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Hydrocarbons
Toluene, Xylene, n-Heptane & Naphtha — ACS to technical
8 products
About Hydrocarbons
Buy toluene, xylene, hexane, heptane, VM&P naphtha, and specialty hydrocarbon solvents from Alliance Chemical in ACS Reagent and Technical grades. Available in quarts through 55-gallon drums.
Products In This Collection
This collection includes toluene ACS Grade (CAS 108-88-3, 99.0–100.5% assay), xylene ACS Reagent Grade (CAS 1330-20-7), n-heptane 99% ACS (CAS 142-82-5), hexane Technical Grade (CAS 110-54-3, >99%), and VM&P naphtha Technical Grade (CAS 64742-89-8, boiling range 90–150°C).
Common Applications
Toluene is used in paint, ink, and coating formulations, resin dissolution, and chemical synthesis. Xylene serves as a histology clearing agent, paint solvent, and industrial degreaser. Hexane is the standard extraction solvent for oilseed processing and botanical extraction. Heptane provides a non-polar solvent for chromatography. VM&P naphtha is used as a fast-evaporating paint thinner and degreaser.
Why Buy From Alliance Chemical
All hydrocarbon solvents include Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and Certificates of Analysis (COA). Alliance Chemical provides same-day shipping with DOT-compliant hazmat packaging and no minimum order.
Related: See the Solvents and Other Solvents collections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between n-Heptane 99% and Technical Grade Heptane?
n-Heptane 99% (often ACS or High Purity) contains a minimum of 99% of the straight-chain heptane isomer, making it ideal for precision laboratory work and botanical extractions where residue-free results are critical. Technical grade heptane is a blend of heptane isomers and other hydrocarbons that typically falls in the 95-98% purity range, suitable for industrial degreasing and adhesive thinning. The higher isomer purity of the 99% grade ensures more predictable boiling points and solvency behavior in sensitive chemical processes.
Is Toluene or Xylene a better solvent for oil-based coatings?
The choice depends on the required evaporation rate; Toluene (CAS 108-88-3) evaporates significantly faster than Xylene (CAS 1330-20-7), making it better for fast-drying spray applications. Xylene is preferred for brush-on coatings and heavy-duty degreasing because its slower evaporation allows for more 'open time' and better leveling of the finish. Both are potent aromatic hydrocarbons, but Xylene's higher boiling point (approx. 138°C) provides a longer working window for removing stubborn resins.
What are the OSHA exposure limits for Toluene and Xylene?
Under OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1000 Table Z-2, Toluene has a Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 200 ppm (8-hour TWA) with a ceiling concentration of 300 ppm. Xylene is regulated under Table Z-1 with a PEL of 100 ppm (435 mg/m³). Employers are required to implement engineering controls, such as local exhaust ventilation, and provide appropriate respiratory protection if monitoring reveals concentrations exceeding these legal thresholds.
How should hydrocarbon solvents be stored according to NFPA 30?
NFPA 30 classifies most hydrocarbons in this collection as Class IB Flammable Liquids (flash points below 73°F and boiling points at or above 100°F). They must be stored in UL-listed or FM-approved flammable liquid storage cabinets when quantities exceed localized limits. Storage areas must be equipped with grounding and bonding systems to prevent static discharge during transfer, and the environment must be kept cool and away from incompatible oxidizers like hydrogen peroxide or nitric acid.
What is the flash point of VM&P Naphtha and why does it matter?
VM&P Naphtha typically has a flash point of approximately 50°F (10°C), classifying it as a highly flammable liquid. The flash point is the lowest temperature at which the liquid produces enough vapor to form an ignitable mixture in air; because this is well below standard room temperature, VM&P Naphtha presents a constant fire risk. Users must eliminate all ignition sources, use non-sparking tools, and ensure proper ventilation to prevent the accumulation of vapors in low-lying areas.
Can I use Hexane Technical Grade for essential oil extraction?
While Technical Grade Hexane is a powerful solvent, it may contain trace impurities or higher levels of branched isomers that could affect the flavor, aroma, or safety profile of the final extract. For high-end botanical or essential oil extraction, ACS Reagent Grade or 99% n-Hexane is recommended to ensure minimal solvent residue (Non-Volatile Residue, NVR) and high-purity yield. Always verify that your process equipment is compatible with flammable hydrocarbons and meets local fire codes for extraction facilities.
How do I dispose of spent hydrocarbon solvents like Toluene and Xylene?
Waste hydrocarbon solvents are generally classified as hazardous waste under EPA RCRA regulations due to the characteristic of ignitability (D001). Additionally, Toluene (U220) and Xylene (U239) are listed wastes that must be managed according to 40 CFR Part 262 standards. Spent solvents should be collected in labeled, closed containers and hauled by a certified hazardous waste contractor for fuel blending or incineration; never pour these chemicals down the drain or into the environment.
What DOT regulations apply to shipping 55-gallon drums of Hexane?
Hexane is shipped as UN1208, Hexanes, 3, PG II under DOT 49 CFR Part 172. When shipping in 55-gallon drums, the containers must be UN-rated (e.g., 1A1 steel drums), properly labeled with Flammable Liquid Class 3 placards, and accompanied by a hazardous materials shipping manifest. Alliance Chemical ensures all bulk shipments comply with these federal safety standards, including proper palletization and securing of the load to prevent transit incidents.
Guides & Resources
The Ultimate Guide to Industrial Solvents
Read article →
Hexane Botanical Oil Extraction: Laboratory Guide for Essential Oils
Read article →
What Is VM&P Naphtha? The Complete Guide to Uses, Safety & Where to Buy
Read article →
The Complete Guide to Xylene: Properties, Uses, Safety & How It Compares
Read article →
Toluene as Paint Thinner: Safe Use Guide
Read article →
The Professional's Guide to Industrial Degreasing & Surface Preparation
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