Xylene:
Xylene is an aromatic hydrocarbon widely used in the chemical industry.
Composition:
Xylene is a mixture of dimethylbenzene isomers, mainly comprising ortho-xylene, meta-xylene, and para-xylene.
Characteristics:
- Xylene is a colorless, flammable, and volatile liquid.
- It has a characteristic odor.
- It is insoluble in water but soluble in many organic solvents.
Uses:
- Solvent: Xylene is commonly used as a solvent in applications such as paint, ink, adhesive, and cleaning.
- Chemical Industry: It is used as a raw material in the production of various chemicals, including plastics.
- Laboratories: Due to its solvent properties, it is used in certain laboratory processes.
Precautions:
- Xylene is flammable, and appropriate precautions should be taken to avoid fire or explosion hazards.
- Prolonged inhalation can be toxic. Handling in well-ventilated areas is essential.
- Prolonged skin contact should be avoided, as xylene can cause irritation.