O-Xylene, 95-47-6 / Hazardous Substance Ecological Fact Sheet

Abstract

Q-Xylene is one of three isomers of commercial xylene. It is a flammable, colorless liquid of moderate solubility in water. Xylene is used as a solvent, as a raw material for the production of organic chemicals used in the manufacture of polyester fibers, and in the manufacture of dyes. Other uses are in sterilizing catgut and in microscopy. Xylene may enter the aquatic environment via industrial effluents, municipal treatment plant discharges, or spills. Since comparative data on toxicity of the several forms of xylene to aquatic life are limited and inconclusive, all forms are considered equal for the purpose of the following ecological effect statments.