Xylenes (individual or mixed isomers): Overview
Description
Xylene is used as a solvent, to manufacture petrol, as a raw material to manufacture chemicals used to make polyester fibre, and to make dyes, paints, lacquers, and insecticides. It is used to sterilize some materials.
Substance details
Substance name: Xylenes (individual or mixed isomers)
CASR number: 1330-20-7
Molecular formula: C8H10
Synonyms: Dimethylbenzene, Xylol, Dimethylbenzene (mixed isomers), Xylenes (o-, m-, p-isomers) m-xylene (CASR# 108-38-3), o-xylene (CASR# 95-47-6), p-xylene (CASR# 106-42-3)
Physical properties
Xylene is a colourless liquid, with a strong, sweet odour.
Melting Point:
- m-xylene -47.4°C
- o-xylene -25.2°C
- p-xylene 13-14°C
- mixed -48°C
Boiling Point:
- m-xylene 139.3°C
- o-xylene 144.4°C
- p-xylene 137°C
- mixed 137°C
Specific Gravity:
- m-xylene 0.87
- o-xylene 0.88
- p-xylene 0.86
- mixed 0.87
Chemical properties
There are three xylenes: m-xylene (CASR# 108-38-3), o-xylene (CASR# 95-47-6), p-xylene (CASR# 106-42-3), since their molecular formula is the same they are called isomers. Their chemical structures are slightly different. Since they are often sold and used as 'mixed isomers', unless a particular isomer is specifically mentioned the information given will be discussing a mixture of the three isomers. Xylenes are flammable liquids and fire hazards. Xylenes are moderately soluble in water.
Further information
The National Pollutant Inventory (NPI) holds data for all sources of Xylenes (individual or mixed isomers) in Australia.
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