Learn More About Toluene
Toluene (also referred to as methylbenzene or phenylmethane) is a clear water-insoluble liquid with the odor of paint thinner. It is a hydrocarbon that is widely used as an industrial feedstock and as a solvent. Toluene is listed as a Table II precursor under the United Nations Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances.
Scientific attributes
Toluene reacts as a normal aromatic hydrocarbon towards electrophilic aromatic substitution. The methyl group makes it around 25 times more reactive than benzene in such reactions. It undergoes smooth sulfonation to give p-toluenesulfonic acid, and chlorination by Cl2 in the presence of FeCl3 to give ortho and para isomers of chlorotoluene. It undergoes nitration to give ortho and para nitrotoluene isomers, but if heated, it can give dinitrotoluene and ultimately the explosive trinitrotoluene (TNT).
With other reagents, the methyl side chain in toluene may react, undergoing oxidation. Potassium permanganate leads to benzoic acid, whereas chromyl chloride leads to benzaldehyde. Halogenation can be performed under free radical conditions, for example NBS leads gives benzyl bromide
Hydrogenation of toluene to methylcyclohexane requires a high pressure of hydrogen to go to completion, because of the stability of the aromatic system.
Applicatons
Toluene is used as an octane booster in gasoline, as a solvent in paints, paint thinners, chemical reactions, rubber, printing, adhesives, lacquers, leather tanning, disinfectants, and to produce phenol and TNT. It is also used as a raw material for toluene diisocyanate, which is used in the manufacture of polyurethane foams.
Warnings
Breathing of toluene fumes can be intoxicating, but in higher doses, it can induce nausea. Chronic or frequent inhalation of toluene can lead to permanent brain damage. Lower levels of exposure can cause injury to the teeth.
see also:
Uses & Sources
Toluene Lawsuit Law Firm: Toluene Major Uses & SourcesToluene Uses and Sources - Free Lawsuit Evaluation
Danger In Humans
Toluene Lawsuit Law Firm: Toluene Danger In HumansToluene Danger In Humans - Free Lawsuit Evaluation by Toluene Law Firm
News & Warnings
Toluene Lawsuit - FREE Resource Center: Methylbenzene, PhenylmethaneToluene Lawsuit: Toluene Methylbenzene, Phenylmethane News & Warnings
