Hexane is an aliphatic hydrocarbon belonging to the alkane family.
Characteristics:
Hexane is a colorless and volatile liquid at room temperature.
Uses:
Vegetable Oil Extraction: Hexane is commonly used to extract vegetable oils from seeds and plants, such as soybeans and corn.
Chemical Industry: It is employed as a solvent in the production of various chemicals, including adhesives, coatings, and cleaning products.
Petroleum Industry: Hexane is used in petroleum refining to separate aromatic compounds and isomers from petroleum fractions.
Precautions:
Hexane is a flammable liquid and should be handled with care to avoid the risk of fire or explosion.
Inhaling significant amounts of hexane can have harmful effects on health. Adequate ventilation must be ensured when using it in enclosed environments.