Cyclohexanol
Cyclohexanol (C6H11OH, CAS 108-93-0) is a secondary alicyclic alcohol made up of a cyclohexane ring carrying one hydroxyl group. At room temperature it is a colourless, viscous liquid or low-melting, hygroscopic solid with a camphor-like odour. It is produced industrially on a large scale, chiefly as an intermediate for cyclohexanone, adipic acid and caprolactam, which are precursors to nylon.
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Cyclohexanol
We manufacture and supply Cyclohexanol. See specifications, pack sizes and pricing, or ask us for a quote.
What are the key properties of cyclohexanol?
Cyclohexanol has a molar mass of about 100.16 g/mol and melts close to room temperature (around 25 °C), so supplied material may arrive as a solid, a liquid or a slush. It boils at roughly 161 °C, is moderately soluble in water and mixes with most common organic solvents. It is a combustible liquid. Its EC number is 203-630-6.
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How is cyclohexanol produced and used?
Industrial production relies mainly on two routes: catalytic hydrogenation of phenol, and air oxidation of cyclohexane. The oxidation route gives a mixture of cyclohexanol and cyclohexanone known as "KA oil" (ketone–alcohol oil). Most cyclohexanol is then converted to cyclohexanone or oxidised to adipic acid, the key feedstocks for nylon 6 (via caprolactam) and nylon 6,6. Smaller volumes go into plasticisers and solvent applications. In teaching and research laboratories it is a standard substrate for acid-catalysed dehydration to cyclohexene.
What should buyers check for safety and compliance?
Under GHS/CLP, cyclohexanol is classified as harmful if swallowed or inhaled, a skin irritant and a possible respiratory irritant. Always consult the supplier's current SDS for the exact hazard statements. It is registered under EU REACH and listed on the US TSCA inventory. When procuring, check the CoA for:
- assay (typically determined by GC)
- water content
- cyclohexanone and other impurities
- physical state on delivery
Because the material may solidify, gentle warming may be needed before it can be dispensed.
Related concepts
Cyclohexanone, cyclohexane, phenol, adipic acid, caprolactam, cyclohexene, KA oil, secondary alcohols, nylon 6 and nylon 6,6.
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