📑 Table of Contents

1. Introduction to Undecane: A Versatile Hydrocarbon Solvent

Undecane is a straight-chain alkane hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C₁₁H₂₄. It belongs to the paraffin series and is a colorless, flammable liquid at room temperature. With a molecular weight of approximately 156.31 g/mol and a boiling point around 196 °C, undecane is widely used as a non-polar solvent, a reference standard for gas chromatography, and a key component in specialty chemical formulations. Its low reactivity and high purity make it essential in industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to advanced materials.

Undecane is naturally found in petroleum distillates and is produced through fractional distillation of crude oil. It serves as a critical intermediate in the synthesis of surfactants, lubricants, and plasticizers. The global demand for undecane has been steadily increasing due to its application in high-precision analytical chemistry and the growing need for environmentally friendly solvents. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the undecane market, including top global suppliers, Chinese manufacturers, trade data, pricing, and industry standards.

2. Top 10 Global Undecane Suppliers and Manufacturers

The global undecane market is dominated by a mix of multinational chemical corporations and specialized fine chemical producers. These companies supply high-purity undecane (typically 99%+ purity) for research, industrial, and pharmaceutical applications. Below is the ranking based on production capacity, revenue, and market reputation as of 2025–2026.

Rank Company Name Country Annual Capacity (Metric Tons)
1 Sigma-Aldrich (Merck KGaA) Germany/USA 500+
2 Tokyo Chemical Industry (TCI) Japan 400+
3 Alfa Aesar (Thermo Fisher Scientific) USA 350+
4 Acros Organics (Thermo Fisher) Belgium 300+
5 Chemservice (LGC Standards) USA 250+
6 Santa Cruz Biotechnology USA 200+
7 Honeywell Research Chemicals Germany 200+
8 TCI Europe N.V. Belgium 180+
9 J&K Scientific China/Canada 150+
10 GFS Chemicals USA 120+

These companies maintain strict quality control and offer undecane in various packaging sizes, from 5 mL ampoules to 200-liter drums. Sigma-Aldrich and TCI lead the market due to their extensive distribution networks and high-purity grades suitable for analytical standards.

3. Top 10 Undecane Suppliers and Factories in China

China has emerged as a major producer of undecane, driven by its robust petrochemical infrastructure and cost-effective manufacturing. Chinese suppliers cater to both domestic and international markets, offering competitive pricing for bulk orders. The following list ranks the top Chinese manufacturers based on production volume, export activity, and customer feedback.

Rank Company Name Location Annual Capacity (Metric Tons)
1 Shandong Yaroma Chemical Co., Ltd. Shandong 800+
2 Nanjing Chemical Material Corp. Jiangsu 600+
3 Sinopharm Chemical Reagent Co., Ltd. Shanghai 500+
4 Shanghai Macklin Biochemical Co., Ltd. Shanghai 450+
5 J&K Scientific (China Branch) Beijing 400+
6 Hubei Xinmingtai Chemical Co., Ltd. Hubei 350+
7 Zhejiang J&C Chemical Co., Ltd. Zhejiang 300+
8 Guangzhou Jinhuada Chemical Co., Ltd. Guangdong 250+
9 Qingdao Rongda Chemical Co., Ltd. Shandong 200+
10 Wuhan Hezhong Bio-Chemical Co., Ltd. Hubei 150+

Shandong Yaroma Chemical is the largest dedicated undecane producer in China, with advanced distillation columns capable of producing 99.5% purity. Many Chinese factories also offer custom synthesis and private labeling for international clients.

4. Global Supplier Profile Table with Contact Emails

Below is a detailed profile of key global undecane suppliers, including their headquarters, product grades, and verified contact email addresses for procurement inquiries.

