13dimethylbenzene

13dimethylbenzene is typically a reference to 1,3-dimethylbenzene, known in common usage as meta-xylene. This compound is one of the three dimethylbenzene isomers, with two methyl substituents on the benzene ring at positions 1 and 3. Its chemical formula is C8H10.

Meta-xylene is a colorless to pale yellow, flammable liquid at room temperature. It is nonpolar and has properties similar to other xylene isomers, including a boiling point around 139 °C and a density near 0.87 g/mL. It is usually encountered as part of the C8 aromatic hydrocarbon mixtures produced during petroleum refining and related petrochemical processing.

Industrial production and processing: Meta-xylene is obtained from catalytic reforming and other processing of naphtha and light hydrocarbon streams. It is separated from isomeric xylenes by distillation and adsorption techniques. Because the three xylene isomers have different physical properties, careful separation is required to obtain a desired isomer, such as meta-xylene from mixed xylene streams.

Applications: Meta-xylene serves primarily as an industrial intermediate. It is used as a solvent in various coating and printing formulations and functions as a chemical feedstock for downstream specialty products. It can also undergo further processing to yield other chemicals used in plastics, resins, and pigments.

Safety and handling: Xylene derivatives, including meta-xylene, are flammable and can cause irritation to eyes, skin, and the respiratory tract. Prolonged exposure may affect the central nervous system. Appropriate ventilation, leak controls, and personal protective equipment are recommended when handling this material.

Note: The name “13dimethylbenzene” appears to be a typographical form of 1,3-dimethylbenzene (meta-xylene).