Xylene
Xylene
Xylene (pronounced: /ˈzaɪliːn/), also known as dimethylbenzene or xylol, is a colorless, sweet-smelling liquid that is very flammable. It is used in the production of plastics, rubber, and fiberglass. Xylene is also used as a solvent and in the printing, rubber, and leather industries.
Etymology
The term "xylene" originates from the Greek word 'xylon', which means 'wood'. This is because xylene was originally obtained from distillation of wood tar.
Related Terms
- Toluene: A colorless, water-insoluble liquid with the smell associated with paint thinners. It is a mono-substituted benzene derivative, i.e., one in which a single hydrogen atom from a group of six atoms from the benzene molecule has been replaced by a univalent group, in this case, CH3.
- Benzene: A colorless and highly flammable liquid with a sweet smell, and is responsible for the aroma around petrol (gas) stations. It is used primarily as a precursor to the manufacture of chemicals with more complex structure, such as ethylbenzene and cumene, of which billions of kilograms are produced annually.
- Solvent: A substance that dissolves a solute, resulting in a solution. Solvents can be organic, like xylene, or inorganic, like water.
- Distillation: The process of heating a liquid to create vapor which is then cooled and collected as a liquid. It is used in various industrial processes, such as in the production of gasoline, distilled water, xylene, alcohol, paraffin, and many other chemicals.
Health Effects
Exposure to xylene can occur via inhalation, ingestion, eye or skin contact. It affects the brain and can cause headaches, lack of muscle coordination, dizziness, confusion, and changes in one's sense of balance. Exposure of skin to xylene may cause skin irritation. Long-term exposure may lead to mood changes, memory impairment, and damage to the liver and kidneys.
Safety Measures
When handling xylene, it is important to use protective equipment such as gloves and safety glasses. In case of a spill, absorb xylene with a non-combustible absorbent material, then place into a chemical waste container.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Xylene
- Wikipedia's article - Xylene
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