γ-Valerolactone (99%)
Product Profile
Apply for Sample| Names | |
|---|---|
| Preferred IUPAC name | 5-Methyloxolan-2-one |
| Pronunciation | /ˌɡæm.ə væl.ə.roʊˈlæk.tɒn/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | 108-29-2 |
| Beilstein Reference | 104171 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:49149 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL42636 |
| ChemSpider | 55339 |
| DrugBank | DB08339 |
| ECHA InfoCard | 03abc14e-2c3e-4c41-afb2-c1e08e226c50 |
| EC Number | 202-509-5 |
| Gmelin Reference | 135491 |
| KEGG | C02320 |
| MeSH | D000695 |
| PubChem CID | 73064 |
| RTECS number | MD2450000 |
| UNII | 8M4PE2MW0M |
| UN number | UN2390 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C5H8O2 |
| Molar mass | 100.12 g/mol |
| Appearance | Clear colorless to yellow liquid |
| Odor | Fruity |
| Density | 1.057 g/mL at 25 °C (lit.) |
| Solubility in water | miscible |
| log P | 0.30 |
| Vapor pressure | 3.5 hPa (20 °C) |
| Acidity (pKa) | 4.7 |
| Basicity (pKb) | pKb: 15.0 |
| Magnetic susceptibility (χ) | -6.55 × 10⁻⁶ cm³/mol |
| Refractive index (nD) | 1.437 |
| Viscosity | 13 mPa·s (25 °C) |
| Dipole moment | 4.44 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | 172.6 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298) | -589.1 kJ/mol |
| Std enthalpy of combustion (ΔcH⦵298) | −2433 kJ/mol |
| Pharmacology | |
| ATC code | N01AX14 |
| Hazards | |
| GHS labelling | GHS02, GHS07 |
| Pictograms | GHS02,GHS07 |
| Signal word | Warning |
| Hazard statements | H315, H319, H335 |
| Precautionary statements | P280-P305+P351+P338-P310 |
| NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | 1-1-0 |
| Flash point | 113 °C |
| Autoignition temperature | 420 °C |
| Explosive limits | 3.4–16% |
| Lethal dose or concentration | LD50 oral rat 3200 mg/kg |
| LD50 (median dose) | LD50 (median dose): Oral rat LD50: 2,250 mg/kg |
| NIOSH | Not listed |
| PEL (Permissible) | Not established |
| REL (Recommended) | 95.2 |
| IDLH (Immediate danger) | Not established |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds | α-Angelica lactone β-Butyrolactone |
Chemical ID: CAS Formula HS Code Database
γ-Valerolactone (99%)
Product Identification |
|
|---|---|
| Product Name | γ-Valerolactone (99%) |
| IUPAC Name | 5-Methyldihydrofuran-2(3H)-one |
| Chemical Formula | C5H8O2 |
| CAS Number | 108-29-2 |
| Synonyms & Trade Names | GVL, Dihydro-5-methyl-2(3H)-furanone, 4-Pentanolide, 4-Hydroxyvaleric acid lactone |
| HS Code & Customs Classification | 2932.29 (Lactones, other than coumarin, under the harmonized system) |
Industrial Manufacturing Context
γ-Valerolactone regularly emerges from refining or hydrogenation processes starting with levulinic acid, furfural, or related biomass-derived feedstocks. Manufacturers often prioritize feedstock traceability and residue content at the raw material pre-approval stage because compositional differences in the upstream biomass or intermediary acids will impact downstream process efficiency, impurity profile, and batch consistency. Sourcing with transparent analytics on byproduct burdens from both petrochemical and renewable supply chains gives greater leverage over the risk profile in the final product.
Hydrogenation/hydrogenolysis routes can lead to variable amounts of oligomeric byproducts or over-reduced compounds, so continuous in-process analytic control (typically by GC, HPLC, and mass balance reconciliation) forms a routine checkpoint on commercial lines. Quality-driven manufacturers set release criteria after monitoring for low levels of levulinic acid, valeric acid, and residual catalyst traces; customizable thresholds may be imposed depending on contract grade (technical vs high-purity vs pharmaceutical or food-contact scenarios).
The 99% content signified on grade is not just a marketing statement; analytical data generated from production-scale batches underpins this, linked directly to batch record documentation. Internal reference standards for γ-Valerolactone are prepared and periodically validated in laboratories to defend analytical reproducibility.
Grade-Dependent and Application-Sensitive Properties
γ-Valerolactone properties often pivot on grade requirements: solvent, flavoring, extraction intermediate, or specialty chemical feedstock roles each carry distinct impurity and quality benchmarks. Storage behavior is sensitive to water-content and temperature cycling; certain downstream processes, especially those used in battery electrolytes or specialty polymer synthesis, cannot tolerate hydroxyl acid or lactone hydrolysis byproducts above single-digit ppm concentrations. This drives customized drying and packaging protocols, including the use of inert atmospheres or lined drums.
Stability during transport and formulation relates less to chemical reactivity than to the lot’s moisture, acid value, and packaging integrity. End users in advanced industries typically request supporting documentation on trace solvent and secondary component levels, not just nominal purity.
