Mixed Xylenes CAS 1330-20-7
Chelora Chemicals supplies solvent-grade and chemical-grade mixed xylenes to coatings formulators and aromatics complexes worldwide. Every consignment leaves with a batch-specific COA covering isomer distribution, non-aromatics, colour and sulphur, the current SDS and full dangerous-goods documentation.
Also known as: Xylene · Xylol · Dimethylbenzene · MX · Xylenes mixed isomers
Request a quotation
Price, lead time and a sample COA for Mixed Xylenes, usually within one working day. We ship worldwide.
Request a Quote Email the DeskDocumentation
- Batch-specific COA (isomer distribution, colour, sulphur, non-aromatics)
- Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
- Transport and dangerous-goods documents
- Third-party inspection on request
- Certificate of origin
What is Mixed Xylenes?
Mixed xylenes are the C8 aromatic cut: a mixture of para-xylene, meta-xylene, ortho-xylene and ethylbenzene in proportions set by how the stream was produced. The commercial product is a clear, flammable liquid boiling between about 137 and 144 °C.
Two completely different markets buy it. Coatings and cleaning buy it as a slow-evaporating aromatic solvent, where the isomer split barely matters. Aromatics complexes buy it as feed for para-xylene recovery, where the isomer split is the whole specification.
Typical equilibrium composition is around 40 to 45% meta-xylene, 20% para-xylene, 20% ortho-xylene and 15 to 20% ethylbenzene, though streams from different units vary widely.
Because para-xylene is the valuable isomer and only a fifth of the mixture, most chemical-grade xylene goes through adsorptive or crystallisation separation followed by isomerisation of the remaining isomers back toward equilibrium.
Why mixed xylenes specifically
- A slower aromatic solvent. Higher boiling than toluene, giving better flow and levelling in coatings without the flash-point difficulties of lighter solvents.
- The para-xylene feedstock. The entry point to purified terephthalic acid and the whole polyester chain.
- Isomer flexibility. Ortho-xylene for phthalic anhydride and meta-xylene for isophthalic acid are recovered from the same stream.
- Gasoline blending value. High octane keeps a refinery alternative open, which supports the price floor.
How Mixed Xylenes is Manufactured
Mixed xylenes come from the same aromatics units as benzene and toluene, with the isomer balance determined by the process route.
- Catalytic reforming. Reformate from naphtha reforming contains the C8 aromatic cut alongside benzene and toluene.
- Pyrolysis gasoline recovery. Hydrotreated pygas from steam crackers contributes a smaller, differently distributed C8 stream.
- Aromatics extraction. Extractive distillation or solvent extraction with sulpholane removes non-aromatics from the cut.
- Fractionation. The C8 cut is distilled away from toluene and from C9+ aromatics, giving mixed xylenes.
- Toluene disproportionation. Toluene is converted to benzene and xylenes, used where additional xylene is wanted.
- Transalkylation. Toluene and C9 aromatics are transalkylated to maximise xylene yield in para-xylene complexes.
Typical Commercial Specification
Figures below are representative of commercial solvent-grade mixed xylenes. Chemical grade for para-xylene recovery is specified on isomer distribution and non-aromatics instead — tell us the use and we will send the matching sheet.
| Parameter | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear colourless liquid, free of suspended matter |
| Total xylenes plus ethylbenzene | 99.0% min (98.5% min for some solvent grades) |
| Para-xylene | Typically 18 – 22% |
| Meta-xylene | Typically 40 – 45% |
| Ortho-xylene | Typically 18 – 22% |
| Ethylbenzene | Typically 15 – 20% |
| Non-aromatics | To grade, typically 1.0% max |
| Total sulphur | To grade, typically 1 ppm max |
| Water | To grade, typically 300 ppm max |
| Colour (Pt-Co) | 20 max |
| Distillation range | About 137 – 144 °C |
| Acid wash colour | No. 2 max |
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | C₈H₁₀ (dimethylbenzene isomers plus ethylbenzene) |
| Molecular weight | 106.17 g/mol |
| Appearance | Clear colourless liquid, aromatic odour |
| Boiling range | About 137 to 144 °C |
| Melting point | Mixture; individual isomers range from −47 to 13 °C |
| Flash point | About 25 to 30 °C (closed cup) |
| Density | About 0.864 g/cm³ at 20 °C |
| Vapour pressure | About 0.9 kPa at 20 °C |
| Vapour density (relative to air) | 3.7, heavier than air |
| Flammable limits in air | About 1.0 to 7.0% by volume |
| Autoignition temperature | About 464 °C |
| Solubility in water | Practically insoluble |
| Evaporation rate (BuAc = 1) | About 0.7 |
| Incompatibilities | Strong oxidisers, acids and halogens |
Behaviour in the process
Mixed xylenes behave as a stable aromatic solvent, with practical issues that come from the mixture rather than the chemistry:
- Slow evaporation. Slower than toluene, giving better flow and levelling but longer drying and a longer solvent retention tail in coatings.
