Toluene

Other Names:
Methylbenzene, Toluol, Phenylmethane, Monomethyl Benzene, Methacide, Methylbenzol, Tolu-sol

Specification Summary

• Purity: ≥99.5% (industrial/technical grade)
• Form: Clear, colorless, volatile liquid
• CAS No.: 108-88-3
• Molecular Formula: C₇H₈
• Molecular Weight: 92.14 g/mol

Product Description

Toluene is a clear, colorless liquid with a sweet, pungent aromatic odor. It is highly flammable and volatile, with a moderate evaporation rate and high solvent power. Toluene is only slightly soluble in water (0.54 g/kg at 25°C) but is miscible with most organic solvents including ethanol, ether, acetone, and carbon disulfide. It is non-corrosive, does not exhibit alkaline properties, and remains chemically stable under recommended storage conditions. Toluene floats on water due to its lower density and vapor is heavier than air, requiring careful handling and storage away from ignition sources.

Toluene Specification Table

Downloadable TDS:

A comprehensive Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is available for download, providing detailed mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties, as well as processing guidelines for polystyrene

Application Sectors and Industries of Toluene

Paints & Coatings
Toluene is a primary solvent in paints, varnishes, and lacquers, providing excellent solvency for resins and pigments. Its rapid evaporation rate ensures smooth film formation and fast drying, making it indispensable in automotive, industrial, and decorative coatings

Adhesives & Sealants
Used to dissolve and disperse resins and polymers, toluene enhances the application and performance of adhesives and sealants in construction, woodworking, and packaging industries

Chemical Manufacturing
Toluene is a critical feedstock for the synthesis of benzene, benzoic acid, toluene diisocyanate (TDI), and other chemicals. It is also involved in the production of explosives (TNT), dyes, and pharmaceuticals

Pharmaceuticals
Acts as a solvent and reaction medium in the manufacture of active pharmaceutical ingredients, intermediates, and extraction processes for medicinal compounds

Rubber & Tire Industry
Toluene is used as a solvent in the production and processing of synthetic rubber, improving the mixing and application of rubber compounds in tires and industrial products

Printing Inks
Provides fast-drying and high solvency for pigments and binders in printing inks, ensuring sharp print quality and efficient production in commercial printing

Oil & Gas
Employed as a diluent and cleaning agent for oilfield equipment, pipelines, and storage tanks. Toluene is also used as an octane booster in gasoline blends

Electronics
Used for cleaning and degreasing electronic components and circuit boards, toluene ensures residue-free surfaces for assembly and repair

Cosmetics & Personal Care
Toluene is a solvent in nail polish, removers, and other cosmetic formulations, offering quick drying and uniform application

Laboratory & Research
Essential for sample preparation, chromatography, and organic synthesis in analytical and research laboratories due to its high purity and solvency

Packaging Types

• 200 kg Drums: Sealed steel or HDPE drums for secure, bulk storage and transport.
• IBC Totes (1,000 liters): Intermediate bulk containers for high-volume industrial users.
• Bulk Tankers: Insulated stainless-steel tankers for direct delivery to manufacturing facilities.
• 20–25 Liter Cans: Convenient containers for laboratory and specialty applications.
• Custom Packaging: Available for research, pilot plants, or customer-specific requirements.

Toluene is a versatile, high-purity solvent and chemical intermediate essential for modern manufacturing and processing. Its combination of strong solvency, rapid evaporation, and compatibility with a wide range of materials underpins its widespread use across industries. For comprehensive technical specifications, safety data, and guidance on safe handling, request the downloadable TDS.