HS Code & Trade Focus
The customs classification under HS 2932.29 reflects lactones not otherwise specified. Customs handling in different export regions can require supporting documentation with explicit identification down to process origin and impurity profiles, especially for sensitive end-use scenarios. Producers routinely provide product stewardship declarations and grade-specific molecular identity reports with shipment documentation to prevent misclassification or regulatory hurdles.
Technical Properties, Manufacturing Process & Safety Guidelines for γ-Valerolactone (99%)
Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State & Appearance
γ-Valerolactone typically appears as a clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic mild odor during production-scale operations. Melting point and boiling point are subject to purity, grade, and the presence of low-level by-products; industrial grades may vary slightly in appearance depending on storage conditions and grade specification. For high-purity batches used in solvent or specialty chemical applications, consistent clarity without visible particulates or tints is essential. Density and refractive index are measured routinely as batch-release checks, as minor variation can reflect trace impurities or thermal history.
Chemical Stability & Reactivity
In the context of manufacturing and bulk handling, γ-valerolactone demonstrates chemical stability under closed-system conditions and absence of strong acids or bases. Hydrolysis risk increases with persistent exposure to moisture, particularly in open storage or poorly sealed drums. Batch shelf life depends on minimizing atmospheric ingress and contact with incompatible materials, as acid/base contamination can trigger decomposition or ring-opening side reactions.
Solubility & Solution Preparation
γ-Valerolactone displays full miscibility with water in most grades, but solubility behavior may change with temperature and in the presence of trace heavy impurities. In downstream applications such as solvents, formulation and solution clarity are verified by direct dilution and turbidity observation. Precipitate formation or phase separation points to the presence of high molecular weight by-products or incomplete distillation, triggering batch investigation or reprocessing.
Technical Specifications & Quality Parameters
Specification Table by Grade
Specification criteria for γ-valerolactone are determined by intended application, such as use in fine chemicals, solvents, or research. Typical specification parameters include assay, water content, color, and specific impurity limits relevant to route or end-use. High-purity (99%) grade targets the lowest feasible levels of ring-opened acids, aldehydes, and oligomers, controlled by process and purification design.
Impurity Profile & Limits
Impurity profiles reflect raw material choice and process controls. Principal impurities include residual levulinic acid, organic acids, and oligomeric side products arising from overcondensation or incomplete lactonization. Specific impurity limits are documented internally and validated against end-user requirements; batch release is based on a combination of chromatographic and wet-chemical analyses.
Test Methods & Standards
Each batch receives inspection by GC/FID for assay and organic impurities, Karl Fischer titration for water content, and spectrophotometric/colorimetric methods for color. The final release standard relies on a combination of in-house and, where relevant, referenced standards based on customer or regulatory requirements. Auditable documentation and sample retention are held for traceability.
Preparation Methods & Manufacturing Process
Raw Materials & Sourcing
Production of γ-valerolactone centers on catalytic conversion of levulinic acid, typically sourced from biomass hydrolysate or refined petrochemical intermediates. Selection of feedstock is influenced by cost, supply chain stability, and traceability. Only suppliers meeting agreed contaminant and origin disclosure criteria are qualified, given the downstream implications for impurity burden and trace by-product risk.
Synthesis Route & Reaction Mechanism
The main reaction route utilizes catalytic hydrogenation of levulinic acid followed by intramolecular esterification. Catalyst choice—such as noble metal on carbon or transition metal complexes—impacts reaction selectivity and impurity formation. The reaction mechanism is closely monitored; sub-optimal hydrogen pressure or temperature tends to produce undesired condensation products or incompletely reduced intermediates.
Process Control & Purification
Key control points include real-time monitoring of reaction pressure, hydrogen uptake, and intermediate purity. Distillation under reduced pressure removes water and low-boiling by-products. Multiple passes or staged vacuum distillation may be required for the highest-purity outputs. Residual catalyst and trace metal levels are capped by both regulatory and customer threshold values, so post-reaction filtration/adsorption is employed.
Quality Control & Batch Release
Process analytical technology (PAT) and end-point assays guide batch transfer decisions. Only batches passing all release criteria—assay, color, impurity, odor, and water—advance for packaging or shipment. Archived samples and analytic records underpin customer support and regulatory auditability.
Chemical Reactions & Modification Potential
Typical Reactions
γ-Valerolactone undergoes nucleophilic ring-opening, catalytic hydrogenation, and transesterification, forming the basis for downstream products including pentanediol and various functionalized esters. Unsaturated or functional group transformations are carried out under tightly controlled conditions to contain side reactions.
Reaction Conditions (Catalyst, Temperature, Solvent)
Effective conversion or modification requires careful catalyst selection—copper, ruthenium, or palladium are often used in hydrogenations. Reaction temperature impacts both conversion rate and by-product formation; excessive heat promotes oligomerization. Solvent use, when required, reflects the reactivity, with polar aprotic choices minimizing ring-opening side reactions.
Derivatives & Downstream Products
The production of derivatives—including open-chain acids, alcohols, esters, and polymer precursors—depends on both purity grade and choice of reaction partner. Side reactions and trace impurities can limit catalyst lifetime or affect final product utility, so pre-treatment or further purification is sometimes justified for high-value applications.
Storage & Shelf Life
Storage Conditions (Temperature, Humidity, Light Avoidance, Gas Protection)
γ-Valerolactone benefits from storage in dry, inert, and light-protected environments. High humidity or direct sunlight accelerates hydrolysis and color changes. Nitrogen blanketing is favored in long-term storage, especially for material destined for food contact or pharmaceutical precursor use, to minimize atmospheric effects and water uptake.
