Ortho Xylene (OX)

Orhto-Xylene appears as a clear, colorless, slightly oily, flammable liquid. o-Xylene has a sweet odor. OX is less dense than water, insoluble in water and soluble with most organic solvents.

Orhto-Xylene belongs to the class of organic compounds known as o-Xylenes. These are aromatic compounds that contain an o-Xylene moiety. Orhto-Xylene is a constitutional isomer of m-xylene and p-xylene. The mixture being called Xylene.

o-Xylene occurs naturally in coal tar, various plants and is released during forest fires. OX is a component of cigarette smoke. Most o-Xylene is produced by cracking petroleum, which affords a distribution of aromatic compounds, including Xylene isomers.

Applications:

Orhto-Xylene is an important commercial chemical used to make Dioctyl Phthalate (DOP) and Phthalic Anhydride (PA) which is a precursor to many pharmaceutical syntheses, drugs, vitamins and chemicals. OX is also used to make dyes, insecticides, motor fuels and in Gasoline blending. o-Xylene is a component in many household paints and automotive exterior and engine maintenance products.

Small quantities of OX are used in solvent applications and to make bactericides, soya bean herbicides and lube oil additives. A new outlet is in the production of Polyethylene Naphthalate (PEN) Polymer, which is a high-performance Polyester used in film and rigid packaging.

Safety:

Orhto-Xylene has irritating vapors. OX vapors cause headache and dizziness. Liquid o-Xylene irritates eyes and skin. Orhto-Xylene causes severe coughing, distress, and rapidly developing pulmonary edema, if taken into lungs. OX causes nausea, vomiting, cramps, headache, and coma, if ingested. o-Xylene can be fatal. Kidney and liver damage can occur.

Storage:

Keep container of Ortho-Xylene tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed to prevent leakage. Keep OX at low temperature. Store Ortho-Xylene separately from oxidants and Acids.