Mixed xylene (CAS 1330-20-7) is a clear, flammable liquid made up mainly of the three xylene isomers - ortho-, meta- and para-xylene - together with a smaller amount of ethylbenzene. It is one of the most widely used aromatic solvents in paints, coatings, printing inks, adhesives and industrial cleaning.
What Is Mixed Xylene?
| Chemical name | Mixed xylene (xylenes) |
|---|---|
| CAS number | 1330-20-7 |
| Composition | Blend of o-xylene, m-xylene, p-xylene and ethylbenzene (ratio varies by grade - see our isomer ratio guide) |
| Molecular formula | C₈H₁₀ (per isomer) |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid |
| Odor | Sweet, aromatic |
| Boiling range | Approx. 137–144 °C |
| Flash point | Approx. 27–32 °C |
| Solubility | Practically insoluble in water; miscible with most organic solvents |
What Is Mixed Xylene Used For?
- Paints and coatings: a strong, fast-evaporating solvent that dissolves resins and controls viscosity and flow. See our Mixed Xylene for paints and coatings product page and the guide on how much mixed xylene to add to a coating formulation.
- Printing inks: solvent for gravure and flexographic ink systems.
- Adhesives and sealants: thinner and carrier solvent for rubber-based and synthetic adhesives.
- Industrial cleaning and degreasing: removes grease, oil and resin residues from parts and equipment.
- Chemical feedstock: a source for separating individual xylene isomers, which are further processed into terephthalic acid (from p-xylene) or phthalic anhydride (from o-xylene).
Is Mixed Xylene Hazardous?
Yes. Mixed xylene is a flammable liquid and its vapor is heavier than air. It irritates the eyes, skin and respiratory tract, and inhaling high vapor concentrations can cause headache, dizziness or drowsiness. Typical GHS classification includes:
| GHS classification | Hazard statement |
|---|---|
| Flammable liquids, category 3 | H226 – Flammable liquid and vapor |
| Skin irritation, category 2 | H315 – Causes skin irritation |
| Eye irritation, category 2 | H319 – Causes serious eye irritation |
| STOT single exposure, category 3 | H335 – May cause respiratory irritation |
| Aspiration hazard, category 1 | H304 – May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways |
- These are typical values for mixed xylene; please confirm the exact classification against your current SDS before publishing.
Safe Handling and Storage
- Store in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks and open flames, in tightly closed containers.
- Use explosion-proof electrical equipment and grounding/bonding when transferring drums or tanks.
- Wear chemical-resistant gloves, goggles and, where ventilation is limited, respiratory protection.
- Check local VOC (volatile organic compound) regulations, since xylene is a regulated VOC in many regions.
FAQ
Q: What is mixed xylene made of?
A: Mainly a blend of o-, m- and p-xylene with a smaller amount of ethylbenzene; the exact isomer ratio depends on the production process and grade.
Q: Is mixed xylene the same as xylene?
A: "Xylene" is often used as shorthand for mixed xylene, but xylene also refers to each individual isomer (o-, m- or p-xylene) when sold separately.
Q: Is mixed xylene flammable?
A: Yes. It has a flash point of roughly 27–32 °C, so it should be kept away from ignition sources and stored per flammable-liquid regulations.
Q: What is mixed xylene mainly used for?
A: As a solvent in paints, coatings, printing inks and adhesives, and for industrial cleaning and degreasing.
Related reading: What is the price of mixed xylene? · Isomer ratio of o-, m- and p-xylene in mixed xylene · Evaporation rate of mixed xylene
Why Choose GNEE BIO?
- Documentation with every order: COA, TDS and SDS/MSDS. SGS third-party inspection is available on request.
- Flexible packaging and shipping: steel drums, IBC tanks and ISO tanks; FOB, CFR and CIF quotations.
- Export experience: shipments to Europe, North America, South America, the Middle East, Asia Pacific and Africa.
- Fast response: inquiries answered within 24 hours.
Company Profile
Tianjin Gnee Biotech Co., Ltd. (GNEE BIO), established in 2021, is a professional chemical supplier and exporter based in China, serving distributors, manufacturers and industrial users worldwide. We work with qualified manufacturing partners and apply strict quality control throughout the supply process. Certifications including REACH, ISO, FMQS and HALAL are available on request.
