Xylene
Xylene is a clear, colorless, flammable aromatic hydrocarbon solvent consisting of three isomers: ortho-, meta-, and para-xylene. It is widely utilized in various industries for its excellent solvency, chemical stability, and moderate evaporation rate. Xylene serves as a key raw material in chemical manufacturing and an effective solvent in coatings, adhesives, inks, and cleaning applications.
Xylene
Primary Uses
Chemical Industry
- Solvent for Paints, Varnishes, and Coatings: Dissolves resins, polymers, and additives, improving application and drying properties.
- Feedstock in Polyester Production: Used to manufacture terephthalic acid and dimethyl terephthalate, essential intermediates in polyester fiber and plastic production.
Laboratory & Industrial Cleaning
- Cleaning Agent: Removes grease, oil, and residues from laboratory glassware, metal parts, and equipment surfaces.
Printing Industry
- Ink Solvent: Provides appropriate viscosity and drying times in printing inks for various substrates.
Secondary Uses
Pharmaceutical Industry
- Chemical Intermediate: Involved in synthesis pathways of certain pharmaceutical compounds.
Rubber Industry
- Processing Aid: Incorporated in rubber cement formulations and used for cleaning rubber processing machinery.
Construction Industry
- Thinner & Degreaser: Used to thin adhesives and coatings and clean tools and surfaces.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Dimethylbenzene
- Common/Trade Name: Xylene
- CAS Number: 1330-20-7
- HS Code: 2902.30.00
- Synonyms: Dimethylbenzene, Xylol
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Liquid
- Color & Odor: Clear, colorless; sweet aromatic odor
- Boiling Point: 138–144 °C (depending on isomer)
- Flash Point: ~27 °C (closed cup)
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in alcohol, ether, and other organic solvents
- Density: Approx. 0.87 g/cm³
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Flammable liquid (Category 3), harmful if inhaled, skin irritant
- Toxicity: Moderate toxicity; prolonged exposure can cause central nervous system effects such as dizziness, headache, and nausea
- Exposure Limits: OSHA PEL: 100 ppm (8-hour TWA), ACGIH TLV: 100 ppm
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, open flames, and incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers
- Container Type: Steel drums or tightly sealed containers suitable for flammable liquids
- Shelf Life: Stable for several years if stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Use in well-ventilated areas, avoid inhalation and skin contact, wear protective gloves, goggles, and respiratory protection as needed
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with:
- OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulations for workplace safety
- REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) in the European Union
- TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act) inventory requirements in the U.S.
- GHS (Globally Harmonized System) classification for chemical hazards
- Transport Regulations: Classified as a flammable liquid under ADR, IMDG, and DOT regulations (UN No. 1307)
- Manufactured under: Standard industrial chemical manufacturing practices; GMP applicable when used in pharmaceutical or food-grade synthesis contexts
- Environmental Compliance: Meets environmental laws for emissions, discharge, and disposal including EPA standards
- Safety Data Sheet (SDS): Provided in compliance with applicable regulations
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions
- Ecotoxicity: Toxic to aquatic organisms; avoid release to waterways
- Bioaccumulation: Potential for bioaccumulation in aquatic organisms
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Protective gloves, safety goggles, and respirators recommended in confined or poorly ventilated spaces
- Handling Guidelines: Minimize vapour inhalation; avoid static discharge and ignition sources
- Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and away from incompatible materials
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move victim to fresh air immediately; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water; remove contaminated clothing
- Eye Contact: Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical advice if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek immediate medical attention
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Highly flammable liquid and vapor; vapors may form explosive mixtures with air
- Extinguishing Media: Use foam, dry chemical powder, or carbon dioxide extinguishers
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and other toxic fumes

Preservatives(food)
Flavor Enhancers
Acidulants
Sweeteners
Antioxidants
Colorants(food)
Nutraceutical Ingredients (food)
Nutrient Supplements
Emulsifiers
Collectors
Dust Suppressants
Explosives and Blasting Agents
Flocculants and Coagulants
Frothers
Leaching Agents
pH Modifiers
Precious Metal Extraction Agents
Antioxidants(plastic)
Colorants (Pigments, Dyes)
Fillers and Reinforcements
Flame Retardants
Monomers
Plasticizers
Polymerization Initiators
Stabilizers (UV, Heat)
Antifoaming Agents
Chelating Agents
Coagulants and Flocculants
Corrosion Inhibitors
Disinfectants and Biocides
Oxidizing Agents
pH Adjusters
Scale Inhibitors( water)
Antioxidants(cosmetic)
Emollients
Fragrances and Essential Oils
Humectants
Preservatives
Surfactants(cosmetic)
Thickeners
UV Filters
Fertilizers
Soil Conditioners
Plant Growth Regulators
Animal Feed Additives
Biostimulants
Pesticides (Herbicides, Insecticides, Fungicides)
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs)
Excipients
Solvents(pharmaceutical)
Antibiotics
Antiseptics and Disinfectants
Vaccine Adjuvants
Nutraceutical Ingredients (pharmaceutical)
Analgesics & Antipyretics
Analytical Reagents
Solvents(lab)
Chromatography Chemicals
Spectroscopy Reagents
microbiology-and-cell-culture-reagents
Molecular Biology Reagents
Biochemical Reagents
Inorganic and Organic Standards
Laboratory Safety Chemicals
Specialty Laboratory Chemicals(Special Laboratory Equipment)
Demulsifiers
Hydraulic Fracturing Fluids
Scale Inhibitors(oil)
Surfactants(oil)
Drilling Fluids
Dyes and Pigments
Bleaching Agents
Softening Agents
Finishing Agents
Antistatic Agents
Admixtures
Waterproofing Agents
Sealants and Adhesives
Curing Compounds
Concrete Repair Chemicals
Anti-Corrosion Coatings
Surfactants(cleaning)
Builders
Enzymes
Solvents (Cleaning)
Fragrances
Electronic Chemicals
Catalysts
Lubricants
Photographic Chemicals
Refrigerants
Automotive chemicals
Pyrotechnic Chemicals
Biodegradable Surfactants
Bio-based Solvents
Renewable Polymers
Carbon Capture Chemicals
Wastewater Treatment Chemicals
Pigments
Solvents(paint)
Specialty Coatings
Binders/Resins
Additives
Driers
Anti-Corrosion Agents
Functional Coatings
Application-Specific Coatings
Fresh Herbs
Ground Spices
Whole Spices
Spice Blends
Dried Herbs
Leavening Agents
Dough Conditioners
Flour Treatments
Fat Replacers
Decoratives
Preservatives(baking)
Plasticizers & Softeners
Reinforcing Agents
Adhesion Promoters
Vulcanizing Agents
Antidegradants
Blowing Agents
Fillers & Extenders
Accelerators & Retarders