Hexane is an organic compound that is widely used in various industries. Here are some of the uses of hexane:
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Extracting edible oils: Hexane is used as a solvent to extract edible oils from seeds and vegetables such as soybeans, peanuts, and corn.
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Cleaning agent: Hexane is used as a cleaning agent (degreaser) in various industries such as printing, textile, furniture, and shoemaking.
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Solvent: Hexane is used as a solvent for glues (rubber cement, adhesives), varnishes, and inks.
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Low-temperature thermometer: Hexane is used as the liquid in low-temperature thermometers.
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Laboratory use: Pure hexane is used in laboratories for various purposes such as extracting oil and grease contaminants from water and soil for analysis.
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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.