Butane-Based LPG is a refined hydrocarbon fuel consisting predominantly of n-butane (C₄H₁₀), obtained during natural gas processing and crude oil refining.
It is stored and transported as a liquid under low to moderate pressure and vaporizes rapidly when released to atmospheric conditions.
Due to its high volumetric energy density, clean combustion, and lower storage pressure, butane-based LPG is widely preferred in residential cooking, commercial kitchens, aerosol applications, chemical processing, and industries operating in moderate or warm climates.
Chemical Composition & Fuel Quality
Primary Component: n-Butane (typically ≥95%)
Isomers: Small traces of iso-butane
Impurities: Negligible sulfur, moisture, and unsaturated hydrocarbons
Odorant: Ethyl mercaptan added for leak detection
Corrosivity: Non-corrosive to steel, aluminum, and copper alloys
High purity ensures stable flame characteristics, consistent pressure behavior, and long equipment life.
Key Characteristics of Butane-Based LPG
High Energy Density (Volumetric Advantage)
Delivers 27–28 MJ per liter, higher than propane on a volumetric basis.
Ideal for space-constrained storage such as kitchens, food trucks, and portable cylinders.
Clean & Smokeless Combustion
No ash, soot, or smoke
Extremely low SOₓ and particulate emissions
Suitable for food preparation, pharmaceuticals, laboratories, and clean industrial processes.
Low Pressure Storage & Handling
Liquefies at significantly lower pressure than propane, reducing stress on cylinders, valves, and piping.
Improves safety, cost efficiency, and equipment longevity.
Best Suited for Warm & Mild Climates
Boiling point: –0.5°C
Vaporization efficiency decreases in cold climates; often blended with propane in colder regions.
Economical & Widely Available
Generally lower cost than propane and easily sourced through refinery LPG streams.
Typical Mechanical & Physical Properties
| Property | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C₄H₁₀ |
| Molecular Weight | 58.12 g/mol |
| Boiling Point | –0.5°C |
| Vapor Pressure @ 20°C | ~2.1 bar |
| Liquid Density | 0.58 – 0.60 kg/L |
| Calorific Value | 27 – 28 MJ/L |
| Flash Point | –60°C |
| Auto-Ignition Temperature | 350 – 460°C |
| Flammability Range | 1.6% – 8.5% |
| Flame Temperature | ~1,970°C |
Storage, Transport & Supply Formats
Cylinders
5 kg to 33 kg – homes, restaurants, food trucks, small kitchens
Bulk / Lorry Load Supply
Industrial heating, textiles, ceramics, glass factories
ISO Tank Containers
Import/export and continuous industrial consumption
Bottling & Private Label Supply
Custom filling, branding, and regulatory support
Applications of Butane-Based LPG
Residential
Cooking, water heaters, space heating (warm regions), backup fuel
Commercial
Hotels, restaurants, catering, bakeries, food trucks, laundries
Industrial
Metal heating, ceramics, glass, textiles, plastics, pharmaceuticals, aerosols
Agriculture
Crop drying, greenhouse heating, fumigation, food processing
Comparison: Butane vs Propane
| Parameter | Butane LPG | Propane LPG |
|---|---|---|
| Boiling Point | –0.5°C | –42°C |
| Storage Pressure | Lower | Higher |
| Cold Climate Suitability | Poor | Excellent |
| Volumetric Energy | Higher | Slightly Lower |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Best Use | Warm climates, indoor | Cold climates, outdoor |
Safety & Compliance
Odorized for leak detection
Adequate ventilation required
Cylinders fitted with pressure relief valves
Complies with IS / EN / ASTM LPG standards and local gas safety regulations.
Advantages Summary
✔ High energy per liter
✔ Clean combustion
✔ Low storage pressure
✔ Cost-effective
✔ Ideal for indoor and commercial use
✔ Minimal maintenance
Butane-Based LPG is a high-efficiency, clean, and economical fuel best suited for warm climates and controlled indoor applications.