1. Quick Answer
No, cyclohexanone is not a methyl ketone.
Cyclohexanone is an alicyclic (cyclic) ketone - its carbonyl group sits within a six-membered carbon ring, not attached to a terminal methyl group as in acetone or methyl ethyl ketone (MEK). This structural difference is why cyclohexanone behaves differently from methyl ketones in both chemical reactivity and industrial application.
2. What Is Cyclohexanone?
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 108-94-1 |
| Chemical Formula | C6H10O |
| Molecular Weight | 98.14 g/mol |
| Chemical Class | Cyclic ketone / alicyclic ketone |
| Physical Form | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
Cyclohexanone (CAS 108-94-1) is produced industrially, primarily via oxidation of cyclohexane or hydrogenation of phenol. It is one of the most widely traded ketone solvents and chemical intermediates in the global chemical supply chain, forming the backbone of the nylon production chain.
3. Cyclohexanone vs. Methyl Ketone: Structural Comparison
| Item | Cyclohexanone | Methyl Ketone |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Cyclic (ring-based) ketone | Linear (chain-based) ketone |
| Carbonyl Position | Within a closed six-carbon ring | Attached to a terminal −CH3 group |
| Examples | Cyclohexanone | Acetone, Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) |
| Classification | Alicyclic ketone | Aliphatic methyl ketone |
| Industrial Role | Solvent and chemical intermediate (nylon precursor) | General-purpose fast-evaporating solvent |
| Iodoform Test | Negative | Positive (for most methyl ketones) |
The distinction matters for chemists and formulators: methyl ketones (R–CO–CH3) give a positive iodoform test and tend to be smaller, faster-evaporating solvents. Cyclohexanone's ring structure gives it a higher boiling point, different evaporation rate, and distinct solvency profile - properties that make it valuable for specific industrial processes rather than as a general-purpose solvent.
4. Industrial Uses of Cyclohexanone
Cyclohexanone plays a central role across several manufacturing sectors:
- Nylon 6,6 and Nylon 6 production - a key raw material for adipic acid and caprolactam synthesis
- Coatings and resin solvent - dissolves nitrocellulose, vinyl, acrylic, and epoxy resins
- Agrochemical formulation - used as a carrier/solvent in pesticide and herbicide formulations
- Chemical intermediate - building block for a range of downstream fine chemicals
- Ink and adhesive manufacturing - improves flow and film formation properties
These applications place cyclohexanone squarely in the category of an industrial solvent and chemical intermediate, distinct from consumer-grade methyl ketone solvents.
5. Key Physical and Chemical Properties
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Boiling Point | ~155–156°C |
| Melting Point | ~ -16°C |
| Density | ~0.95 g/cm³ (25°C) |
| Water Solubility | Slightly soluble (~8–9 g/100 mL) |
| Appearance | Colorless liquid |
| Odor | Strong, sweetish, acetone-like ketone odor |
| Flash Point | ~44°C (closed cup) |
6. Safety Information
Cyclohexanone requires standard industrial ketone-handling precautions:
- Flammable liquid - keep away from open flame and ignition sources
- Irritant - may irritate skin, eyes, and respiratory tract on contact or inhalation
- Storage - store in sealed containers, in a cool, ventilated area away from oxidizers
- Handling - use appropriate PPE (gloves, goggles, ventilation) per the Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
Buyers and handlers should always consult the current SDS/MSDS supplied with each shipment before use.
7. Commercial Information - Sourcing Industrial-Grade Cyclohexanone
For procurement teams evaluating cyclohexanone suppliers, the key sourcing details are:
- Product: Industrial-grade Cyclohexanone, CAS 108-94-1
- Purity: Typically ≥99% (technical/industrial grade), with CoA provided per batch
- Packaging: Available in drums, IBC totes, and ISO tank shipments for bulk orders
- Order Volume: Bulk and MOQ options available depending on shipment method
- Supply Scope: Export supply worldwide, with documentation support for customs clearance
Tianjin Gnee Biotech Co., Ltd. supplies industrial-grade cyclohexanone (CAS 108-94-1) to manufacturers in the nylon, coatings, resin, and agrochemical sectors. As a China-based chemical supplier with export experience, Tianjin Gnee Biotech Co., Ltd. offers:
- Bulk cyclohexanone supply with flexible packaging (drum / IBC / ISO tank)
- Batch-specific Certificates of Analysis (CoA) and SDS documentation
- Worldwide export logistics support
- Technical support for buyers evaluating cyclohexanone specifications against their process requirements
Buyers seeking a cyclohexanone supplier, current cyclohexanone price quotations, or bulk cyclohexanone availability can contact Tianjin Gnee Biotech Co., Ltd. directly to request a quotation and product documentation.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
Is cyclohexanone a ketone or a methyl ketone?
Cyclohexanone is a ketone, but not a methyl ketone. It is classified as a cyclic (alicyclic) ketone because its carbonyl carbon is part of a closed ring rather than bonded to a terminal methyl group.
What is cyclohexanone used for in industry?
It is used primarily as a raw material in nylon 6,6 and nylon 6 production, and as a solvent for resins, coatings, and agrochemical formulations.
Is cyclohexanone soluble in water?
It is only slightly soluble in water (roughly 8–9 g per 100 mL at room temperature), but it is miscible with most common organic solvents.
Is cyclohexanone safe for industrial use?
Yes, when handled according to standard industrial ketone-handling protocols - proper ventilation, PPE, and storage away from ignition sources - as outlined in its SDS.
What is cyclohexanone used for in polymer manufacturing?
It serves as a key precursor in the synthesis of adipic acid and caprolactam, both essential monomers for nylon polymer production.
9. Conclusion
Cyclohexanone is not a methyl ketone - it is a cyclic ketone with distinct structural, physical, and industrial characteristics. Its primary value lies in nylon production and as a specialty solvent for coatings, resins, and agrochemical formulations.
Industrial buyers can source bulk, export-grade cyclohexanone (CAS 108-94-1) with full documentation support from Tianjin Gnee Biotech Co., Ltd.
