Properties of Benzene

Benzene is a clear, colorless to light yellow aromatic hydrocarbon used as a chemical intermediate, solvent and gasoline component.

Identification

• Benzene has a molecular formula of C6H6 and a molecular weight of 78.11.

Physical Properties

• Benzene's solubility in water is 1750 mg/L at 25 degrees C. It readily mixes with ethanol, ethyl ether, acetone and chloroform. Its melting point is 5.5 deg C and the boiling point is 80.1 degrees C. It has a flash point of -11 degrees C.

NFPA Ratings

• Based on the National Fire Protection Association rating system, the Health Hazard is 2 (intense or continued exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or possible residual injury), the Flammability Hazard is 3 (produces flammable, hazardous atmospheres with air under almost all ambient conditions), and the Instability Hazard is a 0 (normally stable).

Reactivity and Stability

• Benzene is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, many fluorides, many perchlorates and nitric acid.

Carcinogenicity

• Benzene is identified as a human carcinogen by many agencies, including the U.S. EPA, the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the U.S. National Toxicology Program, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, and the German MAK Commission.