p-Xylene is a colorless and flammable liquid used as a solvent in the manufacture of plastics and synthetic fibers. It is also used in the production of dyes and resins.
| IUPAC Name | 1,4-dimethylbenzene |
| Molecular Formula | C8H10 |
| CAS Number | 106-42-3 |
| Synonyms | p-Dimethylbenzene, 4-xylene, para-xylene, 1,4-xylene, p-xylol |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C8H10/c1-7-3-5-8(6-4-7)2/h3-6H,1-2H3 |
p-Xylene Properties
p-Xylene Molar Mass
p-Xylene has a molar mass of 106.17 g/mol. Molar mass is the mass of one mole of a substance and is calculated by adding the atomic masses of all the atoms in the molecule. In the case of p-Xylene, there are eight carbon atoms and ten hydrogen atoms, each with their respective atomic masses. The molar mass is an important property of p-Xylene, as it is used to calculate other physical properties such as density and boiling point.
p-Xylene Boiling Point
The boiling point of para-xylene is 138.35°C. Boiling point is the temperature at which a liquid change to a gas at a given pressure. para-xylene has a relatively low boiling point compared to other aromatic hydrocarbons, which makes it a useful solvent in many industrial applications. The boiling point of para-xylene is also influenced by its molar mass, molecular structure, and intermolecular forces.
p-Xylene Melting Point
The melting point of para-xylene is -47.8°C. Melting point is the temperature at which a solid changes to a liquid. para-xylene has a low melting point, which makes it a liquid at room temperature. The melting point of para-xylene is also influenced by its molecular structure and intermolecular forces.
p-Xylene Density g/mL
The density of para-xylene is 0.86 g/mL. Density is the mass of a substance per unit volume. The density of para-xylene is relatively low, which means that it is less dense than water. This property makes it useful as a solvent in industrial applications, as it can float on top of water and be easily separated.
p-Xylene Molecular Weight
The molecular weight of para-xylene is 106.17 g/mol. Molecular weight is the sum of the atomic weights of all the atoms in a molecule. para-xylene has a relatively low molecular weight compared to other aromatic hydrocarbons, which makes it useful in many industrial applications.
p-Xylene Structure
Para-xylene is an aromatic hydrocarbon with a molecular formula of C8H10. It has a linear, symmetrical structure with a central benzene ring and two methyl groups attached at opposite ends of the ring. This structure gives para-xylene its unique physical and chemical properties, including its low boiling point, low melting point, and solubility in organic solvents.
p-Xylene Formula
The chemical formula of para-xylene is C8H10. This formula represents the number and types of atoms present in a molecule of para-xylene. The formula is useful in determining the molar mass, molecular weight, and other properties of the compound. It is also used in chemical reactions involving para-xylene, as it provides information on the reactants and products involved.
| Appearance | Colorless liquid |
| Specific Gravity | 0.86 |
| Color | Colorless |
| Odor | Sweet, aromatic |
| Molar Mass | 106.17 g/mol |
| Density | 0.86 g/mL |
| Melting Point | -47.8°C |
| Boiling Point | 138.35°C |
| Flash Point | 25.6°C |
| Water Solubility | 0.2 g/L |
| Solubility | Soluble in organic solvents |
| Vapour Pressure | 6.93 mmHg at 25°C |
| Vapour Density | 3.65 (air = 1) |
| pKa | 38.29 |
| pH | Not applicable |
p-Xylene Safety and Hazards
para-xylene poses several safety and health hazards. It is a flammable liquid and can ignite easily, so it should be kept away from sources of heat and open flames. Inhaling para-xylene vapors can cause dizziness, headache, and nausea. Long-term exposure to para-xylene can lead to liver and kidney damage. It can also cause skin and eye irritation upon contact. Proper safety equipment, such as gloves and eye protection, should be worn when handling para-xylene. In case of ingestion or skin contact, immediate medical attention is necessary. Proper storage and handling procedures must be followed to minimize the risk of accidents and exposure.
| Hazard Symbols | Flammable, Harmful if inhaled, Irritant |
| Safety Description | Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces. Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. IF INHALED: Remove to fresh air and keep at rest in a position comfortable for breathing. Call a POISON CENTER or doctor/physician if you feel unwell. IF ON SKIN (or hair): Remove/Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower. IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. |
| UN IDs | UN 3077 (Environmentally hazardous substances, solid, n.o.s.), UN 1993 (Flammable liquids, n.o.s.) |
| HS Code | 2902.43.00 |
| Hazard Class | 3 |
| Packing Group | III |
| Toxicity | Harmful if swallowed or inhaled. Causes skin and eye irritation. Long-term exposure can cause organ damage. |
p-Xylene Synthesis Methods
Catalytic reforming, toluene disproportionate, and selective toluene hydrogenation synthesize para-xylene.
Catalytic reforming involves the use of a catalyst, usually platinum or palladium, to convert naphtha or other petroleum fractions into aromatics, including para-xylene. Toluene disproportionation involves the reaction of toluene with itself under the influence of a catalyst, such as zeolites or aluminosilicates, to produce a mixture of xylene isomers, including para-xylene.
Selective toluene hydrogenation involves the hydrogenation of toluene in the presence of a catalyst, such as nickel or platinum, to selectively produce para-xylene. Another method involves the reaction of toluene with methanol in the presence of a catalyst, such as aluminum chloride, to produce a mixture of xylene isomers, including para-xylene.
A newer method involves the use of bio-based feedstocks, such as glucose, as starting materials. Industrial and consumer applications, including paints, adhesives, and cleaning agents, utilize solvents such as xylene and toluene which production uses para-xylene.
p-Xylene Uses
p-Xylene is a versatile chemical with a wide range of applications across various industries. Some of its common uses include:
- Production of plastics: Key raw material in the production of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) plastics.
- Production of solvents: Producing solvents such as xylene and toluene from it serves a variety of industrial and consumer applications, including paints, adhesives, and cleaning agents.
- Production of fragrances and flavors: It is a common ingredient in the production of fragrances and flavors, particularly those with floral and fruity notes.
- Research and laboratory use: Used as a solvent and reagent in various research and laboratory applications, such as in chromatography and as a substrate for enzyme assays.
- Fuel blending: Blending it with gasoline can improve its octane rating, resulting in improved engine performance and reduced emissions.
- Medical applications: Used in the production of various medical devices, such as catheters and tubing, as well as in the production of certain pharmaceuticals.
Questions:
Q: Which type of isomers are o-xylene, m-xylene, and p-xylene?
A: o-Xylene, m-xylene, and p-xylene are positional isomers, meaning they have the same molecular formula but differ in the position of their functional groups on the aromatic ring.
Q: Where to buy xylene near me?
A: The availability of xylene may vary depending on your location and local regulations. Xylene can typically be purchased from chemical suppliers or hardware stores. It is important to follow proper handling and safety procedures when using xylene.
Q: What is xylene used for?
A: Xylene is a versatile chemical with a wide range of applications. It is commonly used as a solvent in various industrial and consumer applications, such as in paints, adhesives, and cleaning agents. It is also used in the production of plastics, fragrances, and medical devices.
Q: What kind of pesticides is xylene in?
A: Xylene is not typically used as a pesticide on its own, but it may be present as a component in certain pesticide formulations. It is important to read and follow all label instructions and safety precautions when using pesticides.
Q: Will xylene remove the concrete sealer?
A: Xylene can be used as a solvent to remove certain types of concrete sealers, but its effectiveness may vary depending on the type and age of the sealer. It is important to follow proper safety procedures and test the solvent on a small, inconspicuous area before using it on a larger surface.