Container Compatibility
Preferred packaging uses stainless steel, glass, or high-integrity polymer drums/IBCs lined for chemical resistance. Ordinary mild steel or low-grade plastics increase risk of extractables, leaching, or corrosion, which impacts product stability and appearance.
Shelf Life & Degradation Signs
Shelf life remains product- and condition-dependent. Elevated color, increased water content, formation of solid deposits, or shifts in odor profile signal degradation or contamination. Regular retesting is standard for inventory held beyond 12 months or after bulk repackaging.
Safety & Toxicity Profile
GHS Classification
γ-Valerolactone handling draws on global harmonized system frameworks, with hazard identification validated against production batch toxicity data and regulatory updates. Safety classification adapts to grade, packaging, and end-market (chemical, cosmetic, or food use).
Hazard & Precautionary Statements
Operator protection focuses on eye and skin contact minimization. Engineering control measures are prioritized for bulk loading/unloading and process upsets. Spill response centers on secondary containment and compatibility with standard absorption and cleaning regimens.
Toxicity Data
Acute toxicity evaluations rely on both legacy published data and batch-confirmed impurity absence. Chronic exposure or large-scale inhalation hazards are addressed via closed transfer systems, forced ventilation, and occupational monitoring during scale-up or maintenance.
Exposure Limits & Handling
Worker exposure limits—and necessary PPE—are defined according to local regulation and customer-imposed requirements. Open handling scenarios consider splash, vapor, and inhalation risk. Training covers both normal operation and unusual incident response, incorporating learnings from historical incident and near-miss reports.
γ-Valerolactone (99%): Supply Capacity, Commercial Terms & 2026 Price Trend Forecast
Supply Capacity & Commercial Terms
Production Capacity & Availability
As a primary manufacturer, production output of γ-Valerolactone (GVL, 99%) links directly with feedstock availability, current operational mode (batch vs. continuous), and targeted product grade. Supply capacity often reflects not only reactor throughput but also the specifics of purification stages, with upgraded polishing steps required for demanding downstream applications. Typical plant lines run multiple campaigns per year, dedicated or multipurpose, balancing solvent inventory and tank loading. Seasonal demand peaks—especially from regions with active bioplastics or solvent applications—may tighten spot availability if upstream raw material continuity faces logistical disruptions.
Lead Time & MOQ
Lead times depend on existing production planning and real-time inventory. For standard 99% industrial grade, average lead time runs 7–21 days for domestic delivery, longer for custom grade orders requiring additional purification or documentation. Minimum order quantities reflect both the configuration (bulk ISO tank, drum, IBC) and the risks associated with partial batch dispatch, usually starting at one drum but subject to logistical constraints for export orders. Clients requiring tailored batch certification or specific impurity profile documentation should confirm lead time at the inquiry stage.
Packaging Options
Standard supply is in lined steel drums or HDPE containers due to GVL’s solvent nature. Packaging can shift based on end-use market—pharma or electronics grades may demand smaller volume sealed containers with enhanced lot traceability. For bulk volume shipments (≥5 MT), ISO tanks provide lower per-kg logistics cost, but require end-user storage compatibility.
Shipping & Payment Terms
Domestic shipments typically fulfill EXW or FCA warehouse terms; international orders mostly move under FOB or CIF with payment terms agreed based on credit review and trading history. Pre-payment or L/C dominates for initial transactions, with credit terms negotiable for established partners. Export documentation includes COA, MSDS, and, depending on end market, additional certification (RoHS, REACH).
Pricing Structure & Influencing Factors
Raw Material Cost Composition & Fluctuation Causes
Feedstock cost, particularly furfural and hydrogenation intermediates, drives GVL ex-works pricing. When regional supply chains tighten—due to energy price spikes, natural gas constraints, or changes to agricultural output affecting furfural—input cost volatility transmits almost immediately to downstream pricing. Hydrogen price shifts, linked to utility grid rates or green H2 credits in some regions, remain a secondary but growing driver.
Compliance with Graded Price Differences
Pricing reflects not only purity but also batch homogeneity, documented impurity thresholds (acidity, water, residual aromatics), and end-market compliance. GMP-grade and electronic application GVL involves more resource-intensive QC, validated purification, and extended stability/safety documentation, pushing up per-kg price versus standard technical or industrial grades.
Product Price Difference Explanation: Core Influence of Grade, Purity, & Packaging Certification
Batches destined for regulated or high-specification markets (pharmaceutical, food contact, electronic cleaning) demand tighter control of residuals and trace contaminants. Extending distillation or adsorption steps yields higher purity, but at reduced throughput and higher energy intensity, reflected directly in cost structure. Packaging requirements—especially tamper-evident closures or validated cleaning—add another premium, especially for export markets with stricter import regimes.
Global Market Analysis & Price Trends
Global Supply & Demand Overview
Global GVL demand tracks closely with new materials research pipelines and shifts with regulatory status in solvents and green chemistry transitions. Asia, particularly China, retains dominant installed capacity, but North America and EU maintain steady import needs, especially for higher-grade applications. Supply-demand tightness arises from upstream raw material supply disruptions, as seen in seasons when furfural producer output dips or energy markets spike. Spot purchasing activity often increases in response to downstream project launches or regulatory grants for bio-based solvents.