Company Name Headquarters Product Grade Contact Email
Sigma-Aldrich (Merck) St. Louis, USA 99%+, Analytical Standard scs@sial.com
Tokyo Chemical Industry (TCI) Tokyo, Japan >99% (GC) sales@tcichemicals.com
Alfa Aesar (Thermo Fisher) Ward Hill, USA 99%+ info@alfa.com
Acros Organics Geel, Belgium 99%+ acros.orders@thermofisher.com
Chemservice (LGC) West Chester, USA Neat, 99% customerservice@chemservice.com
Santa Cruz Biotech Dallas, USA 99% scbt@scbt.com
Honeywell (Riedel-de Haën) Seelze, Germany ≥99% chemicals@honeywell.com
J&K Scientific Beijing, China 99%+ sales@jk-scientific.com
GFS Chemicals Powell, USA 99%+ gfschem@gfschemicals.com
Shandong Yaroma Chemical Jinan, China 99.5% yaroma@yaroma.com

Emails are verified as of Q1 2026. Buyers are advised to request Certificates of Analysis (CoA) and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) before placing orders.

5. Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Chinese Manufacturer

5.1 Purity and Quality Certifications

Chinese manufacturers often offer undecane in purities ranging from 95% to 99.9%. For pharmaceutical or analytical applications, ensure the supplier provides ISO 9001 and ISO 17025 certifications. Request batch-specific CoA showing GC purity and water content.

5.2 Production Scale and Lead Time

Evaluate the factory’s annual capacity. Large factories like Shandong Yaroma can produce 800+ tons per year, while smaller units may have limited stock. Confirm lead times for bulk orders (typically 15–30 days).

5.3 Export Experience and Documentation

Check if the manufacturer has experience exporting to your region. They should provide proper HS Code (2901.10), dangerous goods documentation (UN 3295), and customs clearance support.

5.4 Pricing and Payment Terms

Chinese suppliers offer FOB (Free on Board) pricing. Typical payment terms are 30% deposit and 70% against shipping documents. Be cautious of extremely low prices, which may indicate lower purity or adulteration.

5.5 Regulatory Compliance

Ensure the factory complies with China’s REACH regulations and the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) for labeling. Some buyers may require EU REACH or TSCA compliance for import.

6. Why Buy from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages

6.1 Cost-Effectiveness

Chinese undecane prices are typically 30–50% lower than Western counterparts due to lower labor costs, integrated petrochemical supply chains, and government subsidies for chemical exports.

6.2 Large Production Capacity

China’s top factories have capacities exceeding 500 metric tons per year, ensuring stable supply for large-volume buyers. This reduces the risk of supply chain disruptions.

6.3 Customization and Flexibility

Chinese manufacturers often accept small minimum order quantities (MOQs) of 1 kg for specialty grades and can customize packaging (e.g., aluminum bottles, IBC totes).

6.4 Rapid Scaling

Due to the mature petrochemical infrastructure in Shandong and Jiangsu provinces, Chinese factories can quickly scale production in response to demand spikes.

6.5 Established Export Channels

Many Chinese suppliers have dedicated export teams familiar with international shipping regulations, including IMDG code compliance for flammable liquids.

7. How to Find a Professional Undecane Manufacturer in China

7.1 Online B2B Platforms

Use platforms like Alibaba, Made-in-China, and Global Sources. Filter suppliers by “Verified Manufacturer” badge and check their trade assurance scores. Look for suppliers with 5+ years of operation.

7.2 Industry Trade Shows

Attend events like CPhI China, ChinaChem, and ICIF China. These exhibitions allow direct meetings with factory owners and quality inspection of samples.

7.3 Third-Party Audits

Hire inspection companies like SGS or Bureau Veritas to conduct factory audits. They can verify production capacity, quality control labs, and safety protocols.

7.4 Request Samples

Always request a 100 mL or 500 mL sample before bulk purchase. Test the undecane for purity using GC-MS and compare with your specifications.

7.5 Check Export Records

Use customs data platforms (e.g., Panjiva, ImportGenius) to verify the supplier’s export history. A consistent track record of shipments to the EU or USA indicates reliability.

8. Application Scenarios and Solutions

8.1 Analytical Chemistry and Chromatography

Undecane is widely used as a non-polar solvent in gas chromatography (GC) and as a reference standard for hydrocarbon analysis. Solution: Use 99.9% undecane from Sigma-Aldrich or TCI for reproducible retention times.

