Product Description
An aromatic hydrocarbon solvent used mainly as a raw material for chemical synthesis but restricted due to toxicity.
Applications:
- Chemical intermediate production
- Resin and polymer industry
- Laboratory solvent (with restrictions)
- Pharmaceutical synthesis (controlled use)
Chemical Structure and Physical PropertiesBenzene features a unique ring structure (C6H6) with alternating double bonds, giving it aromatic stability. It has a melting point of 5.5C, a boiling point of 80.1C, and is a volatile liquid with a refractive index of 1.501. Benzenes distinctive sweet smell, colorless appearance, and low viscosity make it recognizable in laboratory and industrial settings.
Applications and UsageBenzene serves as a versatile solvent in paints, varnishes, and resins, and acts as a crucial intermediate in the synthesis of chemicals such as plastics, dyes, and pharmaceuticals. It is also utilized in research labs as a reagent. Generally, benzene is directly used or blended with other chemicals, depending on the intended application.
Safety and HandlingDue to its flammable and carcinogenic nature, strict safety protocols must be followed when handling benzene. Store benzene in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas away from heat and ignition sources. Industrial users must comply with regulatory guidelines, including those set by REACH and OSHA, and use appropriate protective equipment during handling.
FAQs of Benzene Chemical Structure:
Q: How should benzene be safely stored and handled?
A: Benzene must be stored in tightly sealed steel drums or ISO tanks in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from heat and ignition sources. Proper personal protective equipment should be worn due to its flammability and carcinogenic risk, and storage areas should comply with REACH, OSHA, and related regulations.
Q: What are the main industrial uses of benzene?
A: Benzene is primarily used as a solvent in paints, varnishes, and resins. It also functions as an intermediate in the production of chemicals such as plastics, dyes, rubber, and pharmaceuticals, and is employed as a laboratory reagent for chemical reactions and analyses.
Q: When is benzene typically used during chemical processes?
A: Benzene is typically introduced during the initial stages of chemical synthesis, where it acts either as a solvent or as a starting material in the creation of more complex organic compounds. Its chemical stability and solubility in organic solvents make it an essential component in various industrial workflows.
Q: Where does industrial benzene usually originate?
A: Industrial benzene is mainly derived from petroleum and coal tar through refining and extraction processes. These sources are processed to yield high-purity benzene (99.9%), suitable for use as a solvent and intermediate in chemical manufacturing.
Q: What benefits does benzene offer as a solvent or raw material?
A: Benzenes high volatility, ability to dissolve a wide range of compounds, and chemical stability under normal conditions make it highly effective as a solvent. As a raw material, its aromatic structure allows for efficient synthesis of many valuable chemicals in industry.
Q: What are the regulatory and safety classifications associated with benzene?
A: Benzene is classified as a Flammable Liquid (Class 3), hazardous, and carcinogenic. It is regulated under international safety frameworks such as REACH and OSHA, requiring stringent handling, storage, and labeling protocols to ensure workplace safety and environmental protection.