Hexane is an alkane hydrocarbon with the
chemical formula C6H14. It is a colorless, flammable liquid with a
gasoline-like odor. Hexane exists in several isomeric forms, with normal hexane
(n-hexane) being the most common.
Here are some key details about hexane along with its CAS number:
- Chemical formula: C6H14
- Molecular weight: Approximately 86.18 g/mol
- CAS Number: 110-54-3
- Appearance: Colorless liquid
- Odor: Gasoline-like odor
- Melting point: Approximately -95°C (-139°F)
- Boiling point: Approximately 68.7°C
(155.7°F)
- Density: Approximately 0.659 g/cm³ (at
20°C)
Hexane is primarily used as a solvent in various industrial applications, including:
1. Extraction: Hexane is commonly used in the extraction of vegetable oils from seeds and nuts, such as soybean oil, corn oil, and sunflower oil. It acts as a non-polar solvent, dissolving the oil components while leaving behind the solid plant material.
2. Cleaning agent: Hexane is used as a cleaning agent in the printing, textile, and leather industries to remove oils, greases, and other contaminants from surfaces and materials.
3. Adhesive formulation: Hexane is used in the formulation of adhesives, particularly in the production of rubber cement and contact adhesives.
4. Chemical synthesis: Hexane serves as a reaction medium and solvent in various chemical synthesis processes, including pharmaceutical manufacturing and laboratory research.
5. Laboratory use: Hexane is commonly used in laboratories as a solvent for chromatography and extraction procedures.
While hexane is widely used as a solvent, it is important to handle it with care due to its flammability and potential health hazards. Prolonged exposure to hexane vapors can cause irritation to the respiratory system and, in severe cases, neurological effects. Therefore, appropriate safety measures should be implemented when working with hexane.
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