- Isomer drift between lots. Different source units give different isomer splits, which can shift drying behaviour subtly between deliveries.
- Para-xylene crystallisation. Pure para-xylene freezes at 13 °C, so para-rich streams can deposit crystals in cold weather. The mixture itself stays liquid.
- Static accumulation. Low conductivity means charge builds during splash filling. Bonding and earthing are essential.
Xylene Grades and Related Solvents
Mixed xylenes are bought either by solvent specification or by isomer distribution, and the two buyers want almost nothing in common.
| Material | Origin / type | When it is the right choice |
|---|---|---|
| Solvent-grade mixed xylenes | 98.5 to 99%+, isomers unspecified | Paints, coatings, cleaning, agrochemical formulation |
| Chemical-grade mixed xylenes | Specified isomer distribution, low non-aromatics | Feed to para-xylene recovery and isomerisation units |
| Ortho-xylene | Single isomer, CAS 95-47-6 | Phthalic anhydride manufacture |
| Para-xylene | Single isomer, CAS 106-42-3 | PTA and the polyester chain |
| Toluene | C₇ aromatic, CAS 108-88-3 | Faster-evaporating aromatic solvent where drying speed matters |
Stated plainly: mixed xylenes and single isomers are not interchangeable. If your reaction needs one isomer, buy that isomer; if you need an aromatic solvent, the mixture is almost always the cheaper and better choice.
Industries We Supply Mixed Xylenes To
The same C8 cut goes to a coatings plant, an agrochemical formulator and a polyester complex. What changes is whether the isomer distribution is part of the specification.
Where Mixed Xylenes is Used
Volume is dominated by para-xylene recovery for polyester. Solvent use is smaller but steadier and less exposed to polyester cycles.
In para-xylene production
The mixed xylene stream is fed to a crystalliser or a simulated moving bed adsorption unit that recovers para-xylene at 99.7% or better. The remaining isomers are isomerised back to equilibrium and recycled, so the ethylbenzene content of the feed matters: it must be dealkylated or converted, and high ethylbenzene increases the energy cost per tonne of para-xylene.
As a coatings solvent
Xylene evaporates more slowly than toluene, which gives better flow, levelling and gloss in brush and spray applications. Formulators normally use it as part of a blend, with the xylene providing the tail-end solvency that prevents resin precipitation as faster solvents leave the film.
Need a specific grade, purity and packing format?
Tell us the grade, whether isomer distribution is part of your specification, the packing format you can receive and the annual quantity. We will come back with a price, a lead time, a sample COA and the full documentation set.
Quality Control & Testing
Every lot is released against a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis, with isomer distribution reported alongside purity so that both solvent and chemical users have what they need.
- Total C8 aromatics content — by gas chromatography, the primary grade measure.
- Isomer distribution — para, meta and ortho content reported individually.
- Ethylbenzene content — critical for para-xylene complexes because of isomerisation unit load.
- Non-aromatics — measured because they act as inerts and affect solvency.
- Total sulphur — reported because sulphur poisons downstream catalysts.
- Colour and acid wash colour — confirming freedom from oxidation and contamination.
- Water content and distillation range — confirming the cut is on specification.
Common Process Problems & Likely Causes
When mixed xylenes cause trouble, it is usually isomer drift, non-aromatics, water or static. This table is the shortcut our technical desk works through before anyone opens a complaint file.
