CAS Number: 108-38-3. A clear liquid with a sweet odor. One of
the three isomers of xylene. Used as a solvent, as an
intermediate for dyes & organic synthesis, in insecticides and
aviation fuel. Chemical formula = C8H10. Molecular weight =
106.17 g/mol.
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Commercial or mixed xylene usually contains about 40-65% m-xylene
and up to 20% each of o-xylene and p-xylene and ethylbenzene.
Xylenes are released into the atmosphere as fugitive emissions
from industrial sources, from auto exhaust, and through
volatilization from their use as solvents. Acute (short-term)
inhalation exposure to mixed xylenes in humans results in
irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, gastrointestinal
effects, eye irritation, and neurological effects. Chronic
(long-term) inhalation exposure of humans to mixed xylenes
results primarily in central nervous system (CNS) effects, such
as headache, dizziness, fatigue, tremors, and incoordination;
respiratory, cardiovascular, and kidney effects have also been
reported. EPA has classified mixed xylenes as a Group D, not
classifiable as to human carcinogenicity.