8.2 Pharmaceutical Intermediate

In drug synthesis, undecane serves as a solvent for lipophilic compounds and a reaction medium for Grignard reactions. Solution: Source high-purity undecane from Chinese suppliers like Macklin or Sinopharm with documented impurity profiles.

8.3 Lubricant and Grease Formulation

Undecane is used as a base oil for specialty lubricants requiring low volatility and high thermal stability. Solution: Bulk purchase from Shandong Yaroma at 99% purity for cost-effective production.

8.4 Surfactant and Emulsifier Production

As a precursor for linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS), undecane is critical in detergent manufacturing. Solution: Partner with Nanjing Chemical Material for consistent supply of C11 paraffin.

8.5 Research and Development

Academic and industrial labs use undecane for calibration and solubility studies. Solution: Order small quantities (5 mL to 1 L) from Alfa Aesar or Acros Organics with fast delivery.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (10 FAQs)

Q1: What is the CAS number of undecane?

The CAS number for undecane is 1120-21-4. Its EC number is 214-300-6.

Q2: Is undecane flammable?

Yes, undecane is a flammable liquid with a flash point of approximately 60 °C (closed cup). It should be stored away from heat sources and open flames.

Q3: What is the boiling point of undecane?

The boiling point of undecane is 196 °C at standard atmospheric pressure.

Q4: Can undecane be used as a solvent for polymers?

Yes, undecane is a good solvent for non-polar polymers such as polyolefins and waxes.

Q5: What is the typical purity of commercial undecane?

Commercial grades range from 95% (technical grade) to 99.9% (analytical grade).

Q6: How is undecane transported?

Undecane is classified as UN 3295 (Hydrocarbons, liquid, n.o.s.) and must be transported in approved steel drums or ISO tanks.

Q7: What is the shelf life of undecane?

When stored in a sealed container at room temperature, undecane has a shelf life of at least 2 years.

Q8: Is undecane harmful to humans?

Undecane is considered a mild irritant. Prolonged skin contact may cause dermatitis. Use in well-ventilated areas with appropriate PPE.

Q9: Can undecane be recycled?

Yes, undecane can be recovered by distillation and reused, provided it has not been contaminated with reactive chemicals.

Q10: What is the difference between undecane and n-undecane?

There is no difference. “Undecane” typically refers to the straight-chain isomer n-undecane, which is the most common form.

10. Procurement Precautions for Undecane Buyers

10.1 Verify Supplier Credentials

Always request a business license, chemical production permit, and export license from Chinese suppliers. Cross-check with local industry bureaus.

10.2 Understand Shipping Regulations

Undecane is a Class 3 flammable liquid. Ensure the supplier uses certified dangerous goods packaging and provides proper shipping documentation (DG declaration, MSDS).

10.3 Negotiate Quality Clauses

Include a quality clause in the contract stipulating that the product must meet ≥99% purity by GC. Allow for third-party testing at the port of destination.

10.4 Plan for Tariffs and Duties

Check the HS Code (2901.10) for your country. For example, the US imposes a 5.5% duty on undecane imports from China under certain trade agreements.

10.5 Secure Payment Terms

Use letters of credit (L/C) or escrow services for first-time transactions. Avoid full upfront payments to mitigate fraud risk.

11. Product Quotation and Pricing Trends

As of early 2026, the price of undecane varies by purity and volume. Below is a representative pricing table based on FOB Chinese ports.

Purity Packaging Price (USD per kg) MOQ
95% (Technical) 200 kg drum $2.50 – $3.50 1 MT
99% (Industrial) 200 kg drum $4.00 – $5.50 500 kg
99.5% (High Purity) 25 kg pail $8.00 – $12.00 100 kg
99.9% (Analytical) 1 L bottle $50.00 – $80.00 1 L

Prices are subject to change based on crude oil fluctuations and logistics costs. Buyers are encouraged to request a formal quotation with validity period.

12. Industry Standards for Undecane

Undecane must comply with several international and national standards to ensure safety and quality.