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Para-xylene unit yield below plan | Low para content or high ethylbenzene in the feed | Isomer distribution on the COA |
| Coating drying slower than usual | Heavier aromatics or isomer shift between lots | Distillation range and isomer split against the previous COA |
| Resin precipitating in the formulation | Non-aromatics raising the aniline point | Non-aromatics figure and blend ratio |
| Haze or water in the drum | Moisture pick-up during transfer or storage | Water content and tank breathing |
| Crystals forming in cold weather | Para-rich stream below 13 °C | Para content and storage temperature |
| Static discharge during filling | Splash filling a low-conductivity liquid | Bonding, earthing and bottom-fill procedure |
| Isomerisation catalyst life shortening | Sulphur or nitrogen species in the feed | Sulphur result and upstream hydrotreater performance |
Packaging, Storage & Shipping
- Standard packing. 200 L drums, flexitanks, ISO tank containers, road tankers and bulk parcels.
- Storage. Cool, well-ventilated, earthed and bunded flammable-liquid storage away from ignition sources.
- Static control. Bond and earth all equipment and use bottom filling; xylenes accumulate static charge readily.
- Temperature. Ambient storage is fine for the mixture, but para-rich streams need heating above 15 °C to avoid crystallisation.
- Material compatibility. Carbon steel and stainless steel are standard. Xylene attacks many elastomers and coatings — check hose and seal specification.
- Segregation. Keep apart from oxidisers, acids and halogens.
- Shelf life. Indefinite in sealed, dry storage. Colour and water are the practical checks.
- Transport classification. UN 1307, xylenes, Class 3 flammable liquid, packing group II or III depending on flash point.
Hazards & Safe Handling
Mixed xylenes are flammable liquids with central nervous system and reproductive hazards. They are not classified as carcinogenic, but vapour exposure control and ignition control are both required.
- Flammability. Flash point about 25 to 30 °C with a flammable range of roughly 1.0 to 7.0%. Control ignition sources and bond all transfer equipment.
- Health classification. Harmful by inhalation and skin contact, skin irritant, and may cause organ damage through prolonged exposure. Not classified as carcinogenic.
- Occupational exposure. Typical limits are around 50 to 100 ppm as an 8-hour average; confirm the limit in your jurisdiction.
- Narcotic effects. High vapour concentrations cause dizziness, headache and impaired coordination. Ventilate enclosed spaces.
- Aspiration hazard. Swallowing and aspirating liquid can cause chemical pneumonitis. Never induce vomiting.
- Skin contact. Defats skin and causes dermatitis on repeated contact. Use chemical-resistant gloves.
- Heavy vapour. Vapour is nearly four times the density of air and pools at low points. Monitor at low level.
- Environment. Harmful to aquatic life; prevent entry to drains and watercourses.
Regulatory & Compliance Notes
Mixed xylenes are widely traded with established transport and occupational controls. The notes below are orientation rather than legal advice — confirm your own position with your regulatory adviser.
- GHS classification. Flammable liquid Category 3, acute toxicity Category 4, skin irritant Category 2, STOT RE Category 2 and aspiration hazard.
- Benzene content. Residual benzene is specified and limited in solvent grades because of consumer and workplace restrictions.
- REACH and inventories. Registered under EU REACH and listed on the major chemical inventories.
- Dangerous goods transport. UN 1307, Class 3, PG II or III depending on flash point. ADR, IMDG, IATA and DOT rules apply.
- VOC regulation. Solvent use in coatings and printing is subject to VOC emission limits in most regions.
- Food contact chains. Where the downstream product is polyester for packaging, additional purity documentation is normally required.
We Supply Mixed Xylenes Worldwide
Chelora Chemicals is a supplier and export partner, not a single-plant trader. We ship Mixed Xylenes from India and from partner sources to customers across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and North and South America, handling the export documentation, transport paperwork and freight so the material arrives ready to use.
- Incoterms. EXW, FOB, CIF, CFR and DAP quoted to suit your purchasing terms and freight arrangements.
- Ports. Regular shipments through Nhava Sheva (JNPT) and Mundra, with other ports arranged where routing and cargo rules allow.
- Documentation. Commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, COA, SDS and the transport declaration issued as a complete set.
- Flexible volumes. From a pallet of drums up to repeat bulk shipments on a supply contract.
- Supply continuity. Because we are independent of any one producer, a plant turnaround or a shipping disruption at one source does not have to become your stock-out.
Buying Mixed Xylenes from Chelora
We are an independent sourcing and supply partner. For mixed xylenes that means settling three things at enquiry: whether you need a solvent grade or an isomer-specified chemical grade, the non-aromatics and benzene limits, and the packing format that suits your receiving setup.