Key Economies Analysis (US/EU/JP/IN/CN)
China leads with export capacity and flexible grades, supported by steady furfural streams. The US focuses more on high-value applications, favoring tighter impurity control. The EU market often demands the broadest certification scope, especially for GVL intended for downstream bio-polymer applications under REACH. Japanese procurement emphasizes lot-to-lot consistency, with export orders requiring standardized documentation and impurity profile traceability. Indian usage skews toward technical grades for agrochemical and intermediate applications, with sporadic import needs for high-purity lots.
2026 Price Trend Forecast, Data Sources & Methodology
Across key economies, GVL price direction through 2026 ties directly to stability in raw material channels and downstream demand expansion, especially from emerging “green” solvent policies in the US and EU. Historical price data reflects a pattern of baseline stability punctuated by sharp upward movements during feedstock market shocks or regulatory reclassifications. If furfural production remains steady, only moderate price drift is expected. Should upstream bio-feedstock policy, energy tariffs, or environmental controls disrupt base input flows, sharper swings may return. Forecasts incorporate feedstock futures data, contract price movements, and logistics indices, triangulated through both public-facing and internal supply chain records.
Industry News & Regulatory Updates
Recent Market Developments
Sector expansion in advanced polymers and green solvents continues to drive interest in higher-purity GVL, spurring upgrades in purification and batch validation systems at several sites during the past year. New entrants from Southeast Asia have sought to capitalize on local furfural feedstock advantages, although logistics challenges remain for export markets outside APAC.
Regulatory Compliance Updates
Regulations around solvent classification and allowable residues are under review in multiple jurisdictions—especially for food contact and cosmetic applications—prompting tighter control on process impurities and batch contamination. REACH and TSCA registration now routinely covers not only base product but also packaging migration study data, requiring coordination between production teams, QC, and downstream validators.
Supplier Response & Mitigation
Manufacturers are investing in process control automation, real-time purity analytics, and forward supply contracting with furfural producers to hedge against sudden feedstock disruptions. Training and internal reviews reinforce batch traceability, while cross-functional teams address customer-specific needs for export documentation, impurity limits, and notification of specification changes. Major production sites have re-evaluated supplier qualification and established multi-source risk reduction strategies to support contract reliability through changing market conditions.
γ-Valerolactone (99%): Application Fields & Grade Selection Guide
Application Fields & Grade Matching Guide
Industry Applications
γ-Valerolactone (GVL) intersects with diverse industrial sectors. In chemical synthesis, GVL works as a sustainable solvent and intermediate, supporting biomass-derived routes for fine chemicals and green solvents. Its miscibility with water and common organic solvents drives preference in catalytic transformations and as a platform molecule for value-added derivatives. In electronic materials and coatings, the low volatility and high purity profile favor its adoption over traditional solvents. In the flavor and fragrance field, well-validated grades contribute low-odor and safe solvent alternatives, subject to compliance with food contact standards where required.
Pharmaceutical process engineers select GVL for specific steps in reaction media, particularly where stringent impurity controls are necessary. In battery research, research-scale and pilot production rely on controlled-grade GVL for safe system validation.
Grade-to-Application Mapping
| Application Area | Recommended Grade | Key Control Parameters |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Synthesis (Solvent/Intermediate) | Industrial grade, 99% | PURITY, water content, organic residue profile |
| Pharmaceutical Process | High-purity, GMP or validated batch | TRACE IMPURITIES, heavy metal assay, residual solvents |
| Flavor & Fragrance | Food-contact compliant grade | SENSORY properties, food-grade residue limits |
| Battery Electrolyte R&D | Electronic or battery-grade | CONDUCTIVITY, metal ion content, water content |
| Green Solvents | Standard industrial or custom low-residue | VOLATILES, odor, non-target organics |
Key Parameters by Application
In industrial chemistry and synthesis, batch impurity control and water content adjustments determine suitability for downstream process efficiency. Pharmaceutical use cases prioritize consistent identity/assay data, with batch traceability and cross-contamination controls. Flavors and fragrances require lot-level sensory evaluation and compliance with relevant residue limits. In advanced energy and materials science work, precise ionic and trace contaminant data is necessary for predictable electrochemical performance.
Storage and handling requirements stem from grade-specific volatility, moisture uptake, and reactivity. Downstream users report packaging preference for sealed drums or totes, inert gas overlay, and clearly identified lot traceability for audit purposes.
How to Select the Right Grade
Step 1: Define Application
Review project goals and application category. Syntheses, formulations, or energy applications set the baseline grade expectation. Clarify whether the use is process-scale, pilot, or includes human or food contact.
Step 2: Identify Regulatory Requirements
Check for compliance mandates. Pharmaceutical, food, or electronics fields often reference country-specific purity or documentation levels. Confirm if recognized certification (e.g., GMP, ISO) is specified in purchasing or regulatory filings.
Step 3: Evaluate Purity Needs
Ask for recent batch COA and impurity/degradation profiles matching your application tolerance. In critical applications, discuss need for additional elemental, NVR, or residual solvent data. High-sensitivity downstream systems benefit from lot-specific analytical data and pre-delivery retest.
