When sourcing xylene derivatives, buyers often need to distinguish between o-xylene (ortho-xylene) and m-xylene (meta-xylene). Although both share the same molecular formula C₈H₁₀, their structures, properties, and applications are different. Understanding these differences ensures you select the right material for your industry.
O-Xylene(Ortho-xylene)
- Also known as 1,2-dimethylbenzene, CAS No. 95-47-6, chemical formula C₈H₁₀, molecular weight 106.165.
- Melting point: –26 to –23 °C
- Boiling point: 143 to 145 °C
- Flash point: 16 °C
- Density: 0.879 g/cm³
O-Xylene is a colorless, transparent liquid, insoluble in water but miscible with ethanol, ether, chloroform, and most other organic solvents.
M-Xylene(Meta-xylene)
- Also known as 1,3-dimethylbenzene, CAS No. 108-38-3, chemical formula C₈H₁₀.
- Melting point: –48 °C
- Boiling point: 139 °C
- Flash point: 25 °C (closed cup)
- Density: 0.868 g/cm³
M-Xylene is a colorless, transparent liquid with a toluene-like odor. It is insoluble in water but miscible with ethanol, ether, chloroform, and most other organic solvents.
Physical Properties Comparison
| Property | o-Xylene (CAS 95-47-6) | m-Xylene (CAS 108-38-3) |
|---|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C₈H₁₀ | C₈H₁₀ |
| Boiling Point (°C) | ~144 | ~139 |
| Appearance | Colorless liquid | Colorless liquid |
| Odor | Aromatic, sweet | Aromatic, sweet |
Industrial Applications
O-Xylene Uses
O-Xylene is the second commercial isomer of xylene, and almost all of it is used in the manufacture of phthalic anhydride (PA), which has three main uses, including the use in the manufacture of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resins, the production of unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs). and making alkyl resins that are used for surface coatings.
M-Xylene Uses
Major chemical use of meta-xylene is in the manufacture of isophthalic acid, which is used as a copolymerizing monomer to alter the properties of polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
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