Xylenes

About Xylenes

Xylene (dimethylbenzene) is typically offered for sale as “xylenes”, i.e., as a mixture of ortho, meta, and para xylene, IUPAC names 1,2-dimethylbenzene, 1,3-dimethylbenzene and 1,4 dimethylbenzene respectively. Each isomer has the chemical formula (CH₃)₂C₆H₄.

At room temperature xylene is a clear, colorless liquid that is flammable and greasy to the touch. Xylene has a wide range of uses. It is used as a solvent in many industrial applications, and as a pre-cursor to the manufacture of other chemicals and materials such as PET plastic bottles.

In histology it is used as a cleaning agent for microscope slides. Xylene is found in inks and adhesives, and is used in cleaning during the manufacture of electronics. It is used as a thinner in varnishes and paints.

Common Uses and Applications

• Reagent
• Solvent
• Adhesive

Industries

• Rubber
• Printing
• Leather manufacturing
• Paint
• Medical (histology)