Cyclohexanone
Cyclic ketone widely used as industrial solvent and chemical intermediate
Overview
Cyclohexanone (CAS No: 108-94-1) is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a characteristic ketone odor. As an important ketone derivative of cycloalkanes, it is a versatile solvent and chemical intermediate widely used in industry.
Cyclohexanone has moderate solubility in water and can be mixed with most organic solvents in all proportions. It is an excellent solvent especially for cellulose esters, resins, oils, and waxes. It is widely used in paint, resin, pharmaceutical, and chemical synthesis industries.
Applications
Cyclohexanone has a wide range of industrial and chemical applications:
Paints and Coatings
Used as a primary solvent for cellulosic and synthetic resins. Particularly common in automotive and industrial paints.
Resin Production
Used as a solvent and reaction medium in polymer and resin production. Especially an intermediate in nylon 6 and nylon 66 production.
Pharmaceuticals
Used as a solvent and intermediate in drug production. An important component in steroid and hormone synthesis.
Chemical Synthesis
An important intermediate in organic synthesis. Used in the production of caprolactam, adipic acid, and other cyclohexane derivatives.
Ink Production
Used as a solvent and viscosity regulator in printing inks. Particularly preferred in high-performance inks.
Adhesives
Used as a solvent in industrial adhesive formulations. Particularly effective in PVC and other plastic adhesives.
Technical Specifications
| Property | Value | Unit | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C₆H₁₀O | - | - |
| CAS Number | 108-94-1 | - | - |
| EC Number | 203-631-1 | - | - |
| Molecular Weight | 98.15 | g/mol | - |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid | - | Visual |
| Odor | Sharp, ketonic | - | Olfactometry |
| Density (20°C) | 0.947-0.949 | g/cm³ | ASTM D4052 |
| Boiling Point | 155.6 | °C | ASTM D1078 |
| Melting Point | -47 | °C | ASTM D1015 |
| Flash Point | 44 | °C | ASTM D93 |
| Autoignition Temperature | 420 | °C | ASTM E659 |
| Vapor Pressure (20°C) | 0.48 | kPa | ASTM D2879 |
| Viscosity (20°C) | 2.2 | cP | ASTM D445 |
| Water Solubility (20°C) | 50 g/L | - | ASTM D1720 |
| pH Value | 5-7 | - | ASTM E70 |
| Purity (GC) | ≥99.5 | % | ASTM D3545 |
| Water Content | ≤0.05 | % | ASTM E203 |
Safety Information
Hazard Symbols and Statements
Flammable Eye and skin irritation Central nervous system effects
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
- Chemical goggles or face shield
- Respiratory protection equipped with organic vapor filter (at high vapor concentrations)
- Chemical-resistant apron or work clothes
- Proper ventilation or local exhaust system
Storage Conditions
- Store in a cool, well-ventilated, fire-resistant area
- Keep away from fire and spark sources
- Store in original closed containers, protected from sunlight
- Store separately from oxidizing agents
- Storage temperature: 15-25°C
Fire Fighting
- Suitable extinguishers: Dry chemical, CO₂, alcohol-resistant foam
- Water spray can be used for cooling
- Intervention by trained personnel with appropriate respiratory protection
Handling and Storage
Handling
- Ensure containers are tightly closed during transport
- Ground to prevent static electricity buildup
- Provide adequate ventilation in transport vehicles
- Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking during handling
Storage
- Store in stainless steel, polyethylene, or glass containers
- Display "Flammable Liquid" signs in storage area
- Use appropriate breathing vents on storage tanks
- Use explosion-proof electrical systems when storing large quantities
Spill Response Measures
- Remove all fire sources
- Use appropriate respiratory protection
- Absorb spill with sand, chemical sponge, or other absorbent materials
- Dispose of absorbed material properly
- Wash spilled area with plenty of water and detergent
Regulatory Information
GHS Classification
- Flammable Liquid Category 3
- Skin Irritation Category 2
- Eye Irritation Category 2A
- Specific Target Organ Toxicity (Single Exposure) Category 3
Important Regulations
- REACH: Registered
- CLP: Compliant
- OSHA: Subject to hazard communication standard
- NFPA 704: Health 2, Flammability 2, Reactivity 0
International Regulations
- European Union: Subject to directive 2008/58/EC
- USA: Subject to EPA VOC regulations
- China: Listed in IECSC
- Japan: Listed in ISHL
Environmental Information
Environmental Impact
Cyclohexanone degrades at a moderate rate in the atmosphere through photochemical reactions (half-life 2-5 days). When mixed with water sources, it is moderately toxic to aquatic organisms. It is biodegradable but may persist in the environment for an extended period.
Biodegradation
- Air: Half-life of 2-5 days through photochemical reactions
- Water: Degrades in 7-14 days by microbial activity
- Soil: Moderate degradation by microbial activity
Waste Management
- Classified as hazardous waste
- Small quantities can be disposed of by biological treatment in licensed facilities
- Large quantities must be incinerated in licensed hazardous waste disposal facilities
- Dispose in accordance with local regulations
Frequently Asked Questions
How is cyclohexanone produced?
Cyclohexanone is produced mainly by two methods: 1) Catalytic oxidation of cyclohexane with air, 2) Hydrogenation of phenol. Continuous distillation processes are used on an industrial scale.
What is the difference between cyclohexanone and cyclohexanol?
Cyclohexanone is a ketone while cyclohexanol is an alcohol. Cyclohexanone has a higher boiling point and is a stronger solvent.
Does cyclohexanone damage plastics?
Cyclohexanone is a strong solvent for most plastics. Polyethylene and polypropylene are resistant to short-term contact but long-term contact should be avoided.
What is the shelf life of cyclohexanone?
When stored in properly closed containers, cyclohexanone has a shelf life of approximately 2 years. It should be tightly sealed to prevent water absorption and oxidation.
What should I do when cyclohexanone contacts skin?
Remove contaminated clothing immediately and wash with plenty of water and soap. Prolonged contact can cause dryness and irritation to the skin. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.