what is hexane used for

what is hexane used for

1 year ago 45
Nature

Hexane is an organic compound that is widely used in various industries. Here are some of the uses of hexane:

  • Extracting edible oils: Hexane is used as a solvent to extract edible oils from seeds and vegetables such as soybeans, peanuts, and corn.

  • Cleaning agent: Hexane is used as a cleaning agent (degreaser) in various industries such as printing, textile, furniture, and shoemaking.

  • Solvent: Hexane is used as a solvent for glues (rubber cement, adhesives), varnishes, and inks.

  • Low-temperature thermometer: Hexane is used as the liquid in low-temperature thermometers.

  • Laboratory use: Pure hexane is used in laboratories for various purposes such as extracting oil and grease contaminants from water and soil for analysis.

  • Consumer products: Hexane is present in several consumer products such as gasoline, quick-drying glues used in various hobbies, and rubber cement.

It is important to note that hexane is a neurotoxin and can cause long-lasting and even permanent nerve damage in feet, legs, hands, and arms. Therefore, it should be handled with extreme caution, and safer, effective substitutes to hexane are available now.

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