Toluene is a clear, colorless aromatic solvent with a distinct sweet odor, widely used in chemical industries, paints, coatings, resins, and pharmaceuticals. Due to its moderate volatility and high solubility, it serves as an essential medium in the extraction and synthesis of many chemical compounds.

Features:

• Volatile and colorless
• Soluble in most organic solvents
• Flammable, with a boiling point of approximately 110.6°C

Applications

• Solvent in paints, coatings, adhesives, and resins
• Precursor in the synthesis of benzene derivatives and toluene diisocyanate
• Extraction of natural compounds in pharmaceutical industries
• Experimental fuel in some industrial applications

Technical Specifications

• Chemical Formula: C₆H₅CH₃
• Molecular Weight: 92.14 g/mol
• Density: 0.867 g/cm³ (20°C)
• Boiling Point: 110.6°C
• Melting Point: −95°C
• Water Solubility: 0.5 g/L (20°C)
• Color: Colorless
• Odor: Distinct sweet aroma

Hazards and Safety

• Flammability: Keep away from heat sources and open flames.
• Skin and Eye Contact: May cause irritation; use gloves and safety goggles.
• Inhalation: High concentrations can affect the central nervous system.
• Environmental: Not biodegradable in water and soil; avoid environmental release.

Packaging and Storage

• Packaging: 200-liter steel drums, IBC, and safety containers
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from oxidizing agents

Industrial Applications

• Paints and resins industry
• Adhesives and coatings production
• Pharmaceutical industry for organic syntheses
• Extraction of natural compounds and essential oils

In the 1930s, toluene was the primary solvent in paint and lacquer production across Europe, playing a significant role in the expansion of chemical industries after World War I.

A 2023 study demonstrated that using toluene as a green solvent in metal nanoparticle synthesis significantly improves reaction efficiency and nanoparticle quality. Source