Chemical laboratory

Cyclohexanone

High-Purity Solvent for Resins and Chemical Synthesis

  • CAS 108-94-1
  • Formula C₆H₁₀O
  • Flash Pt 44 °C
  • Density 0.9478 g/cm³
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Physical & Chemical Properties

Property Value Unit
Boiling point 155.65 °C °C
Flash point 44 °C °C
Density 0.9478 g/cm³ g/cm³
Solubility Slightly soluble in water (1.5 g/100 mL at 20°C) -
Ph 7 -
Molecular weight 98.15 g/mol g/mol
Melting point -47 °C °C
Vapor pressure 4.5 mmHg at 20°C mmHg
Autoignition temp 420 °C -
Appearance Clear, colorless to slightly yellow liquid -
Odor Acetone-like odor -
Vapor density 3.4 (air = 1) g/cm³

Overview

Cyclohexanone (CAS 108-94-1) is a clear, colorless to slightly yellow liquid ketone with the molecular formula C₆H₁₀O. This versatile organic solvent features an acetone-like odor and serves as a critical intermediate in chemical manufacturing processes. With its excellent solvating properties and moderate boiling point of 155.65°C, cyclohexanone has established itself as an essential component in industrial applications ranging from polymer production to specialty chemical synthesis.

Key Applications

Cyclohexanone plays a vital role in multiple industrial sectors. As a precursor to caprolactam, it enables the production of nylon 6, one of the most widely used synthetic polymers in textiles and engineering plastics. The chemical serves as an effective solvent for resins and lacquers, providing excellent dissolution properties for coating formulations. In paint and varnish remover formulations, cyclohexanone's solvating power helps break down aged coatings efficiently. Additionally, it functions as a key intermediate in adipic acid production, supporting the manufacture of nylon 6,6 and other polyamides used in automotive and industrial applications.

Safety & Handling

Cyclohexanone requires careful handling due to its flammable nature, with a flash point of 44°C and autoignition temperature of 420°C. Personnel should use appropriate personal protective equipment including chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing when handling this material. Adequate ventilation is essential to prevent vapor accumulation, as cyclohexanone has a vapor density of 3.4 times that of air. Work areas should be equipped with proper exhaust systems, and ignition sources must be eliminated from storage and handling areas. Emergency eyewash stations and safety showers should be readily accessible in work areas.

Storage & Shelf Life

Store cyclohexanone in tightly sealed containers made of compatible materials such as stainless steel or lined steel drums. Maintain storage temperatures below 40°C and away from heat sources, sparks, and open flames. The chemical should be kept in a well-ventilated area, preferably in a dedicated flammable liquid storage cabinet or warehouse. Avoid contact with strong oxidizing agents, strong bases, and reducing agents to prevent hazardous reactions. When stored properly in original containers, cyclohexanone maintains its quality and specifications for extended periods.

Why Alliance Chemical

Alliance Chemical delivers Cyclohexanone with same-day shipping from our Taylor, Texas facility, ensuring rapid delivery across the region. We offer flexible shipping options including UPS for smaller quantities, LTL for standard orders, and FTL for bulk requirements. Every shipment includes comprehensive Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and Certificates of Analysis (COA) to support your quality assurance and regulatory compliance needs. Our technical support team provides expert guidance on handling, storage, and application-specific questions to ensure successful integration into your processes.

Shipping & Availability

Parcel Shipping

UPS Ground supports pints, quarts, and most 1-gallon packages nationwide.

LTL Freight

5-gallon pails, drums, and totes move via LTL carriers such as ABF Freight, SEFL, Saia, and XPO.

Full Truckload

FTL available for palletized bulk orders. Competitive freight rates.

Local Pickup

Same-day pickup at our Taylor, TX warehouse for Texas customers.

SDS, COA, and TDS available for every product • Same-day shipping on orders before 1 PM CT

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cyclohexanone (CAS 108-94-1) and what is it used for?
Cyclohexanone (C6H10O, CAS 108-94-1) is a colorless ketone solvent with a characteristic odor used as an industrial solvent and chemical intermediate. It is commonly used in the manufacture of nylon intermediates (e.g., caprolactam and adipic acid), coatings, adhesives, resins, and as a reagent/solvent in laboratory organic synthesis.
How should cyclohexanone be stored and what is its typical shelf life?
Store cyclohexanone in tightly closed, labeled containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks and oxidizing agents; keep containers grounded to prevent static buildup. Shelf life depends on storage conditions and packaging but is typically 1–2 years—follow the supplier expiration date and batch-specific Certificate of Analysis for exact guidance.
What safety precautions should I take when handling cyclohexanone?
Handle cyclohexanone as a flammable, irritant chemical: use explosion-proof ventilation, wear chemical-resistant gloves, goggles and suitable protective clothing, and avoid breathing vapors. Prevent ignition sources, use grounding/bonding during transfers, and consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for emergency and first-aid measures.
How do different concentrations and purities of cyclohexanone affect its use?
Cyclohexanone is supplied in various purities (technical, reagent/ACS, and anhydrous); higher-purity or anhydrous grades are required for sensitive syntheses, while technical grades are suitable for many bulk solvent applications. Water content and trace impurities can affect reaction outcomes, polymer properties and drying requirements, so choose grade based on end-use and specify required purity on orders.
What documentation is available for cyclohexanone shipments?
Suppliers typically provide a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), Certificate of Analysis (COA) with batch-specific purity and impurity data, and a Technical Data Sheet (TDS); other documents such as transport declarations, RoHS/REACH statements, and custom regulatory paperwork can be supplied on request. Always review the SDS before handling and keep the COA for quality control records.
How is cyclohexanone classified for shipping and what packaging options are common?
Cyclohexanone is classified as a flammable liquid (transport: UN 1193, Class 3) and must be shipped following local and international hazardous goods regulations. Common packaging includes steel drums, intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), and sealed bottles for lab quantities, with specialty packaging available for temperature- or moisture-sensitive grades.
What materials is cyclohexanone compatible with and which should be avoided?
Cyclohexanone is generally compatible with stainless steel, carbon steel and glass, and with fluoropolymers like PTFE; it can attack some elastomers and certain plastics, so test gaskets, seals and hoses for long-term contact. Avoid storing or using it near strong oxidizers and strong acids, and consult compatibility charts for specific materials.
What are the key technical specifications I should check for cyclohexanone?
Key specs include CAS number (108-94-1), molecular formula (C6H10O), stated purity (%), water content (ppm or %), appearance (typically a colorless liquid), and lot-specific COA values for key impurities; suppliers may also provide boiling point, density and refractive index on the TDS. Confirm required analytical limits and acceptance criteria before purchase.
Which industries commonly use cyclohexanone and what are typical applications?
Cyclohexanone is used across chemicals, plastics and coatings industries as a solvent and intermediate—notably in nylon production (caprolactam and adipic acid), paints and coatings, adhesives, polymer and resin processing, and agrochemical or dye intermediates. Laboratories and R&D use it as a reagent and process solvent in organic synthesis and formulation testing.
How can I purchase cyclohexanone and what should I know about availability and lead times?
Cyclohexanone is available from chemical distributors and manufacturers in laboratory to bulk quantities, with options for different purity grades and packaging; lead times vary by volume, grade and current demand, so request a quote with desired grade, quantity and delivery location. For regulated uses, confirm regulatory documentation, storage capability and any local import/export requirements before placing large orders.

Documentation & Downloads

Safety Data Sheet
SDS / MSDS
Request COA
Certificate of Analysis
Technical Data Sheet (TDS)
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