Xylene is a colorless aromatic solvent with a distinct sweet odor, available in three isomers: para, ortho, and meta. Due to its moderate volatility and high solubility, xylene is widely used in chemical industries, paints, resins, and plastic manufacturing.

Features

• Colorless and volatile
• Soluble in most organic solvents
• Flammable with a boiling point of 138–144°C depending on the isomer

Applications

• Solvent in paints, resins, adhesives, and printing inks
• Raw material for polyester, PET, and terephthalic acid production
• Extraction of natural and pharmaceutical compounds
• Industrial cleaning and degreasing

Technical Specifications

• Chemical Formula: C₆H₄(CH₃)₂
• Molecular Weight: 106.16 g/mol
• Density: 0.864–0.878 g/cm³ (20°C)
• Boiling Point: 138–144°C (depending on isomer)
• Melting Point: −47°C to −25°C (isomers)
• Water Solubility: Practically insoluble
• Color: Colorless
• Odor: Sweet and distinct

Hazards and Safety

• Flammability: Keep away from heat, flames, and sparks.
• Skin and Eye Contact: May cause irritation; gloves and safety goggles recommended.
• Inhalation: High concentrations can affect the central nervous system.
• Environmental: Avoid release into water and soil due to low biodegradability.

Packaging and Storage

• Packaging: 200-liter steel drums, IBC, safety containers
• Storage: Cool, dry, ventilated area, away from oxidizing agents

Industrial Applications

• Paints, resins, and adhesives
• Polyester and PET production
• Industrial cleaning and degreasing
• Pharmaceutical and natural compound extraction

In the 1950s, para-xylene was used as a primary raw material in polyester and PET production, forming the foundation of modern plastic industries.

A 2022 study demonstrated that using xylene as a solvent in nanocomposite synthesis improves particle dispersion and reaction efficiency. Source