Xylene (dimethylbenzene, C8H10, CAS 1330-20-7) is a mixture of ortho-, meta- and para-xylene and ethylbenzene. It is a clear, flammable aromatic solvent with a specific gravity of about 0.86, a boiling point of 279°F to 291°F (137°C to 144°C) and a flash point near 81°F (27°C). Xylene is used in paints, coatings, pesticide formulations, cleaners and degreasers, and para-xylene is the feedstock for PET plastic. Use the compatibility ratings to choose the right tank resin, fittings and gaskets.
Nylon is the most economical tank material for Xylene, rated Excellent. PVDF (Kynar®) and polypropylene are also rated Good or better. Avoid HDPE tanks; HDPE, PVC and CPVC fittings; Buna-N and EPDM gaskets.
How Xylene works with the plastics used to make our storage tanks.
| Material | Rating |
|---|---|
| HDPE | |
| Polypropylene | |
| Nylon | |
| PVDF (Kynar®) |
How Xylene works with the plastics used for tank fittings.
| Material | Rating |
|---|---|
| HDPE | |
| PVC | |
| CPVC | |
| Polypropylene | |
| PVDF |
How Xylene works with gasket and O-ring materials.
| Material | Rating |
|---|---|
| Buna-N | |
| EPDM | |
| Viton® |
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