Isooctane 100 is a mixture of C8 isoparaffins which contains virtually no aromatics or sulphur compounds. At least 90% of the product consists of 2,2,4-trimethylpentane.
Isooctane 100 has a range of properties including low toxicity, lack of colour, high colour stability, low odour, rapid evaporation /drying which makes it an excellent solvent for a variety of surface applications. It has found particular use in the extraction of fats.
A major use is as a reference fuel, used in the development of new petrol (gasoline) blends. The fuel ‘octane’ number, familiar from the garage forecourt, is based on the 2,2,4-trimethylpentane standard.