ABSTRACT
Mixed xylene consists of a mixture of ethyl benzene and the m-, ο-, and p- isomers of xylene; m-xylene predominating. Mixed xylene may also contain other hydrocarbons such as benzene, toluene, trimethylbenzene, phenol, thiophene, and pyridine; benzene levels are minimal (less than 0.001%). The uses of xylene include: as a solvent in paints and coatings, household products, gasoline, insecticides (both o- and p-xylene); and in the production of ethyl benzene. M-xylene is a chemical intermediate in the production of isophthalic acid, m-toluic acid, and isophthalonitrile. O-xylene is a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of phthalic anhydride, polyesters, isophthalic acid, vitamins, and pharmaceuticals. P-xylene is a chemical intermediate used in the synthesis of dimethyl terephthalate, vitamins, and pharmaceuticals.
