Mesitylene

Product Introduction

Mesitylene, also commonly known as 1,3,5-Trimethylbenzene or 1,3,5-TMB (CAS 108-67-8), is an aromatic hydrocarbon characterized by three methyl groups symmetrically attached to a benzene ring. It appears as a clear, colorless liquid with a distinctive aromatic odor. Mesitylene (CAS 108-67-8) is highly valued in industrial chemistry for its stable structure and excellent solvent properties. It serves as a critical building block for the synthesis of various high-value chemicals, including antioxidants, plastics, and dyes. Because of its high boiling point and low volatility compared to lighter aromatics, it is frequently used as a specialized solvent and heat-transfer medium in complex manufacturing processes.

Applications

High-Performance Industrial Solvent This product is primarily used as a solvent in the production of high-grade paints, coatings, and specialized printing inks where a slow evaporation rate and strong solvency are required.

Intermediate for Antioxidants and Resins It is a vital precursor in the synthesis of trimesic acid and various antioxidants (such as AO-330) used to stabilize plastics, rubbers, and high-performance polymers against thermal degradation.

Dye and Pigment Intermediate In the colorant industry, Mesitylene is utilized as a raw material for the production of specialized dyes and pigment intermediates, providing excellent color stability and solubility.

Pharmaceutical and Fine Chemical Synthesis It serves as a versatile starting material and solvent in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and other fine chemicals that require an electron-rich aromatic environment.

Research and Calibration Agent Due to its well-defined chemical structure, it is used as a reference standard in analytical chemistry (NMR and GC) and as a high-octane additive in specialized fuel research.

Packaging

Standard industrial packaging options for Mesitylene include:

• 170kg tight-head steel drums (Standard export packaging).

• 850kg IBC tanks for streamlined bulk handling in manufacturing plants.

• ISO Tanks for large-volume international maritime transport (approx. 18-20 MT).

• Small-volume sample bottles available for laboratory and research evaluation.

Storage

Mesitylene is a flammable liquid and must be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated warehouse designed for flammable materials. Keep the containers tightly sealed when not in use. Store away from heat, sparks, open flames, and direct sunlight. It should be kept separate from strong oxidizing agents to prevent hazardous chemical reactions. Ensure the storage area has adequate spill containment and grounding for static discharge during transfer.

Related and Similar Products

1. Pseudocumene (1,2,4-Trimethylbenzene) – CAS 95-63-6

2. Hemimellitene (1,2,3-Trimethylbenzene) – CAS 526-73-8

3. p-Cymene – CAS 99-87-6

4. Cumene (Isopropylbenzene) – CAS 98-82-8

5. Xylene (Mixed isomers) – CAS 1330-20-7

6. Toluene – CAS 108-88-3

7. Trimesic Acid – CAS 554-95-0

8. Durene (1,2,4,5-Tetramethylbenzene) – CAS 95-93-2

9. Ethylbenzene – CAS 100-41-4

10. Diethylbenzene – CAS 25340-17-4

FAQ

Industrial Solvent and Intermediate Applications

• Q1: Why is Mesitylene preferred over Xylene for certain industrial coatings? A1: Mesitylene has a higher boiling point and a lower evaporation rate, which allows for better flow and leveling in specialized coatings, resulting in a smoother finish.

• Q2: Can it be used in high-temperature reactions? A2: Yes, its boiling point of 164.7°C makes it suitable as a high-temperature solvent for organic synthesis where lower-boiling solvents like toluene would require pressurized systems.

• Q3: How does the purity of Mesitylene affect the production of antioxidants? A3: High purity (≥ 99.0%) is essential to prevent side reactions during the alkylation or oxidation processes used to create plastic stabilizers and antioxidants.

Safety and Logistics

• Q1: What is the hazard classification for shipping Mesitylene? A1: It is classified as a Flammable Liquid (UN 2325, Class 3, PG III) and must be handled and documented according to international maritime (IMDG) or air (IATA) regulations.

• Q2: Does Chemfine provide custom packaging for smaller trial batches? A2: While our standard MOQ is one drum, we can discuss specialized small-volume packaging for pilot-scale testing or R&D projects.

• Q3: Is the product sensitive to moisture during storage? A3: It is not highly sensitive to moisture, but storing it in a dry environment and keeping it tightly sealed prevents the absorption of atmospheric water, ensuring it meets the ≤ 0.05% water specification.