nDodecane

n-Dodecane, also written as n-dodecane, is a straight-chain alkane with the chemical formula C12H26. It belongs to the paraffin family of hydrocarbons and occurs naturally in crude oil as a component of the heavier fractions and of some refined fuels, including diesel and jet fuels. It is used industrially as a solvent and as a chemical feedstock, and it serves as a calibration standard in gas chromatography due to its well-defined volatility.

In terms of physical properties, n-dodecane is a colorless, nonpolar liquid at room temperature. It is immiscible with water and soluble in common organic solvents. Its boiling point is around 216 °C, and its density is about 0.75 g/cm3 at 20 °C. As with other long-chain alkanes, it is relatively chemically inert under normal conditions but can be oxidized under strong conditions.

Production and occurrence: n-Dodecane is produced during the refining of crude oil, typically found in the heavier hydrocarbon fractions. It can also be prepared by synthetic methods such as Fischer–Tropsch synthesis or via catalytic upgrading of longer alkanes.

Safety and environment: n-Dodecane is flammable and should be handled with appropriate precautions to avoid ignition. It can act as an irritant to skin and eyes and may be hazardous if inhaled in high concentrations. In the environment, it is largely hydrophobic and may persist in soils and sediments; spills should be contained to limit dispersion.