Xylene
Xylene is a clear, colorless, sweet-smelling solution of three aromatic hydrocarbon isomers.
It is a good cleaning agent for silicon wafers and steel. It is also used to sterilize many substances. Xylene is used as a feedstock in the production of petrol. It is also found in small proportions in gasoline and jet fuel.
Other application includes used as a thinner and solvent in paints, varnishes, adhesives and inks. A xylene mixture can be used to thin lacquers (a black resinous substance used a natural varnish) when slower drying is desired. Xylene is often used as a solvent in pesticides products.
CAS Number: 1330-20-7
Chemical Name: Xylene (a mixture of isomers: ortho-, meta-, and para-xylene)
Other Names: Glacial Acetic Acid, Ethanoic Acid
Chemical Formula: C₈H₁₀
Molecular Weight: 106.17 g/mol
Structure: Dimethylbenzene — a benzene ring with two methyl groups in different positions (o-, m-, or p-)
Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
Odor: Sweet, aromatic
Solubility: Miscible with alcohols, ethers, hydrocarbons, etc
Solubility in Water: Insoluble (<0.02 g/100 mL)
Boiling Point: 137–144 °C (isomer range)
Melting Point: -47.4 °C (mixed isomers)
Density (20 °C): ~0.86–0.88 g/cm³
Flash Point: ~25–30 °C (closed cup)
Vapor Pressure: ~6–8 mmHg at 20 °C
Evaporation Rate: Moderate to fast
Application in areas:
- Solvent (Widely used in)
- Paints, varnishes, and coatings
- Printing inks
- Adhesives and rubber
- Pesticide formulations
- Cleaning agents and degreasers
- Chemical Intermediate
- Used in the manufacture of:
- Phthalic anhydride
- Terephthalic acid (for PET plastics)
- Isophthalic acid
- Xylene derivatives (o-xylene, m-xylene, p-xylene)
- Laboratory & Industrial Cleaning
- Commonly used as a degreaser or sample preparation solvent
Safety & Handling:
- Hazard:
- Flammable: Vapors form explosive mixtures with air
- Health risks: Can cause skin and eye irritation, dizziness, drowsiness, and CNS depression
- Long-term exposure: May damage liver, kidneys, or blood
- Inhalation hazard: Especially in poorly ventilated areas
Regulatory Information:
- OSHA and WHMIS: Listed as a hazardous chemical
- VOC regulations apply in many regions due to air emissions impact
- Transport classification : UN 1307 (Flammable, Liquid)
PPE Requirements:
- Use chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and respiratory protection if ventilation is inadequate
Storage Guidelines:
- Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area
- Keep away from heat, sparks, flames, and oxidizing agents
Packaging: Drum, TIN