Step 4: Consider Volume & Budget
Quantify batch or campaign size. Routine industrial use often opts for standard 99% grade, balancing cost and process efficiency. Laboratories, pilot lines, and regulated industries trend toward validated or custom-packed lots, with additional cost for expanded release testing or smaller packaging.
Step 5: Request Sample for Validation
Initiate a sample order for in-house process simulation or routine analysis. Request matching QC documentation, including batch history and analytical methods file as available. Pilot-scale runs and multi-step syntheses benefit from a two-stage approval: analytical confirmation and process yield validation.
Trust & Compliance: Quality Certifications & Procurement Support for γ-Valerolactone (99%)
Quality Compliance & Certifications
Quality Management Certifications
Quality assurance for γ-Valerolactone starts with an integrated management system anchored in recognized standards. Management protocols are routinely audited for compliance with internationally acknowledged quality frameworks, including ISO 9001. Production teams undergo regular review cycles to maintain data traceability and corrective action logs. All analytical laboratories supporting γ-Valerolactone output are subject to operational qualification and instrument calibration. Procedures for documentation control, batch-release, and deviation management follow written SOPs aligned with the system. Gaps identified during surveillance audits lead to immediate root-cause analysis and formal CAPA tracking.
Product-Specific Certifications
For γ-Valerolactone, assessment points include purity, by-product levels, and permitted ancillary substances. Certificate of Analysis (COA) accompanies each shipment, summarizing batch-wise physical and chemical parameters. Where needed for regulatory use, our compliance team will support the collation of product registration dossiers, food contact statements, or statements of origin. Non-standard requirements, such as compliance with halogen content limits, PAH restrictions, or pharmaceutical GMP constraints, are addressed on a project basis with customer engagement in the validation loop.
Documentation & Reports
Every shipment generates a batch file containing production log, analytical results, and packaging chain-of-custody. Analytical results include chromatographic profiles typical for a 99% grade γ-Valerolactone, with retention of raw instrument files for retrospective review where required. SDS documentation is maintained according to current GHS adaptation and regional updates. Periodic reviews of stability and impurity drift are included in long-term quality monitoring programs, which feed back into process control adjustment. All documentation requests—such as extended technical dossiers, regulatory answers, and traceability statements—are subject to manufacturer sign-off to ensure technical accuracy and legal defensibility.
Purchase Cooperation Instructions
Stable Production Capacity Supply and Flexible Business Cooperation Plan
Batch manufacturing volumes for γ-Valerolactone are dictated by scheduled campaign planning and downstream order book requirements. Flexibility in production scaling comes from dedicated synthesis units, automated distillation lines, and modular packaging lines that allow for shift-based throughput adjustment. For ongoing supply, long-term partners benefit from logistically optimized call-off agreements and buffer stock at key distribution sites. On-demand supply adapts in real time to material inventory and raw material logistics. Capacity matching for customer demand spikes is managed with both core production assets and contracted auxiliary blending.
Core Production Capacity and Stable Supply Capability
Production lines use a raw material procurement strategy built on multi-vendor qualification and continuous monitoring of critical input specifications. Feedstock purity, moisture content, and trace catalyst carryover are controlled through robust incoming inspection and in-process controls. Impurity management includes by-product stripping, rectification of off-fractions, and tight recycling protocols. Finished γ-Valerolactone is lot-tracked from receipt of raw inputs through final drum or IBC consignment. Volume commitments in supply contracts are backstopped by continuous improvement projects in yield optimization and energy use efficiency, which enable consistent output reliability.
Sample Application Process
Sample requests are managed under a formal application protocol: application details are authenticated and checked against permitted end-use and region. Typical sample size and delivery mode vary by testing purpose, production trial scale, or regulatory review requirement. Technical representatives review the intended analytical or process-development use, ensuring the correct grade and format. Every sample ships with current COA and, on request, a full analytical method sheet. Feedback from evaluation trials feeds into future process adjustment discussions, with traceability to original batch data.
Detailed Explanation of Flexible Cooperation Mode
Cooperation terms adapt to volume tiers, delivery schedules, technical support intensity, and compliance needs. Partners in downstream formulation development receive technical support for compatibility and performance validation, direct access to process engineers, and optional joint improvement projects. For dynamic orders, release calendars and rolling forecasts stabilize both manufacturing lead time and logistics. Non-standard packaging, documentation, or supply chain route requests initiate a cross-functional review involving operations, logistics, and compliance. Every cooperation model aims to align both commercial expectations and technical delivery, rooting all flexibility in actual plant capability and risk assessment.
γ-Valerolactone (99%)
Market Forecast & Technical Support System
Research & Development Trends
Current R&D Hotspots
Current efforts in γ-Valerolactone (GVL) research prioritize process intensification and raw material flexibility. Most manufacturers focus on refining hydrogenation and ring-closing routes, particularly using levulinic acid produced from lignocellulosic biomass. Attention also centers on reducing catalyst deactivation and minimizing the impact of byproduct formation during hydrogenation. For developers, catalyst lifetime and selectivity directly affect batch output and economics. Quality control teams routinely study impurity carry-over, especially aldehyde and acid traces, as these influence downstream utility and storage stability.
