Toluene Extra Pure
Toluene Extra Pure is a volatile, aromatic hydrocarbon widely used in analytical, organic, and industrial laboratory settings. As a high-purity, non-polar solvent, it is essential for reactions involving aromatic compounds, sample preparation, extraction, and cleaning. Toluene’s volatility and solvency make it indispensable in high-precision environments, though its flammability and health hazards require careful handling and strict safety compliance. Its Extra Pure grade ensures minimal impurities for research and sensitive formulation work.
Toluene Extra Pure
PRIMARY USES
Analytical Reagent & Laboratory Applications
- Used as a non-polar solvent in organic synthesis, sample preparation, and extraction
- Common in gas chromatography (GC) and HPLC sample preparation
- Serves as a reference standard in spectroscopic analysis
- Utilized in cleaning and degreasing laboratory glassware and instruments
Chemical Synthesis
- Acts as a reaction medium for aromatic substitution reactions
- Widely used in nitration, halogenation, and sulfonation processes
- Important in the preparation of benzene derivatives and fine chemicals
SECONDARY USES
Paints, Coatings, and Adhesives (lab scale)
- Functions as a solvent and thinner in laboratory formulations of paints, lacquers, and coatings
- Used in resin solubilization and ink development for analytical purposes
Pharmaceutical Research and Development
- Employed as a solvent in intermediate synthesis
- Occasionally used for extraction of specific organic compounds in drug development
Fragrance and Aroma Chemistry
- Acts as a carrier solvent in fragrance and essential oil research
- Helps in volatility testing and formulation of aroma profiles
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name: Toluene
- CAS Number: 108-88-3
- HS Code: 2902.30.00
- Molecular Formula: C₇H₈
- Synonyms: Methylbenzene, Toluol, Phenylmethane
- Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Liquid
- Color & Odor: Clear, colorless with sweet, aromatic odor
- Boiling Point: 110.6 °C
- Melting Point: −95 °C
- Density/Specific Gravity: ~0.8669 g/cm³ at 20 °C
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; miscible with alcohol, ether, benzene, and most organic solvents
- Vapor Pressure: ~22 mmHg at 20 °C
- Flash Point: ~4.4 °C (closed cup)
- Autoignition Temperature: 480 °C
- Viscosity: Low
- Refractive Index: 1.496 at 20 °C
- Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS Classification):
– Flammable liquid (Category 2)
– Skin and eye irritant
– Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child (Category 2)
– Causes organ damage with prolonged exposure (Category 2) - NFPA Ratings:
– Health: 2
– Flammability: 3
– Reactivity: 0 - Exposure Limits:
– OSHA PEL: 200 ppm
– ACGIH TLV: 20 ppm - Reactivity:
– Stable under normal conditions
– Reacts with strong oxidizing agents
- Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions:
– Store in a tightly closed container in a cool, well-ventilated area
– Keep away from heat, sparks, and open flames - Incompatible Materials:
– Strong oxidizers, nitric acid, sulfuric acid - Container Type:
– Use approved flammable liquid containers (metal or HDPE) - Shelf Life & Expiration Date:
– Stable for 2–3 years under proper storage - Special Handling Requirements:
– Use under a fume hood
– Ground all equipment during transfer to prevent static discharge
- Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Regulatory Status:
– Listed under OSHA, REACH, EPA, and TSCA
– Controlled as a hazardous air pollutant - Transportation Restrictions:
– UN Number: UN1294
– Shipping Name: Toluene
– Hazard Class: 3 (Flammable Liquid)
– Packing Group: II - Waste Disposal Method:
– Dispose as hazardous waste in accordance with local regulations
- Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity:
– Harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects - Persistence in Environment:
– Volatile and moderately persistent in air and soil - Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity:
– Not classified as carcinogenic by IARC (Group 3) - Biodegradability:
– Biodegradable under aerobic conditions
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Wear chemical-resistant gloves (e.g., nitrile)
- Use splash-proof safety goggles
- Wear a lab coat or flame-resistant clothing
- Use a respirator with organic vapor cartridges if ventilation is inadequate
Handling:
- Handle in a chemical fume hood
- Avoid skin and eye contact
- Do not inhale vapors
- Wash hands thoroughly after use
Storage:
- Store in a flammable liquids cabinet
- Keep container tightly sealed
- Protect from ignition sources and static discharge
FIRST AID MEASURES
Inhalation:
- Move to fresh air immediately
- Seek medical attention if symptoms such as dizziness or drowsiness occur
Skin Contact:
- Wash thoroughly with soap and water
- Remove contaminated clothing
- Get medical help if irritation develops
Eye Contact:
- Rinse with water for at least 15 minutes
- Seek medical attention promptly
Ingestion:
- Rinse mouth
- Do not induce vomiting
- Seek immediate medical assistance
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
Flammability:
- Highly flammable liquid and vapor
Extinguishing Media:
- Use dry chemical, foam, CO₂
- Do not use water jet directly on liquid
Hazardous Combustion Products:
- Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, irritating fumes
Firefighter Protection:
- Wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)