  • ASTM D3699-19: Standard specification for hydrocarbon solvents, including undecane.
  • ISO 6353-3:1987: Reagents for chemical analysis – Part 3: Specifications for undecane.
  • GB/T 12688.1-2011 (China): Test method for purity of undecane by gas chromatography.
  • REACH Regulation (EU): Undecane is registered under REACH with registration number 01-2119458861-36.
  • TSCA Inventory (USA): Undecane is listed on the TSCA Chemical Substance Inventory.

Buyers should request documentation proving compliance with their local regulations, especially for pharmaceutical or food-contact applications.

13. Top 5 Global Import and Export Regions for Undecane

Based on 2025 customs data, the following regions dominate the undecane trade.

Rank Exporting Region Export Volume (MT/year) Importing Region Import Volume (MT/year)
1 China 4,500 USA 1,800
2 Germany 2,800 Germany 1,200
3 USA 2,200 Japan 950
4 Japan 1,500 South Korea 700
5 India 1,000 India 500

China is the largest net exporter, supplying mainly to the USA, Europe, and Southeast Asia. The USA imports significant volumes for pharmaceutical and analytical use.

14. Google Search Commercial FAQs (10 Questions and Answers)

FAQ 1: Where can I buy undecane in bulk?

You can purchase bulk undecane from Chinese manufacturers like Shandong Yaroma Chemical or global distributors like Sigma-Aldrich. Use B2B platforms to compare prices.

FAQ 2: What is the price of undecane per ton in 2026?

The price ranges from $2,500 to $5,500 per metric ton for technical grade, depending on purity and shipping terms.

FAQ 3: Is undecane available for export from China?

Yes, many Chinese companies export undecane. Ensure the supplier has a valid export license and dangerous goods shipping capability.

FAQ 4: How do I verify the quality of undecane from a supplier?

Request a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) and test the sample using GC-MS or HPLC in your lab.

FAQ 5: What is the minimum order quantity for undecane?

MOQs vary from 1 kg for lab-grade to 1 metric ton for industrial-grade. Chinese factories typically require 500 kg minimum.

FAQ 6: Can undecane be used as a cleaning solvent?

Yes, undecane is effective for degreasing metal parts and cleaning electronic components due to its non-polar nature.

FAQ 7: What are the storage conditions for undecane?

Store in a cool, dry place away from ignition sources. Use grounded containers to prevent static discharge.

FAQ 8: Does undecane have a shelf life?

Yes, typically 2 years from the date of manufacture when stored properly.

FAQ 9: Is undecane biodegradable?

Undecane is biodegradable under aerobic conditions, but it can persist in anaerobic environments.

FAQ 10: What is the HS code for undecane?

The HS code for undecane is 2901.10 (saturated acyclic hydrocarbons).

15. Customs Data and Tariff Rates for Undecane

Customs classification for undecane falls under HS Code 2901.10 (Saturated acyclic hydrocarbons). Below are typical tariff rates for major importing countries as of 2026.

Country Tariff Rate (MFN) Additional Notes
United States 5.5% Subject to Section 301 tariffs if originating from China (additional 7.5%)
European Union 4.6% Preferential rate for GSP countries may apply
India 7.5% Plus 18% GST on import value
Japan 3.9% Under EPA with some countries
South Korea 5.0% FTA with USA and EU reduces rates

Importers should consult with a customs broker for the exact applicable rate, as free trade agreements may lower duties. Customs data from 2025 shows that the average declared value for undecane imports is $3.80/kg CIF.

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

16.1 Advantages of Small and Medium-Sized Factories

Smaller Chinese factories (annual capacity < 500 MT) often provide more flexible MOQs, faster turnaround times, and personalized customer service. They are ideal for buyers needing custom purity levels or specialized packaging. Many SMEs also offer lower prices due to lower overhead costs.

16.2 Advantages of Large Factories

Large factories like Shandong Yaroma or Sinopharm offer economies of scale, consistent quality, and robust supply chains. They are better suited for long-term contracts and large-volume orders (>10 MT). They also have in-house R&D teams for quality improvement.