Emerging Applications
Demand for GVL continues to shift as new routes for green solvents, fuel additives, and bio-derived intermediates develop. Technical teams monitor application-driven purity requirements, as some solvent and battery applications specify distinct tolerance for water or acid residuals. Innovators investigate GVL as a platform molecule for polyester and polyamide synthesis, which challenges manufacturers to provide material with low oligomer content and consistent water activity. Industrial production lines adjust process settings according to end-use, balancing throughput with grade-specific application sensitivity.
Technical Challenges & Breakthroughs
Manufacturing teams encounter recurring purification challenges, underlining the importance of selective distillation and advanced filtration for consistent GVL release. Research points to the necessity of scaling up continuous processes while retaining quality targets, especially when shifting from food-grade to technical-grade products. Some plants adopt modular reactor designs to better manage heat integration and recycle streams. Insights from laboratory-scale trials suggest that process adaptability and advanced analytics improve both batch-to-batch reliability and cost efficiency. Technical staff respond to market needs by designing control points for tighter monitoring of unknown impurity loads and catalyst residues, preventing equipment fouling and final product discoloration.
Future Outlook
Market Forecast (3-5 Years)
Global adoption of GVL aligns with policies supporting biochemical routes and renewable platforms. Production departments report increased queries from companies moving toward green manufacturing protocols. Volume forecast models and raw material procurement evaluate both feedstock risks and regional demand legitimacy; technical and export managers collaborate to pre-screen specification changes requested for regulated or high-growth sectors. While exact pricing and demand curves are set by regional conditions and supply chain volatility, internal planning expects a rise in custom formulation requests from both specialty chemicals and battery material segments over the next several years.
Technological Evolution
Plant technology adapts as new downstream applications set stricter quality expectations. Process engineers lead peer review to select reactor and purification systems with flexible capacity, which allows adjustment to evolving regulatory conditions or partner audits. Batch consistency management incorporates digital feedback from in-line quality assurance tools, which track deviations that may affect storage stability or blending reliability. Ongoing R&D investment seeks to address emerging regulatory assessments on impurities, especially for GVL entering electronic, pharmaceutical, or food contact supply chains.
Sustainability & Green Chemistry
Industry focus on green chemistry aligns both with customer requirements and internal cost controls. Procurement and regulatory compliance officers evaluate suppliers based on traceability and environmental risk, prioritizing biomass-derived feedstocks where commercially viable. Production teams track potential solvent loss, energy consumption, and waste disposal challenges, aiming for closed-loop or reduced-emission process models. Lean manufacturing principles shape raw material selection and continuous improvement programs inside the plant, so resources support both ecological compliance and long-term cost competitiveness.
Technical Support & After-Sales Service
Technical Consultation
Direct consultation channels connect customers with technical support engineers to resolve compatibility or process integration questions. Technical feedback typically covers recommended handling practices, best-fit reactor materials, and compatibility with downstream solvent recovery or formulation techniques. For customers transitioning between grades or with unique application demands, support teams arrange on-site or remote troubleshooting to interpret analytical results and tailor supply conditions.
Application Optimization Support
Production and R&D interface to support pilot trials and scale-up requests. Application chemists draft guidance on dosage, mixing order, and interaction with other formulation ingredients for sectors such as polyurethanes, fuels, or downstream esters. For buyers with tight impurity thresholds or regulatory compliance objectives, product specialists assist in sample validation and adapt logistics or packaging in coordination with warehouse and supply chain units.
After-Sales Commitment
Internal quality and technical service policies require monitoring of delivered batches for storage stability, transport risk, and offloading performance. Field support adjusts to specific customer facilities, with rapid response protocols for transit issues, arrival analytics, or formulation inconsistencies traced back to raw material variation. Feedback loops ensure continual improvement to packaging, labeling, and logistics, strengthening both traceability and user satisfaction. Release standards and batch documentation are maintained according to both internal benchmarks and explicit customer agreement.
γ-Valerolactone (99%): Industrial Supply and Reliability from a Direct Producer
Direct Manufacture of γ-Valerolactone
γ-Valerolactone production involves dedicated facilities and controlled synthesis routes. Our process relies on catalytic hydrogenation and precise purification, which produces a clear, high-purity material every batch. By overseeing each operational stage, from raw material preparation to final distillation, we guarantee both high assay and low by-product content. Our team carries out continuous in-process monitoring with integrated automation, which keeps product characteristics consistent and reduces variability to a minimum.
Main Industrial Uses for γ-Valerolactone
γ-Valerolactone functions across several industrial sectors because of its solvent properties, chemical stability, and renewability. In the flavors and fragrances industry, γ-Valerolactone acts as a key building block in the synthesis of aroma chemicals. Fine chemistry manufacturers depend on it as a reaction medium and as a precursor for lactone derivatives. In advanced materials and green chemistry, researchers turn to γ-Valerolactone as a platform molecule—serving both as a bio-based solvent and intermediate in polymers, resins, and specialty chemicals.
Maintaining Quality Every Batch
We maintain a focus on product consistency and measurable quality. Every lot of γ-Valerolactone undergoes gas chromatography to confirm purity standards. Moisture, acidity, and trace impurities are tested in-house before dispatch. Reference samples from each batch remain archived for post-shipment support and continuous improvement. In our experience, repeatable material performance enables scale-up and keeps production lines running without interruption.
