What Is Cyclohexanone (CAS 108-94-1)?
Cyclohexanone (CAS 108-94-1, molecular formula C6H10O) is a colorless to light yellow oily liquid with a characteristic pungent, peppermint-like odor. It belongs to the cyclic ketone family, is slightly soluble in water, and is miscible with most common organic solvents such as alcohols, ethers and aromatic hydrocarbons. Its strong dissolving power for resins, oils and waxes makes it one of the most widely used industrial solvents and chemical intermediates.
Industrially, more than 90% of cyclohexanone output is consumed as an intermediate for caprolactam and adipic acid, the two key building blocks of nylon 6 and nylon 66. It is also a common solvent in coatings, adhesives, leather finishing and printing inks.
Typical Specification of Cyclohexanone
Commercial industrial-grade cyclohexanone is normally supplied at a purity of 99.5% or higher. The table below shows a typical specification commonly used in the trade.
| Item | Unit | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Purity | % | 99.8 min |
| Moisture | % | 0.10 max |
| Density (20 C) | g/cm3 | 0.945 - 0.947 |
| Acidity (as acetic acid) | % | 0.01 max |
| Color (Pt-Co) | Hazen | 15 max |
| Distillation range | C | 153 - 157 |
| Appearance | - | Clear transparent liquid |
Boiling point: 155.6 C; flash point: 44 C (closed cup); UN number: 1915, Class 3. Buyers should request a certificate of analysis (COA) confirming purity, water content and acidity before shipment.
Main Applications
Cyclohexanone serves as a key raw material in several industries:
Nylon intermediates: oxidation or oximation routes to adipic acid and caprolactam for nylon 6 and nylon 66 fibers and engineering plastics.
Coatings and lacquers: solvent for nitrocellulose, vinyl and acrylic resin systems.
Adhesives and PVC cements: dissolves and plasticizes polymer binders.
Agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals: building block in the synthesis of insecticides, herbicides and drug intermediates.
Printing inks, leather finishing and degreasing formulations.
Packaging and Storage
Cyclohexanone is usually shipped in 190 kg steel drums, 1,000 L IBC totes, or ISO tank containers for bulk orders. Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks and oxidizers. Keep containers grounded during transfer to avoid static discharge.
Safety and Handling
Cyclohexanone is classified as a flammable liquid (GHS Flam. Liq. 3, H226) and is harmful if swallowed (H302). It can irritate the skin, eyes and respiratory tract, and prolonged exposure may cause central nervous system effects. Use chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles and adequate ventilation when handling. In case of fire, use foam, dry powder or carbon dioxide; water spray may be used to cool exposed containers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is cyclohexanone mainly used for?
Over 90% of production goes to caprolactam and adipic acid for nylon; the rest is used as an industrial solvent.
Q: What items appear on a typical cyclohexanone certificate of analysis?
A typical COA lists purity (99.8% min), moisture (0.10% max), density at 20 C (0.945-0.947 g/cm3), acidity as acetic acid (0.01% max), color (15 Hazen max) and distillation range (153-157 C).
Q: What packaging is used for cyclohexanone?
Cyclohexanone is usually shipped in 190 kg steel drums, 1,000 L IBC totes or ISO tank containers for bulk orders, and it should be stored in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
Q: Is cyclohexanone soluble in water?
Cyclohexanone is only slightly soluble in water but is miscible with most common organic solvents such as alcohols, ethers and aromatic hydrocarbons.
Q: What is the distillation range of commercial cyclohexanone?
The distillation range is typically 153-157 C, and together with purity, moisture and acidity it is one of the key acceptance criteria on the certificate of analysis.
Q: What are the main solvent applications of cyclohexanone?
It is a solvent for nitrocellulose, vinyl and acrylic resin systems in coatings and lacquers, and it is used in adhesives, PVC cements, printing inks, leather finishing and degreasing formulations.