Cyclohexanone is an organic compound classified as a cyclic ketone with the chemical formula CHO. It appears as a colorless to pale yellow oily liquid with a characteristic sweet, acetone-like odor.
It is primarily produced by the oxidation of cyclohexane or by the dehydrogenation of cyclohexanol. Cyclohexanone is an important industrial intermediate, especially in the production of nylon precursors.
Chemically, it features a six-membered carbon ring with a ketone functional group (C=O), making it moderately polar and reactive in various organic synthesis reactions.
2. Key Specifications
| Property |
Value |
| Chemical Name |
Cyclohexanone |
| Molecular Formula |
CHO |
| Molecular Weight |
98.15 g/mol |
| CAS Number |
108-94-1 |
| Appearance |
Colorless liquid |
| Odor |
Sweet, acetone-like |
| Boiling Point |
155156C |
| Melting Point |
-47C |
| Density |
0.947 g/cm |
| Flash Point |
44C |
| Solubility |
Slightly soluble in water; miscible with most organic solvents |
| Purity (Industrial) |
99% min (typical) |
3. Applications
A. Chemical Industry
- Intermediate for Adipic Acid and Caprolactam
- Essential in Nylon 6 and Nylon 6,6 production
B. Solvent Applications
- Used in:
- Paints and coatings
- Varnishes
- Resins
- Lacquers
- Effective solvent for:
- Cellulose acetate
- Nitrocellulose
C. Pharmaceutical Industry
- Intermediate in drug synthesis
- Used in preparation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs)
D. Rubber & Plastics
- Processing solvent
- Chemical intermediate for synthetic rubbers
E. Agrochemicals
- Used in pesticide and herbicide formulations
4. Functions
- Solvent Function: Dissolves resins, polymers, and oils efficiently
- Intermediate Function: Key building block for large-scale industrial chemicals
- Reaction Medium: Provides stable environment for chemical reactions
- Chemical Precursor: Used in synthesis of high-value compounds
5. Benefits
Industrial Benefits
- Highly versatile chemical intermediate
- Essential for nylon manufacturing (textiles, engineering plastics)
- Consistent chemical reactivity
Performance Benefits
- Good solvency power
- Moderate evaporation rate
- Stable under normal conditions
Economic Benefits
- Cost-effective in bulk production
- Widely available globally
Operational Benefits
- Easy handling and storage
- Compatible with many industrial processes
6. Safety & Handling (Important)
- Flammable liquid handle away from ignition sources
- May cause irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory system
- Use PPE (gloves, goggles, ventilation)
- Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area
7. Packaging & Storage
- Common packaging:
- Storage conditions:
- Away from heat and oxidizing agents
- Airtight containers recommended