What is ortho-xylene?
Orthoxylene is a chemical compound of the aromatic hydrocarbon class and a derivative of xylene. Xylenes are a mixture of three different isomers: ortho-xylene, meta-xylene, and para-xylene. Ortho-xylene has the chemical structure C₆H₄(CH₃)₂, with two methyl groups (-CH₃) attached to the benzene ring.
Advantages and characteristics of ortho-xylene
Laboratory xylene has a high octane number and also a low vapor pressure and contains about 40 to 50 percent meta-xylene and more than 20 percent ortho-xylene, para-xylene, and ethylbenzene, which is an excellent mixture for adding to gasoline. It is also worth noting that the physical and chemical properties of the different isomers of this substance, including their polarity and acidity, are different.
Specifications and properties of ortho-xylene |
| Chemical name | Orthoxylene |
| Latin name | Orthoxylene |
| Chemical form | It is a colorless liquid with a recognizable odor |
| Boiling point Xylene | The boiling point of ortho-xylene is 144.4 °C, meta-xylene is 139.1 °C, and para-xylene is 138.4 °C. |
| Solubility | Xylene is insoluble in water but soluble in many organic solvents such as alcohol and ether. |
| Country of origin | Iran |
Application of O-Xylene
This substance is used in various sectors of the industry and in the production of various products, due to its properties and practical characteristics, for example, in the production of various xylene isomers, namely para-xylene, ortho-xylene, and meta-xylene, in the adhesive production industry to reduce viscosity, in the production of waterproof coatings and transmission line pipes, as a solvent in the printing, rubber, paint, and leather industries, in washing transportation equipment to clean railway tracks, multi-faceted containers of aircraft tanks, and old paint containers, etc.
Structural formula of o-xylene
The structural formula of xylene consists of a benzene ring with two methyl groups (-CH₃) attached to it. Depending on the position of these methyl groups relative to each other, there are three different isomers of xylene: ortho-xylene (o-xylene), meta-xylene (m-xylene), and para-xylene (p-xylene).
Structural formula of each of the xylene isomers:
- Ortho-Xylene (o-Xylene): Methyl groups are located at positions 1 and 2 of the benzene ring.
- Meta-Xylene (m-Xylene): Methyl groups are located at positions 1 and 3 of the benzene ring.
- Para-Xylene (p-Xylene): Methyl groups are located at positions 1 and 4 of the benzene ring.
Production and Manufacturing of Orthoxylene
The production process of ortho-xylene (O-Xylene) is mainly carried out through oil and natural gas refining processes. One of the main methods of producing ortho-xylene is catalytic reforming. In this method, petroleum hydrocarbons with longer chains are converted into aromatic compounds such as benzene, toluene and xylenes (including ortho-xylene) in the presence of metal catalysts such as platinum at high temperature and high pressure. This reaction produces aromatic compounds that are used as base products in various industries.
After production, ortho-xylene must be separated from a mixture of xylene isomers including meta-xylene and para-xylene. This is done by fractional distillation, which allows the isomers to be separated due to their different boiling points. In some cases, other processes, such as crystallization, are used to further purify ortho-xylene. The final product is widely used as a raw material in the production of phthalic anhydride, plastics, paints, and resins.
Conditions of Use, Hazards, and Storage of Ortho-xylene
Inhalation of xylene vapor can cause central nervous system depression and symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting, beginning at exposure levels of about 100 ppm. With short-term exposure, xylene can damage the nervous system and cause chemical pneumonitis if swallowed. Prolonged exposure to xylene can also cause skin dryness and irritation, and may cause symptoms such as irritability, depression, insomnia, fatigue, and memory problems. Animal studies have also shown that xylene can harm growth and reproductive systems.
So be sure to wear gloves, a mask, goggles, and protective clothing when handling this substance.
Note that ortho-xylene should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat and fire, as it is highly flammable and toxic. Its containers should be tightly closed and kept separate from other materials. Even empty containers can pose a fire hazard due to residue.