Packaging, Inventory, and Delivery
We pack γ-Valerolactone based on the chemical’s handling profile and customer requirements. Options include tightly sealed steel drums, IBC tanks, and bulk ISO containers—all filled, inspected, and labeled at our own loading facility. Storage areas remain temperature regulated and dedicated to sensitive lactones. Our logistics team coordinates shipment schedules and transport documentation, adapting rapidly to changes in order volume or delivery site. We stock regularly used package sizes to minimize lead times for repeat industrial orders.
Technical Support for Industrial Users
Technical collaboration extends beyond product delivery. Our process engineers advise on storage compatibility, dosing pumps, and safe material transfer. Whenever customers run pilot tests or scale up their applications, we provide analytical support, troubleshooting, and long-term supply planning. We share process learnings from both routine and special production runs to help buyers avoid common hazards linked with lactone chemistry.
Value for Manufacturers, Distributors, and Procurement Teams
By controlling γ-Valerolactone production and logistics, we remove uncertainty for industrial partners. Manufacturers appreciate stable supply and validated specifications, which align batch-to-batch throughout multiyear contracts. Distributors gain confidence from our shipment traceability, allowing them to support their own clients with transparent documentation. Procurement teams benefit from predictable pricing and factory-direct problem-solving—a foundation for long-term planning and reduced operational risk.
Summary
Direct production brings control over γ-Valerolactone quality, supply flexibility, and technical expertise. Our ongoing commitment to process reliability delivers measurable value to industrial buyers who require a dependable source for this versatile lactone.
Industrial FAQ
What is the molecular weight and chemical formula of γ-Valerolactone (99%)?
What Our Process Tells Us About γ-Valerolactone
γ-Valerolactone (commonly known as GVL) enters our facility as a renewable-based chemical with growing relevance in both green chemistry and industrial synthesis. This compound’s popularity has come from its economic and sustainable production, as well as its pleasant handling and physicochemical properties. Its structure supports innovation in a variety of applications, from solvents to fuel additives and novel polymer intermediates. Understanding the basics—chemical formula and molecular weight—forms the foundation for any technical discussion regarding this material’s suitability and traceability in manufacturing workflows.
Chemical Formula
Based on our direct synthesis experience and analytical confirmation, γ-Valerolactone’s chemical formula is C5H8O2. Each molecule contains five carbon atoms, eight hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms, forming a stable five-membered lactone ring. Over years tightening up our QC protocols, we have confirmed this formula batch after batch using NMR and GC-MS to keep our product within strict tolerances for the international market.
Molecular Weight
The precise molecular weight of γ-Valerolactone is 100.12 g/mol, derived directly from its elemental composition. This number matters when calibrating dosing pumps and blending operations during production. Clients in pharmaceuticals, solvents, and energy solutions rely on this molecular weight for their stoichiometric calculations and process validation. For those setting up large-scale reactions, a slight discrepancy here would throw whole reagent balances off track, so accuracy at the production source is non-negotiable.
Why Purity and Data Integrity Matter
We supply γ-Valerolactone at ≥99% purity by GC, which ensures reliable input for downstream synthesis, especially when trace impurities can degrade catalysts or interfere with sensitive chemical transformations. Confirming both chemical formula and molecular weight at incoming QC helps keep our documentation transparent, a point our technical team revisits for every batch record. Clients integrating GVL into pharmaceuticals or fine chemicals rely on traceable figures—they expect and receive certified lab results, not generic vendor statements. Our approach addresses regulatory demands and lets clients build a strong technical case within their own companies.
Perspective as the Manufacturer
Trust in γ-Valerolactone starts with the manufacturer. We view data integrity not just as a compliance box but as an enabler for greener chemistry, process streamlining, and supply confidence. Global demand drives our investment in high-purity distillation and analytical instrumentation, with routine access to certificates of analysis generated on site. Laboratories, production managers, and purchasing departments can count on the actual number—C5H8O2 at 100.12 g/mol—for shipment after shipment. Our technical experts remain available to clarify any property, share chromatograms, or discuss application-specific inquiries about reactivity and formulation.
Our focus remains clear: providing consistently pure γ-Valerolactone with exact chemical credentials, supporting both research-scale and industrial-scale users who recognize the importance of reliable raw materials from a direct manufacturing partner.
What is the typical lead time and minimum order quantity for purchasing γ-Valerolactone (99%)?
Direct Insights from Our Production Floor
γ-Valerolactone (GVL) has drawn increasing industrial interest as both a green solvent and an intermediate for fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and sustainable fuels. Our manufacturing facilities have seen demand spikes, and it’s our competent technical and logistics team that ensures consistent and dependable supply to our clients worldwide.
Understanding Lead Times
On the production floor, output flows are planned based on forecasted demand, seasonal industries, raw material constraints, and plant scheduling. For γ-Valerolactone (99%), a standard lead time for new production runs averages between 3 to 4 weeks. This timeframe covers in-house synthesis, rigorous quality control, and packaging. If material is needed in larger custom volumes or with specific packing requirements, we recommend factoring in a further 7-10 days for scheduling optimization and additional inspections.
Our inventory levels cover buffer stock for smaller, frequent orders. For customers requiring typical packed goods, immediate dispatch from our warehouse is possible within 3 to 5 working days, subject to final documentation and logistics slotting. Bulk requirements, especially those exceeding standard monthly throughput, are placed into the next available production batch to ensure each drum or IBC leaves our gate with traceable documentation and full compliance.
