Cyclohexane
Hexahydrobenzene, Hexamethylene, Benzene hexahydride.
- CAS
- 110-82-7
- EC
- 203-806-2
- Sectors
- Home Care & Industrial Cleaning, Plastics & Polymers, Rubber & Elastomers
Cyclohexane (CAS 110-82-7) is a non-polar organic solvent in the cycloalkane family, supplied as a colorless, flammable liquid with a mild, ether-like odor, and it serves as a key intermediate in nylon precursor production and as a degreasing and extraction solvent for oils, fats, resins and rubbers. It is primarily used as a high-purity chemical intermediate in the global production of nylon precursors, such as adipic acid and caprolactam.
As a non-polar organic solvent, it offers excellent solvency for oils, fats, resins, and rubbers, making it a staple in industrial cleaning and extraction. Its low toxicity relative to benzene makes it a preferred choice for laboratory and industrial applications.
In the manufacturing of synthetic rubber and plastics, cyclohexane serves as a critical reaction medium. Its precise boiling point and volatility allow for efficient recovery and recycling in large-scale industrial loops, improving cost-efficiency.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C6H12 |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 84.16 g/mol |
| Appearance | colorless liquid |
| Form | Liquid |
| Color | colorless |
| Odor | resembling benzene; mild, sweet, resembling chloroform. |
| Melting point | 6.47 °C |
| Boiling point | 80.7 °C @ Press: 760 Torr |
| Density | 0.7781 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C |
| Water solubility | PRACTICALLY INSOLUBLE |
| Flash point | -1 °F |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Flammable, Irritant / harmful, Health hazard, Environmental hazard |
| HS code | 29021100 |
| Grades available | Technical Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Cyclohexane
Applications
- Nylon Production: The primary feedstock for the oxidation process that yields adipic acid, essential for manufacturing Nylon 6,6.
- Adhesive Formulations: Used as a solvent in the production of rubber cements and specialized adhesives for the footwear and automotive industries.
- Industrial Cleaning: Highly effective as a degreaser for metallic parts and as a solvent for removing waxes and resins in textile processing.
Safety & Risks
Classified as a Highly Flammable Liquid and Aspiration Hazard. It is Toxic to Aquatic Life; store in explosion-proof areas and use nitrile gloves and vapor respirators.
Packaging
150kg steel drums, 800kg IBC Totes, and bulk ISO tanks.