


Xylene, systematic chemical name dimethylbenzene, CAS No.: 1330-20-7, molecular formula C₈H₁₀. It usually refers to a mixture of three isomers: ortho-xylene, meta-xylene and para-xylene (commonly available commercially), and the industrial product is often called mixed xylenes.
1. Acid-base Stability: It is neutral and chemically stable under normal storage conditions, and will not decompose or polymerize spontaneously.
2. Core Chemical Reactivity (two reaction sites)
Benzene ring (aromatic nucleus): Electrophilic substitution reactions such as nitration and sulfonation can take place.
Side chains (methyl groups): Prone to oxidation under light or heating, and halogenation reactions may also occur.
3. Combustion and Oxidation (most important): Flammable. Combustion products are carbon dioxide and water. Mixture of vapor and air may explode upon exposure to open flame.
4. Isomerization Property: The ortho, meta and para isomers can be converted into each other under the action of specific catalysts (used in industry to increase para-xylene output).
Incompatible Substances: Contact with strong oxidants (such as potassium permanganate, concentrated nitric acid and peroxides) is strictly prohibited. Mixing may lead to violent reactions, even fire and explosion.
Used directly as a solvent
Coatings and paint industry: Serves as a solvent or thinner for nitrocellulose spray paints, varnishes and resins. It is also applied in automotive coating and tool cleaning.
Pesticides and pharmaceuticals: Used as a solvent for pesticide emulsifiable concentrates, as well as a solvent or extractant in the production of pharmaceuticals and synthetic detergents.
Inks and adhesives: Acts as an ideal solvent for printing inks and is also used to manufacture various adhesives.
Cleaning and extraction: Used as a cleaning agent and degreaser for precision optical instruments, silicon components and the electronics industry. It is adopted in laboratories to determine moisture content in organic compounds.
Used as chemical raw material (Core Application)
Mixed xylenes are important basic chemical raw materials. Their core value lies in the synthesis after separating each isomer:
Para-xylene (PX): Oxidation of PX produces terephthalic acid, the key raw material for polyester fiber and PET plastic bottles.
Ortho-xylene (OX): Oxidation to produce phthalic anhydride for manufacturing plasticizers, coatings and others.
Meta-xylene (MX): Used to produce isophthalic acid for unsaturated polyester resins.
Ethylbenzene (EB): Can be dehydrogenated to obtain styrene, which is the raw material for polystyrene (PS) and ABS plastics.
Other Important Applications
High-octane gasoline component: Used as an additive for aviation gasoline and motor gasoline to increase octane number.
Other fields: Used in the production of dyes, explosives and artificial musk, and as a solvent in the rubber industry.
1.Environment and Temperature: Store in a dedicated cool and well-ventilated warehouse, with temperature preferably not exceeding 26–30℃. Keep away from ignition sources and heat sources, and avoid direct sunlight. 2.Containers and Facilities: Containers must be tightly sealed. Explosion-proof lighting and ventilation systems shall be adopted in the warehouse, with switches installed outdoors. Fire fighting and leakage emergency response equipment shall be equipped. 3.Segregated Storage: Mixed storage with oxidants, reducing agents and alkalis is strictly prohibited. The warehouse shall be free of drainpipes or sewers to prevent leakage from entering the drainage system.
1.Qualification and Packaging: Special vehicles with fire-fighting and emergency equipment are required. Commonly packed in 200L iron drums (net weight 160kg), and the interior must be clean and dry. 2.Loading, Unloading and Transit: Handle with care during loading and unloading to prevent impact. Tank trucks shall be fitted with grounding chains for static elimination, and flame arrestors must be installed on exhaust pipes. Transport along designated routes and avoid densely populated areas. 3.Incompatible Materials and Timing: Mixed loading and transportation with oxidants, food and edible products are strictly prohibited. Transportation shall be carried out in the morning and evening in summer, protecting goods from sun exposure and rain on the way.
Get a customized quote for your specific requirements. Our technical team will respond within 24 hours with pricing, availability, and formulation options.