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Overview Hexylene glycol (also known as HGL, 2-methyl pentane-2,4-diol, pinakon and Diolane) is a clear, colourless liquid with a characteristic odor. It is fully miscible in water and has the chemical formula C6H14O2. Hexylene glycol is a compound that appears in a large number of products that are used commercially and industrially. Production, Storage and Distribution Hexylene glycol is formed from the achiral reagents hydrogen and diacetone alcohol. It is stored in bulk storage or stainless steel drums and is transported by tank truck. It is classed as non-hazardous for air, sea, and road freight but is classed as an irritant. It has a specific gravity of 0.925 and a flash point of 93 °C (closed cup). This implies it is not very flammable, so special precautions are not required when handling this chemical as it relates to flammability. While it is not flammable, hexylene glycol is considered an irritant and can cause damage to the body if exposure is not limited. Moreover, exposure to the eyes and skin can cause irritation, but absorption through the skin has shown to be non-toxic. This means it will be uncomfortable, but not very harmful. If swallowed, this chemical is slightly toxic, so consult a doctor immediately if oral ingestion takes place. Lastly, repeated and prolonged exposure can cause damage to the central nervous system (CNS), so take care to not exposure yourself on a regular basis to this chemical without protective gear. Uses The single largest user of hexylene glycol is the industrial coatings industry which uses approximately 45% of the HGL produced world-wide. It is a component in lacquers and varnishes, and is a solvent plasticiser in surface coatings. It is also a component in both oil and water- based paints, and in paint strippers. Hexylene glycol is also used as a chemical intermediate, which accounts for approximately 20% of its consumption, and another 10% is used on oil and natural-gas fields, where it is both a down hole lubricant, and a grinding and extraction aid. It is also employed as an antifreeze, as well as a coupling agent for hydraulic fluids. It is a moisturising and setting agent in the manufacturing of textiles and can also be found in the cosmetics industry, where it is a component of fragrances. Moreover, it is used in bath, hair, and soap preparations. It also has a role as a wetting agent in pesticide formulations and is a solvent in the preparation of dyes. Solventis Ltd is a stockist and bulk distributor of petrochemical solvents such as Hexylene Glycol
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