M-Xylene (CAS 108-38-3) is mainly used as a chemical raw material, an industrial solvent, and an intermediate for producing other chemicals. Also called meta-xylene or 1,3-dimethylbenzene, it is an aromatic hydrocarbon used in chemical manufacturing, coatings, and organic synthesis.
1. Chemical Raw Material
M-Xylene is an important raw material for producing isophthalic acid, isophthalonitrile, trimellitic anhydride, and m-toluic acid. Among these downstream products, isophthalic acid is one of the important applications of m-xylene.
M-Xylene can be oxidized to produce isophthalic acid, which is used in the production of resins and other polymer materials. Isophthalic acid-based unsaturated polyester resins are used in construction, transportation, marine applications, and other industrial products.
For buyers sourcing m-xylene as a chemical feedstock, the required specification depends on the downstream process and the quality requirements of the final product.
2. Dyes and Coatings
M-Xylene is used as a solvent or chemical intermediate in selected dye and coating applications. In dye manufacturing, it can participate in processes where an aromatic solvent or chemical feedstock is required.
M-Xylene is also used in some polyester and urethane coating formulations. Its solvent properties can help dissolve organic components and support the processing of coating formulations.
The amount of m-xylene used in a formulation depends on the resin system, other solvents, and the technical requirements of the finished coating.
3. Industrial Solvent
M-Xylene is used as an aromatic organic solvent in chemical manufacturing and organic synthesis. It has very low solubility in water and is soluble in many organic solvents, including ether and chloroform.
These properties make m-xylene suitable for selected processes that require an aromatic solvent. The appropriate grade should be selected according to the specific formulation or production process.
M-Xylene Applications at a Glance
M-Xylene serves two main industrial roles: it is used as a chemical feedstock for downstream products and as an aromatic solvent in selected formulations and chemical processes.
| Application | Role of M-Xylene | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical manufacturing | Raw material / intermediate | Isophthalic acid, isophthalonitrile, trimellitic anhydride, m-toluic acid |
| Resin production | Chemical feedstock | Unsaturated polyester resins |
| Dyes and coatings | Solvent / intermediate | Selected dye, polyester, and urethane coating formulations |
| Organic synthesis | Organic solvent | Selected chemical synthesis and formulation processes |
What Should Buyers Check When Purchasing M-Xylene?
Buyers should confirm the product identity, specification, documentation, quantity, and intended application before purchasing m-xylene.
The main information to check includes:
- Product: M-Xylene / Meta-Xylene
- CAS Number: 108-38-3
- IUPAC Name: 1,3-Dimethylbenzene
- Grade and purity: Confirm according to the intended application
- COA: Check the analytical results for the supplied batch
- SDS: Review handling, storage, and transportation information
- TDS: Check the applicable technical specifications
- Packaging: Confirm the required packaging and quantity
- Order volume: Specify the required quantity when requesting a quotation
- Destination: Provide the destination port or delivery location
The m-xylene specification should be confirmed with the supplier before an industrial order is placed. This is particularly important when m-xylene will be used as a chemical feedstock or as part of a controlled formulation.
Frequently Asked Questions About M-Xylene
What Is M-Xylene Mainly Used For?
M-Xylene is mainly used as a chemical raw material, intermediate, and aromatic solvent. Its important industrial applications include the production of isophthalic acid and other chemical intermediates, as well as selected coating and organic synthesis applications.
What Is M-Xylene Used to Make?
M-Xylene is used to produce chemical intermediates including isophthalic acid, isophthalonitrile, trimellitic anhydride, and m-toluic acid. The specific downstream product depends on the production process.
What Is the CAS Number of M-Xylene?
The CAS number of m-xylene is 108-38-3. Its IUPAC name is 1,3-dimethylbenzene, and it is also known as meta-xylene.
Is M-Xylene Used as a Solvent?
Yes, m-xylene is used as an aromatic organic solvent in selected industrial and chemical synthesis applications. Its suitability depends on the formulation and the required product specification.
Is M-Xylene Soluble in Water?
M-Xylene has very low solubility in water and is soluble in many organic solvents. This property is relevant when m-xylene is selected for solvent-based formulations and chemical processing.
