Natural gas-based synthetic (gas-to-liquid) isoparaffins can be used in an incredibly broad cross-section of industries, although it is frequently an underutilized raw material.
Most manufacturers that purchase Shell GTL solvents, oils, and fuels have countless options for repurposing its use into new products, even whole new industries.
Recognizing the versatility of GTL isoparaffins is the first step toward exciting and profitable diversification opportunities. Here are just seven of several potential avenues.
1. Personal Care and Cosmetics
Key Benefits:
- Smooth texture
- Pure, non-greasy, silky feel
- Non-toxic
Isoparaffin is an ingredient most consumers of personal care products love, even if they aren’t aware of it. It makes products feel smooth and luxurious without clogging pores or causing irritation.
In skincare and cosmetics products, isoparaffins provide an ideal non-greasy, lightweight texture. They also enhance product stability and shelf life.
2. Household Cleaners and Polishes
Key Benefits:
- Low pour point
- Low viscosity and low surface tension
- Low volatility
As solvents, isoparaffins effectively dissolve dirt, oils, and contaminants in cleansers, leaving surfaces clean and residue-free.
In polishes, their typically low viscosity enhances the spreadability of the product, and they also provide a consistently glossy finish.
3. Industrial Production Aids
Key Benefits:
- Low reactivity
- Stable
- Safe
In aluminum rolling oils, isoparaffins serve as excellent lubricants, reducing friction during the rolling process and enhancing metal quality. As defoamers in water treatment, isoparaffins effectively eliminate foam, ensuring efficient water purification.
In metalworking fluids, they provide cooling and lubrication, extending tool life and improving machining precision. They’re also ideal dust suppressants, effectively controlling airborne particles in construction and mining, enhancing workplace safety and environmental conditions.
4. Inks, Paints, and Aerosols
Key Benefits:
- Eco-friendly
- Odorless
- Colorless
As solvents, isoparaffins help disperse pigments and resins, contributing to color consistency and coating durability. They also aid in quick drying and reduce the risk of wrinkling or blistering in coatings. They’re safe for human contact and readily biodegradable as well.
In aerosols, their consistent vapor pressure facilitates even spray patterns. Moreover, isoparaffins are non-reactive and stable, ensuring product shelf life. Their odorlessness and low volatility ensure minimal fumes, improving the working environment.
5. Sealants
Key Benefits:
- Odorless
- Non-toxic
- Low volatility (VOC exempt)
- Stable
When used as solvents, isoparaffins improve the spreadability and sealing properties of sealants, resulting in more durable and long-lasting seals. Low volatility means sealants keep their form and do not contract. For silicone sealants, GTL solvents act as extenders, improving the cost basis.
Shell GTL isoparaffins are odorless and non-toxic, making them suitable for various types of adhesives and sealants, used in households, construction sites, automotive interiors, and more. Their stable chemical composition also ensures product integrity over time.
6. Lighter Fluid/Fuel
Key Benefits:
- High flash point
- Low odor
- Low volatility
Featuring a high flash point, GTL isoparaffins ignite easily and burn cleanly, producing a hot and consistent flame. They also have a low odor when burned, which enhances the user experience.
Their stable composition ensures reliable performance and longer shelf life for lighter fluids and similar household fuel products. They’re also less volatile than other hydrocarbons, reducing the risk of accidental ignition or leakage.
7. Heat Sink Fluids
Key Benefits:
- Thermal stability
- High flash point
- Low volatility
The high thermal stability and excellent heat transfer properties of isoparaffins make them ideal coolants for dissipating heat efficiently in electronic devices and industrial applications. GTL isoparaffins are excellent electrical insulators, even allowing immersion cooling for electronic devices. They have a wide liquid temperature range, which helps ensure consistent performance.
Their low volatility reduces the risk of fluid loss and the need for frequent refilling. They’re also non-corrosive, preventing damage to heat sink components. Moreover, isoparaffins are chemically stable, extending the lifespan of the heat sink fluid.
Learn More About Versatile and Eco-Friendly Shell GTL Isoparaffins from Renkert Oil
Whether you’re thinking about entering a new market or just looking for the best isoparaffins for your existing product line, Renkert Oil product consultants are here to help.
We’re proud to offer Shell GTL solvents and fluids, which offer the best of so many desirable characteristics across virtually every industry we serve.
Beyond product efficacy, Shell GTL products are also engineered with an environmentally friendly process:
- Readily biodegradable (lightly-isomerized)
- Low ecotoxicity (pure natural gas sources)
- Low potential of ozone formation
- Low impact natural gas feedstock
Ready to learn more? Contact Renkert Oil today.