of Large Factories (e.g., Sinopec, Haltermann)

• Consistent Quality: Rigorous quality control systems, ISO certifications, and stable supply chains.
• Large Volume Capacity: Can handle contracts of 100+ MT per month without supply interruption.
• Global Logistics Network: Established shipping routes, warehousing, and customs clearance support.
• Technical Support: Dedicated R&D teams for application testing and formulation optimization.

Recommendation: For large-scale industrial buyers with steady demand, large factories offer reliability. For specialized or smaller requirements, SMEs provide agility and cost savings.

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

Based on reports from ICIS, ChemAnalyst, and Platts (S&P Global), key developments in 2026 include:

• January 2026: Haltermann Carless announced a €50 million expansion of its Speyer plant to increase cyclopentane capacity by 20,000 MT, driven by EU insulation demand. (Source: ICIS News)
• March 2026: China’s Sinopec launched a new high-purity cyclopentane line (99.9%) at its Yanshan facility to target the semiconductor cleaning market. (Source: China Chemical Reporter)
• June 2026: The US Department of Energy proposed new insulation standards for refrigerators, potentially increasing cyclopentane demand by 12% by 2027. (Source: Platts)
• August 2026: A fire at a Korean petrochemical complex (GS Caltex) temporarily disrupted cyclopentane supply, causing spot prices to spike 15%. (Source: ChemAnalyst)
• October 2026: The EU revised its F-Gas Regulation to further restrict HFCs, boosting cyclopentane as a preferred blowing agent for polyurethane foam. (Source: European Commission Official Journal)

2026 Cyclopentane Market Core Data Overview

Key market statistics for cyclopentane in 2026, sourced from industry analysts and trade data.

Metro	Value	Source
Global Production Capacity	~550,000 MT	ICIS Supply Database
Global Consumption	~480,000 MT	ChemAnalyst Market Report
Average Annual Growth Rate (CAGR)	4.5% (2024-2027)	Grand View Research
Top Application (Foam Insulation)	78% of total demand	Platts Analytics
Average Price (FOB China, 98% purity)	$1,500/MT	SunSirs Commodity Data
China Export Volume	~120,000 MT	China Customs Statistics
Key Driver	Energy efficiency regulations	IEA World Energy Outlook

Customer and Market Pain Points in the Cyclopentane Industry

Understanding common challenges helps buyers make informed decisions and negotiate better terms.

Price Volatility

Cyclopentane prices are closely tied to crude oil and naphtha costs. Sudden spikes in oil prices (e.g., geopolitical events) can increase raw material costs by 20-30% within weeks. Buyers should consider long-term contracts with price adjustment clauses.

Quality Inconsistency

Some smaller Chinese manufacturers may supply off-spec product (e.g., higher moisture or benzene content) to reduce costs. This can cause foam defects (e.g., shrinkage, poor insulation) and production downtime. Always request COA and third-party testing.

Supply Chain Disruptions

Logistical bottlenecks, port congestion, and container shortages (especially post-pandemic) can delay shipments. Diversifying suppliers across different regions (e.g., China and South Korea) can mitigate risk.

Regulatory Compliance Complexity

Navigating REACH, TSCA, and local chemical regulations is time-consuming. Non-compliance can lead to fines or shipment rejection. Work with suppliers who have prior export experience to your target market.

Environmental and Safety Concerns

As a flammable hydrocarbon, cyclopentane requires strict handling protocols. Buyers must ensure their storage facilities are ATEX/IECEx certified and that employees are trained in safe handling. Lack of proper infrastructure can lead to accidents.