Ortho-xylene (OX) is an important aromatic hydrocarbon compound with the chemical formula C₈H₁₀. It is one of the three isomers of xylene (ortho, meta, and para-xylene). It is a colorless, transparent, flammable liquid with a characteristic aromatic odor and is widely used in chemical, pharmaceutical, and pesticide industries.
What are the properties of o-xylene?
O-xylene is a constitutional isomer of m-xylene and p-xylene, the mixture being called xylene or xylenes. o-Xylene is a colourless slightly oily flammable liquid.
- Molecular weight: 106.16 g/mol
- Boiling point: 144.4°C
- Melting point: -25.2°C
- Density: 0.88 g/cm³ (20°C)
- Solubility: Easily soluble in ethanol and ether, insoluble in water
How is ortho-xylene manufactured?
O-xylene (CAS 95-47-6) mainly comes from the petrochemical industry. Its production process includes:
Petroleum catalytic reforming
During petroleum refining, mixed xylenes (MX) are extracted from naphtha through catalytic reforming, and then o-xylene is obtained through distillation.
Toluene Disproportionation and Alkyl Transfer
Toluene undergoes a disproportionation reaction with C₉ aromatics to produce benzene and xylene, which are then purified by adsorption separation or crystallization.
Coal Tar Extraction
In coal chemical industry, coal tar can be fractionated to obtain mixed xylenes, which can be further separated to produce o-xylene.
What is o-Xylene used for?
O-xylene (1, 2-Dimethylbenzene) is an important chemical intermediate with wide downstream applications, mainly including:
Production of Phthalic Anhydride (PA)
O-xylene can be catalytically oxidized to produce phthalic anhydride (PA), a key raw material for the production of plasticizers (such as DOP and DBP), unsaturated polyester resins (UPR), and alkyd resins.
Dye and Pigment Industry
O-xylene can be used to synthesize anthraquinone dyes, phthalocyanine pigments, etc., and is widely used in the textile, ink, and coating industries.
Pesticide and Pharmaceutical Intermediates
Pesticides: Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of insecticides and fungicides.
Pharmaceuticals: Used as a raw material in the synthesis of certain antibiotics and vitamins.
Solvents and Additives
As a high-boiling-point solvent, it is used in the paint, adhesive, and ink industries.
In rubber and plastics processing, it is used as an additive to improve material properties.
What are the storage conditions for o xylene?
- O-xylene is a flammable liquid. The following precautions should be taken when using it:
- Storage: Store in a cool, well-ventilated place, away from fire and oxidizers.
- Protection: Wear a respirator, goggles, and protective gloves when handling.
- Spill Handling: Absorb with sand; avoid spillage into sewers.
O-xylene(CAS 95-47-6), as a basic chemical raw material, plays an irreplaceable role in many industrial sectors. With technological advancements and increasingly stringent environmental requirements, its production processes and application scope will continue to be optimized, resulting in a broad market prospect.
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