nhexaani

n-hexaani, or n-hexane in English, is a straight-chain alkane with the chemical formula C6H14. It is a colorless, highly flammable liquid used primarily as a solvent in industry. It is a nonpolar compound and is only sparingly soluble in water.

Physically, n-hexane has a boiling point around 68.7°C and a density near 0.659 g/mL at 20°C. It is volatile and readily evaporates from surfaces. Its low water solubility and compatibility with many organic solvents make it useful for cleaning, degreasing, and extracting nonpolar substances. It is produced during the refining of crude oil and natural gas processing and occurs in some petroleum-derived products and solvents.

In industry, n-hexane is widely employed as a solvent for metals cleaning, rubber and textile processing, adhesive and paint manufacture, and the extraction of edible oils from seeds and other plant materials. In laboratories, it is used for chromatography and as a nonpolar solvent for certain reactions and sample preparations.

Exposure to n-hexane can pose health risks. Inhalation or dermal contact may cause dizziness, drowsiness, and irritation. Prolonged or high-level exposure can lead to neurotoxic effects, including peripheral neuropathy, a condition characterized by numbness or weakness in the extremities. The neurotoxicity is associated with metabolic pathways that produce reactive metabolites. It is also a flammable chemical, requiring proper ventilation and protection from ignition sources during handling.

Environmentally, n-hexane is a volatile organic compound that tends to evaporate and disperse in air. It can contribute to air pollution and may affect aquatic life at high concentrations. Many countries regulate occupational exposure limits and encourage substitution with safer solvents where feasible.