Toluene (General Use)

Description

• Looking for toluene for general use?

  • We supply toluene for general use in 2.5L and 25L containers, as well as 200L drums and 25,000L tanker
  • Some options offer discounts for bulk orders over 4 items, but contact us for further information
  • MSDS available to download from our website
  • We also offer toluene for laboratory use

  About toluene

  Formerly called toluol, toluene is a colourless solution with a smell like paint thinners. From a chemical point of view, it’s a benzene derivative with a single substitution of a single methyl group (-CH3) attached to a benzene ring. As such, its IUPAC name is methylbenzene and it’s classed as an aromatic hydrocarbon.

  How is toluene produced?

  Toluene is produced during synthesis of gasoline via a catalytic reformer; or in the production of raw material coke (made from coal). The final step involves a separation done by solvent extraction or distillation, which can take place at various points to produce benzene, toluene and xylene isomers. In the lab, as a student demonstration, toluene can be synthesised by mixing methyl chloride and benzene, in the present of aluminium chloride or other Lewis acid.

  Toxicology: is toluene dangerous?

  If inhaled, toluene can cause tiredness and weakness, and other symptoms similar to consuming excess alcohol, including confusion, memory loss and nausea. These symptoms disappear when exposure stops. This compound is much less toxic than benzene, and has largely replaced it whenever possible. Currently, there is no evidence to suggest toluene is carcinogenic.

  Open an account with us

  If you’re a regular customer, why not open an account with us? This would help your orders get processed faster and smoother. If you wish to do so, simply contact our sales team and a member of staff will be glad to help. We also offer free technical advice.