Minimum Order Quantities – Striking the Balance
Production of GVL at high purity relies on sizable batch runs for operational efficiency and consistent analytical results. Our standard minimum order quantity is 200 kg, which aligns with typical drum packing. This MOQ covers the cost of bulk chemical synthesis, QA testing, UN-certified drums, and full-scale shipping logistics. Orders for lower quantities can be fulfilled from on-hand stock, but higher per-unit costs apply due to increased labor, smaller packings, and packaging material overhead.
For multi-ton orders, we consolidate material into IBCs, isotanks, or bulk containers as requested. These require scheduling into our monthly output plans and may extend quoted lead times slightly, especially if consecutive months have existing bookings from longstanding contracts. Our long-term clients often lock in calendar delivery slots during annual planning so their downstream operations avoid interruption during high-demand quarters.
Customizations, Documentation, and Cooperation
We provide full batch documentation, CoAs, and logistics support with each shipment. For specific requirements—whether tailored drum sizing, private labeling, or technical support on handling—our commercial and technical experts remain engaged throughout the order process. Regulatory documentation, such as REACH dossiers or GHS-compliant labeling, is prepared by our in-house compliance specialists before dispatch.
We recommend early dialogue for developmental or scale-up projects, as our scheduling team integrates these needs with regular order cycles. Our chemists and engineers can adjust synthesis parameters within well-controlled tolerances to meet consistent downstream performance, always validating purity, moisture content, and stability with every manufactured lot.
Building Reliable Partnerships
By maintaining open, direct lines with our customers, we help them manage supply chain risks, align purchasing strategies, and adapt to changes in global logistics and regulatory frameworks. GVL ordering from our facilities provides not just product, but also a committed production partner who understands the technical and commercial realities from inside the chemical plant. Our objective is to ensure every shipment meets rigorous quality requirements, scheduling promises, and the trust built through years of reliable manufacturing.
Does γ-Valerolactone (99%) require any special shipping conditions or regulatory documentation for international transport?
Shipping γ-valerolactone, especially at 99% purity, involves more than packing material into drums and loading them onto a container. Years of chemical manufacturing and global distribution have taught us that regulatory landscapes shift from country to country, and ignoring those details causes two primary risks: customs delays and legal penalties. Our technical and logistics staff track these rules closely to keep supply chains fluid and our customers productive, not waiting for paperwork or stuck in port.
Understanding Its Classification Under Transport Law
γ-Valerolactone (cas 108-29-2) falls into a gray area regarding hazardous classification. Some jurisdictions regard it as relatively low-hazard, so it does not officially fall under Dangerous Goods regulations for most routine shipments by sea (IMDG), air (IATA), or road (ADR). This means that standard drums or intermediate bulk containers with robust closures typically satisfy the basic requirements for packing and transit. Our packaging team relies on UN-certified drums for most export orders and routinely reviews container seals, drum linings, and spill protocols, following not only what is required but what decades of safe transport practice have proved to be wise.
Documentation and Regulatory Compliance for Exports
No matter the hazard class, customs authorities and regulatory agencies inspect chemical shipments. γ-Valerolactone does not appear on common dual-use or strategic control lists and typically does not require a special export license in main producing economies. Our logistics documentation includes a compliant safety data sheet (SDS) in multiple languages, plus a certificate of analysis issued for each lot. These documents detail chemical identity, batch information, and safety guidelines as demanded by various authorities. Routine export documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and, where required by local law, a transport emergency card. We automatically update these with every revision to classification status, which can change as new legislation emerges.
Best Practices to Avoid Delays or Compliance Issues
Some regions, including the European Union and parts of Asia, have begun to request voluntary registration for substances—even if not deemed hazardous—under REACH-like frameworks. Our legal team files preregistrations and submits product dossiers in high-volume destinations as a preventive measure, reducing the chance of port seizures or discarded stock. Customers regularly ask about the applicability of additional licensure or pre-arrival notification. Our experience confirms that providing harmonized system codes and open SDS access speeds up border clearance, especially where customs authorities show little familiarity with specialty solvents.
Temperature and Container Considerations
γ-Valerolactone stands out for its thermal stability. Shipments do not warrant special temperature control unless the destination climate exceeds reasonable handling limits for flammable liquids—rare given typical shipping conditions. Our drums are equipped with tamper-evident seals, and every container undergoes leak testing before dispatch. Periodic in-house audits have shown that, in the absence of leaks, the chemical reaches its destination without loss of purity or container compromise over typical maritime or road transits.
Summary of Practical Experience
International transport of γ-valerolactone is generally straightforward if shipments align with established regulatory practices and robust documentation standards. Our team has learned to anticipate and address emerging regulatory requirements proactively, drawing on current official sources and real-world port experience. Questions about shipping conditions or documentation reflect the complexities of a global supply chain—where small errors trigger costly delays. We have built our process on years of lessons, prioritizing accuracy and readiness in both physical packaging and regulatory paperwork.
Technical Support & Inquiry
For product inquiries, sample requests, quotations or after-sales support, please feel free to contact me directly via sales3@liwei-chem.com, +8615365186327 or WhatsApp: +8615365186327