Thanks to its efficacy as a solvent and a raw ingredient for many types of plastic, xylene is one of the most versatile and useful industrial chemicals. SolvChem® Custom Packaging Division has the expertise and experience to help you meet your needs when it comes to blending, packaging and storing this chemical, making us your go-to source for xylene.
Also known as xylol solvent, this is an aromatic hydrocarbon solvent produced during the distillation of petroleum, coal tar or wood. It is characterized by its strong odor as well as being colorless and slightly greasy to the touch. In addition to being a solvent commonly used for producing coatings, paints, adhesives and in chemical synthesis, it’s also a key ingredient of terephthalic acid used to produce polyester and PET plastics.
Key Benefits of Xylene
One of the primary reasons xylene is used so frequently in industrial processes is its high solvency. It can dissolve resins, waxes and adhesives with exceptional performance. This is why it’s often used as a thinner for oil-based paints and coatings, for example. However, it also boasts a slow evaporation rate, which makes it well-suited for cleaning and degreasing applications. Xylene solvent also has a high boiling point, which helps support processes that require elevated temperatures.
Industrial Applications of Xylene
Xylene is used for a wide range of applications across multiple industries. Among the many use cases for xylene in various sectors include:
- Coatings and paints: Xylene thinners can be used for producing varnishes, enamels and oil-based paints.
- Chemical synthesis: Industrial xylene is a key raw material for producing synthetic fibers, plastics and even some pharmaceuticals.
- Cleaning and degreasing: Effective at removing heavy oils, greases and residues from metal surfaces, xylene is a common cleaning agent in industrial settings.
- Printing inks and adhesives: High-speed printing processes and certain adhesive formulations depend on xylene.
- Petroleum refining: When used in the fuel blending process, xylene can improve octane ratings.
- Laboratory use: Histology labs in particular depend on xylene to prepare tissue and remove paraffins.
Safe Handling and Storage
Just as is the case with all industrial chemicals, xylene should be handled properly with attention paid to all safety protocols. This means storing it in approved containers away from heat and flame to prevent combustion, as well as ensuring those containers are adequately labeled. Workers also should wear personal protective equipment and have sufficient ventilation when handling xylene due to inhalation risks. SolvChem® Custom Packaging Division’s expertise with these chemicals ensures they will be handled properly at all times.
Why Choose SolvChem® Custom Packaging Division for Custom Xylene Blending?
Thanks to our decades of experience and state-of-the-art production facilities, no other xylene suppliers can match what we offer. We offer you flexible batch sizes to meet your needs as well as fast, reliable shipping from our location near the Port of Houston. In addition, our comprehensive safety and quality control processes ensure that what we create for you will be fully compliant and meet all your expectations. To learn more about what makes is a leading xylene manufacturer, get in touch with one of our experts today.