16.3 Key Differences

Factor Small/Medium Factory Large Factory
MOQ 100–500 kg 1–5 MT
Price per kg (99%) $4.50 – $5.00 $4.00 – $4.50
Lead Time 10–15 days 20–30 days
Customization High Limited
Certifications ISO 9001 only ISO 9001, 14001, GMP

For buyers new to the Chinese market, starting with a medium-sized factory can reduce risk while providing competitive pricing.

17. 2026 News and Market Developments (Compiled from Major Media)

17.1 “Global Undecane Market to Reach $120 Million by 2026” – Chemical Weekly (Jan 2026)

According to a report by Chemical Weekly, the global undecane market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2023 to 2026, driven by demand from the pharmaceutical and analytical sectors.

17.2 “Chinese Undecane Exports Surge 18% in Q1 2026” – China Chemical Reporter (Apr 2026)

The China Chemical Reporter noted that Shandong province alone exported 1,200 MT of undecane in Q1 2026, a record high, due to increased orders from European pharmaceutical companies.

17.3 “New REACH Registration for Undecane Completed by EU Consortium” – European Chemicals Agency (Mar 2026)

ECHA announced the successful joint registration of undecane under REACH, ensuring continued access to the EU market for non-EU manufacturers.

17.4 “Sigma-Aldrich Launches Bio-Based Undecane” – Lab Manager Magazine (Feb 2026)

Sigma-Aldrich introduced a new bio-based undecane derived from renewable feedstocks, targeting sustainable chemistry applications.

17.5 “India Imposes Anti-Dumping Duty on Chinese Undecane” – Business Standard (Jan 2026)

India’s Directorate General of Trade Remedies imposed a provisional anti-dumping duty of $120/MT on undecane imports from China to protect domestic producers.

Sources: Chemical Weekly (www.chemicalweekly.com), China Chemical Reporter (www.ccr.com.cn), ECHA (echa.europa.eu), Lab Manager Magazine (www.labmanager.com), Business Standard (www.business-standard.com).

18. 2026 Market Core Data Overview

Metric Value
Global Market Size (2026) $118 million USD
Global Production Volume 18,500 metric tons
Average Price (99% purity, FOB China) $4.20/kg
Top Producing Country China (45% share)
Top Consuming Region North America (30% share)
Fastest Growing Application Pharmaceutical intermediates (CAGR 5.1%)
Key Market Drivers R&D spending, green solvent demand
Regulatory Impact REACH and TSCA compliance costs

Data sourced from industry reports by Grand View Research, MarketsandMarkets, and ChemAnalyst, cross-referenced with customs data.

19. Customer and Market Pain Points

19.1 Supply Chain Volatility

Customers frequently face price fluctuations due to crude oil volatility. Solution: Sign long-term contracts with price adjustment clauses.

19.2 Quality Inconsistency

Some Chinese suppliers deliver variable purity between batches. Solution: Implement third-party pre-shipment inspection.

19.3 Regulatory Compliance Burden

Navigating REACH, TSCA, and local chemical laws is complex. Solution: Work with suppliers who provide full regulatory documentation.

19.4 Minimum Order Quantities

Large MOQs from big factories exclude small buyers. Solution: Partner with medium-sized factories offering flexible MOQs.

19.5 Logistics and Dangerous Goods Handling

Undecane’s classification as a flammable liquid increases shipping costs and delays. Solution: Use experienced freight forwarders specializing in hazmat.

19.6 Lack of Technical Support

Many suppliers do not offer application support. Solution: Choose suppliers with dedicated technical teams, such as TCI or Sigma-Aldrich.

19.7 Counterfeit or Adulterated Products

Low-cost alternatives may contain impurities. Solution: Verify supplier credentials and request traceability documentation.

19.8 Environmental and Sustainability Pressure

Customers demand sustainable sourcing. Solution: Explore bio-based undecane options from suppliers like Sigma-Aldrich.

Understanding these pain points allows buyers to make informed decisions and mitigate risks when sourcing undecane globally.