O-Xylene: Properties, Applications, and Safety Profile
O-Xylene (ortho-xylene) is one of the three isomers of xylene, a volatile aromatic hydrocarbon composed of a benzene ring with two methyl groups. O-xylene is distinguished by having the methyl groups in adjacent (ortho) positions on the ring. This clear, colorless liquid is widely used in industrial processes, primarily as a chemical intermediate.
Chemical Profile of O-Xylene
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Chemical formula: C₈H₁₀
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Molecular weight: 106.17 g/mol
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Boiling point: 144.4 °C
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Density: 0.88 g/cm³ at 20 °C
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Solubility: Insoluble in water; miscible with many organic solvents
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Odor: Sweet, aromatic
O-xylene is flammable and releases vapors that can form explosive mixtures with air. It is less reactive than many other aromatic compounds but can undergo oxidation and substitution reactions under specific conditions.
Industrial and Commercial Applications
1. Precursor in Phthalic Anhydride Production
The primary use of o-xylene is in the production of phthalic anhydride, a compound essential for making plasticizers, polyester resins, alkyd resins, and dyes. This accounts for the majority of global o-xylene consumption.
O-xylene is used as a solvent in the formulation of paints, varnishes, adhesives, inks, and coatings. It helps dissolve other substances and enhances flow and application properties.
3. Fuel Additive Component
Due to its high octane number, o-xylene may be blended into gasoline to improve combustion efficiency and performance, though this use is less common than with its isomer, p-xylene.
4. Laboratory and Research Use
In laboratory settings, o-xylene is employed as a solvent and reagent in organic synthesis and research involving aromatic hydrocarbons.
Health and Environmental Considerations
While o-xylene is widely used, it poses several health and safety concerns:
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Inhalation: Exposure to high concentrations of vapors can cause dizziness, headache, nausea, and respiratory irritation.
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Skin/Eye Contact: Can result in irritation and dryness.
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Chronic Exposure: May lead to central nervous system effects, liver and kidney damage with long-term overexposure.
Environmentally, o-xylene can contaminate air, soil, and water. Though it degrades in the atmosphere via reaction with hydroxyl radicals, it can persist in soil and groundwater if released in significant quantities.
Safe Handling Practices
To minimize risk, proper safety protocols should be followed:
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Use in well-ventilated or controlled environments
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Avoid direct skin or eye contact by using gloves and goggles
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Store in tightly sealed containers away from sources of ignition
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Use explosion-proof equipment where necessary
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Follow all relevant local and international chemical safety regulations
Regulatory Status
O-xylene is regulated in many jurisdictions with occupational exposure limits to protect workers. Industrial users must also follow guidelines for emissions, storage, and disposal. Regulations aim to balance the compound’s utility with environmental and health concerns.
Conclusion
O-xylene is an important industrial chemical, valued for its role in synthesizing phthalic anhydride and its use as a solvent. However, its flammability and potential health hazards require diligent safety practices. As industrial practices evolve, there is ongoing research into greener alternatives and safer processing methods to reduce the environmental footprint associated with aromatic hydrocarbons like o-xylene.
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