- Documentation on every lot. Batch-specific COA (isomer distribution, colour, sulphur, non-aromatics), plus SDS and the full transport paperwork.
- Analysis before commitment. Representative analysis shared ahead of a commercial order so your lab can qualify the material.
- Quantities. From a pallet of drums through to full bulk shipments on contract supply.
- Grade matching. Solvent grade or isomer-specified chemical grade, with the non-aromatics and ethylbenzene limits your unit needs.
- Inspection. Independent third-party inspection available at loading when the contract requires it.
- Related products. Toluene, Para-Xylene, Ortho-Xylene and other feedstocks alongside Mixed Xylenes from one supplier.
How ordering works
- Send the enquiry. Product, grade or purity, quantity, destination port and the Incoterm you buy on. If you have a spec sheet, attach it — it saves a round trip.
- We quote. Price, lead time, packing format and a sample COA, normally within one working day.
- Qualify the supply. For first orders or critical applications, we share the analysis and handling documentation so your technical and safety teams can sign off before you commit.
- Confirm the order. Proforma invoice issued; payment terms agreed against the volume and the relationship.
- Allocation and QC. Material allocated and released against a batch-specific COA, with an independent inspection where the contract calls for it.
- Ship and document. Filled, labelled and loaded with the full export document set, and tracked through to arrival.
Mixed Xylenes — Common Questions
The questions our technical desk is asked most often about Mixed Xylenes. If yours isn't here, call or email and you will reach someone who knows the chemistry.
What is the CAS number of mixed xylenes?
The CAS number for mixed xylenes is 1330-20-7, and the EC number is 215-535-7. The molecular formula is C₈H₁₀ with a molecular weight of 106.17 g/mol, and it is classified under HS code 2902.44.
What are mixed xylenes used for?
Two main markets: as feedstock for para-xylene recovery and the polyester chain, and as a slow-evaporating aromatic solvent in paints, coatings, inks, adhesives and agrochemical formulations.
Do you supply mixed xylenes worldwide?
Yes. Chelora Chemicals supplies and exports mixed xylenes worldwide — across Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Americas, as well as throughout India. Every consignment carries the COA, the SDS and the dangerous-goods documentation.
What is the typical isomer composition?
Around 40 to 45% meta-xylene, 18 to 22% para-xylene, 18 to 22% ortho-xylene and 15 to 20% ethylbenzene, though the exact split varies with the production unit. Every COA reports the actual distribution.
How are mixed xylenes manufactured?
By extracting and fractionating the C8 aromatic cut from catalytic reformate and hydrotreated pyrolysis gasoline. Toluene disproportionation and transalkylation of C9 aromatics supply additional volume in para-xylene complexes.
What is the difference between xylene and mixed xylenes?
In trade they are usually the same thing: xylene normally means the commercial mixture of the three isomers plus ethylbenzene. A single isomer is always named specifically, as ortho-, meta- or para-xylene.
Is xylene safer than toluene?
They are broadly comparable. Xylene has a higher flash point, which makes it easier to handle, but similar narcotic and irritant effects. Neither is classified as carcinogenic.
What are the UN number and transport class?
UN 1307, xylenes, Class 3 flammable liquid, packing group II or III depending on the measured flash point. ADR, IMDG, IATA and DOT rules apply.
How should mixed xylenes be stored?
In cool, well-ventilated, earthed and bunded flammable-liquid storage away from ignition sources and oxidisers, with bonding during transfer because xylenes accumulate static charge.
What packing sizes and order quantities are available?
200 L drums, flexitanks, ISO tank containers, road tankers and bulk parcels. Orders run from a pallet of drums up to repeat bulk cargoes on contract supply.
Why does ethylbenzene content matter?
In a para-xylene complex, ethylbenzene has to be dealkylated or isomerised before the stream can be recycled, and that consumes energy and catalyst. A feed with lower ethylbenzene is worth more to a PX producer, even though a solvent user would not notice the difference.
Why does xylene dry more slowly than toluene?
Because it boils higher — around 137 to 144 °C against 111 °C for toluene — and has a lower vapour pressure. In coatings this is usually an advantage, giving better flow and levelling before the film sets.
Ready to source Mixed Xylenes?
Send us your specification, grade and annual volume. You will get a price, a realistic lead time and a sample COA from someone who understands what the material has to do in your process — delivered anywhere in the world.