What Is the Density and Viscosity of Mixed Xylene?
Mixed Xylene (CAS 1330-20-7) has a typical density of approximately 0.860–0.870 g/cm³ at 20°C and a typical kinematic viscosity of approximately 0.6–0.8 cP (mPa·s) at 20°C, depending on the exact isomer ratio of the batch. These two properties are among the most important physical specifications formulators check when using mixed xylene as a solvent in paints, coatings, adhesives and inks, because they directly influence how the solvent behaves when blended into a resin system and applied to a surface.
Density and Viscosity by Isomer
Since commercial mixed xylene is a blend of o-xylene, m-xylene, p-xylene and often trace ethylbenzene, its density and viscosity sit within the range defined by its individual components:
| Component | Density at 20°C (g/cm³, approx.) | Viscosity at 20°C (cP, approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| o-Xylene (CAS 95-47-6) | 0.880 | 0.81 |
| m-Xylene | 0.864 | 0.62 |
| p-Xylene | 0.861 | 0.65 |
| Ethylbenzene | 0.867 | 0.67 |
| Commercial Mixed Xylene | ~0.860–0.870 | ~0.6–0.8 |
- Note: These are typical published reference ranges. Actual density and viscosity vary slightly by production batch and isomer ratio - always confirm against the current TDS/COA for the specific grade you purchase.
Why Density Matters in Coating Formulation and Logistics
Density affects both formulation and supply chain decisions:
- Formulation by weight vs. volume - Many coating formulas are built on a weight basis, so knowing mixed xylene's density is necessary to convert accurately between weight and volume dosing.
- Solids content and VOC calculations - Density is used to calculate volume solids and VOC content (g/L) in a finished coating, which is important for regulatory compliance in many markets.
- Freight and packaging planning - Because mixed xylene is typically sold and shipped in drums, IBC totes or ISO tanks, density is used to calculate fill weights, freight costs and container loading - a detail our logistics team factors into every bulk order.
Why Viscosity Matters in Coating Formulation
Viscosity determines how easily mixed xylene flows and how effectively it reduces the viscosity of a resin solution:
- Thinning power - Mixed xylene's relatively low viscosity (compared to many resins and heavier solvents) makes it effective for reducing formulation viscosity to a target spray, brush or dip-application range.
- Flow and leveling - Proper viscosity control affects how well a coating levels out after application, influencing gloss, film uniformity and the presence of brush marks or orange peel.
- Compatibility with application equipment - Spray guns, in particular, require formulations within a defined viscosity window; mixed xylene is commonly used to bring high-solids or high-viscosity resin systems into a sprayable range.
Because viscosity and evaporation rate work together to determine drying behavior, formulators often review mixed xylene's viscosity alongside its evaporation profile.
How Density and Viscosity Relate to Other Mixed Xylene Properties
Density and viscosity don't act in isolation - they interact with boiling point and flash point to define the overall solvent performance profile of mixed xylene:
| Property | Typical Value | Related Article |
|---|---|---|
| Boiling Range | ~137–140°C | Mixed Xylene Boiling Point |
| Flash Point (Closed Cup) | ~27–32°C | Mixed Xylene Flash Point |
| Density at 20°C | ~0.860–0.870 g/cm³ | This article |
| Viscosity at 20°C | ~0.6–0.8 cP | This article |
How GNEE BIO Documents Mixed Xylene Specifications
Tianjin Gnee Biotech Co., Ltd. (GNEE BIO), a chemical raw material supplier and exporter since 2021, supplies Mixed Xylene (CAS 1330-20-7) in bulk to paint, coating, adhesive and ink manufacturers worldwide, with full technical support:
- Technical Data Sheet (TDS) listing density, viscosity, boiling range and flash point for the specific production batch
- Certificate of Analysis (COA) confirming actual test results at the time of shipment
- SDS/MSDS for safe handling and transport
- Flexible packaging (drums, IBC tanks, ISO tanks) with density-based fill and freight planning
- Third-party inspection (e.g., SGS) available on request
FAQ: Mixed Xylene Density and Viscosity
Q: Why does mixed xylene's density vary slightly between suppliers?
Density depends on the exact isomer ratio (o-, m-, p-xylene) and ethylbenzene content of the specific production batch, which can differ slightly by production source. Always check the batch-specific COA for an exact figure.
Q: Is mixed xylene more or less viscous than water?
Mixed xylene's viscosity (~0.6–0.8 cP at 20°C) is lower than water (~1.0 cP at 20°C), meaning it flows more easily and is effective at reducing the viscosity of thicker resin solutions.
Q: How is density used when calculating VOC content in a coating?
Density converts a formulation's weight-based solvent content into volume-based VOC content (g/L), which is required for compliance reporting in many regulatory frameworks. Formulators should use the density value from the current mixed xylene TDS for accurate calculations.
To request the current TDS with exact density and viscosity data for your order, contact GNEE BIO or view the Mixed Xylene product page.