Substance profile
Heptan-3-one
Heptan-3-one is a clear liquid with a green odor.
01 · Identification
What Heptan-3-one is
Heptan-3-one is a clear liquid with a green odor. Its molecular formula is C7H14O and its molecular weight is 114.19 g/mol. It boils at 147 °C, melts at -39 °C.
Under the GHS it carries the signal word Warning. It is classed as flammable agents - 2nd degree.
Other names for Heptan-3-one
- butyl ethyl ketone
02 · GHS classification
Hazards and label elements
Harmonised classification under CLP Annex VI. This is the legally binding classification in the EU; other jurisdictions may differ.
| Code | Hazard statement |
|---|---|
| H226 | Flammable liquid and vapour. |
| H332 | Harmful if inhaled. |
| H319 | Causes serious eye irritation. |
Precautionary statements: P210, P233, P241, P242, P260, P264, P271, P280, P304, P305, P312, P313, P337, P338, P403
03 · Physical and chemical properties
Heptan-3-one properties
Every value is shown with the conditions it was measured under and the source it came from. Where sources disagree, all values are listed rather than one being picked — the difference is usually a different form of the substance, not an error.
| Property | Value | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boiling point | 147 °C (296.6 °F) | HSDB | |
| 147.78 °C (298 °F) | NIOSH | ||
| 147.22 °C (297 °F) | at 760 mmHg | CAMEO | |
| Melting point | -39 °C (-38.2 °F) | HSDB | |
| -38.89 °C (-38 °F) | NIOSH | ||
| Density | 0.8148 g/cm³ | HSDB | |
| 0.82 g/cm³ | NIOSH | ||
| 0.8183 g/cm³ | at 20 °C | HSDB | |
| Solubility | Slightyl soluble in carbon tetrachloride; miscible in ethanol, ether | HSDB | |
| 1% | NIOSH | ||
| In water, 4.3X10+3 mg/L at 20 °C | at 20 °C | HSDB | |
| Vapor pressure | 4 mmHg | NIOSH | |
| 2.6 mmHg | at 20 °C | HSDB | |
| Flash point | 46.11 °C (115 °F) | HSDB | |
| Lower explosive limit (LEL) | 1.4 % by volume | HSDB | |
| Upper explosive limit (UEL) | 8.8 % by volume | HSDB | |
| Vapor density | 3.93 (air = 1) | HSDB | |
| 3.9 (air = 1) | ICSC | ||
| Odor threshold | Odor Threshold Low: 0.1 [ppm] | Haz-Map | |
| Odor Threshold High: 10.0 [ppm] | Haz-Map | ||
| Odor threshold from "Quick Guide: The Electronic NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards" | Haz-Map |
Values compiled from PubChem Laboratory Chemical Safety Summary. Temperatures converted to Fahrenheit for reference.
04 · Handling and storage
Storing and handling Heptan-3-one
Storage conditions
Prior to working with this chemical you should be trained on its proper handling and storage. Ethyl butyl ketone must be stored to avoid contact with oxidizers such as peroxides, chlorates, perchlorates, permanganates, and nitrates, because violent reactions occur. Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, well-ventilated area away form heat. Sources of ignition such as smoking and open flames are prohibited where ethyl butyl ketone is used, handled, or stored in a manner that could create a potential fire or explosion hazard.
Source: Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
Incompatible materials
Forms explosive mixture with air. Violent reaction with strong oxidizers, acetaldehyde, perchloric acid. Attacks some plastics, rubber, and coatings.
Source: Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
Reactivity
ETHYL BUTYL KETONE is reactive with many acids and bases liberating heat and flammable gases (e.g., H2). The amount of heat may be sufficient to start a fire in the unreacted portion. Reacts with reducing agents such as hydrides, alkali metals, and nitrides to produce flammable gas (H2) and heat. Incompatible with isocyanates, aldehydes, cyanides, peroxides, and anhydrides. May react violently with aldehydes, HNO3, HNO3 + H2O2, and HClO4. Irritating vapors and toxic gases may be formed when involved in fire (USCG, 1999).
Source: CAMEO Chemicals
Planning storage for a mix of chemicals? Check Heptan-3-one in the storage compatibility matrix →