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Cyclohexanone

Cyclohexanone is a versatile solvent used in manufacturing adhesives, coatings, and chemical intermediates across East Africa.

Cyclohexanone functions primarily as an effective solvent and chemical intermediate in industrial processes, prized for its moderate polarity and ability to dissolve a wide range of resins and polymers.

Packaging

25kg drum, 200L drum

Supply Region

Kenya, East Africa

Supplier

Zenco Systems Ltd

What is Cyclohexanone?

Cyclohexanone functions primarily as an effective solvent and chemical intermediate in industrial processes, prized for its moderate polarity and ability to dissolve a wide range of resins and polymers. It behaves as a key player in adhesives, coatings, and nylon precursor production, where its solvency ensures proper formulation and consistent product quality. This liquid ketone’s role extends into pharmaceutical and agrochemical manufacturing, facilitating the synthesis of essential intermediates that demand a reliable chemical environment.

Identified chemically as C6H10O with CAS number 108-94-1, Cyclohexanone is a colorless, clear liquid with a characteristic mild odor. Its stability under normal storage conditions ensures minimal degradation, a critical feature for industries relying on uninterrupted supply chains. Manufacturers and formulators across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda depend on Cyclohexanone for its unique physicochemical properties that target performance and process efficiency.

As a supplier deeply experienced in the East African market, Zenco Systems Ltd provides Cyclohexanone with the logistical support and technical expertise necessary to serve industrial buyers confidently. In regions where access to consistent quality chemicals can impact production outcomes, our role goes beyond supply: we ensure customers receive dependable material with specifications aligned to their precise industrial needs.

Cyclohexanone: Detailed Product Overview

Cyclohexanone is a cyclic ketone characterized by a six-membered carbon ring bonded to a ketone functional group. This molecular structure imparts a balance of polarity and hydrophobicity, allowing it to interact effectively with various organic compounds, particularly polymers and resins. Its chemical formula, C6H10O, and CAS number 108-94-1, confirm its identity and purity standards in industrial use.

In practical application, Cyclohexanone operates as a solvent capable of dissolving substances like cellulose acetate, nitrocellulose, and certain polyesters, which are common in coatings and adhesives. The ketone group participates in dipole interactions with polar groups in polymers, enhancing solubility without overly aggressive reactivity that could decompose sensitive substrates. This balance makes it indispensable in formulations requiring both solvency and stability.

Beyond just a solvent, Cyclohexanone is a critical precursor in the synthesis of intermediates like caprolactam, which is the monomer for nylon-6 production. The conversion pathways exploit the ketone’s chemical reactivity, such as oxidation and cyclization, to build more complex molecules essential for nylon fibers and related polymers.

Its moderate boiling point (around 155°C) and relatively low vapor pressure allow safe handling at standard industrial temperatures with proper precautions. Chemically stable when stored in appropriate conditions, Cyclohexanone resists polymerization and degradation, preserving its functional qualities. However, its flammable nature demands careful storage away from ignition sources. Supply chains in East Africa utilize Cyclohexanone to serve a variety of sectors from coatings and pharmaceuticals to agrochemicals, where solvent purity and supply reliability dictate overall production success.

Zenco Systems Ltd’s offering in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and surrounding countries ensures that technical support accompanies every shipment—helping formulators and industrial buyers optimize usage rates and application methods based on real operational contexts.

Applications and Uses of Cyclohexanone

Solvent for Adhesives and Coatings

Cyclohexanone dissolves numerous resin systems used in adhesive and coating formulations, including nitrocellulose and certain polyesters. Its solvent power ensures consistent viscosity and drying times, enabling better spreadability and adhesion performance. Typical industrial usage rates depend on formulation but usually range from 5-20% by weight, where Cyclohexanone balances fast evaporation with substrate compatibility.

Precursor in Nylon Production

Cyclohexanone is an essential intermediate in synthesizing caprolactam, the monomer used for producing nylon-6 fibers and plastics. This involves catalytic oxidation and ring-closure reactions starting from Cyclohexanone’s ketone group. The purity of Cyclohexanone directly impacts the efficiency and quality of nylon intermediates, making reliable supply critical for textile and automotive industries.

Pharmaceutical Intermediate

In pharmaceutical manufacturing, Cyclohexanone serves as a solvent and reagent in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). It facilitates selective transformations in complex molecular structures, offering a controlled environment for chemical reactions. Use in this sector demands strict adherence to purity and storage regulations to avoid contamination.

Agrochemical Manufacturing

Cyclohexanone is utilized in agrochemical formulations as a solvent and chemical building block for herbicides, pesticides, and fungicides. Its compatibility with various active ingredients and solvents allows formulators in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania to develop stable agrochemical products with enhanced field performance.

Paint Solvent

In paint production, Cyclohexanone acts as a solvent that controls the rheology and drying characteristics of coatings. Its ability to dissolve film-forming polymers is key in ensuring uniform application and finish quality. Painters and manufacturers rely on Cyclohexanone to optimize drying times and surface adhesion, particularly in industrial and automotive coatings.

Looking for alternatives for a specific process? Browse the full Cleaning & Disinfection range or ask our technical team which grade fits your application.

Benefits and Advantages

Versatile Solvent Compatibility

Cyclohexanone’s moderate polarity allows it to dissolve both polar and non-polar resins, making it a go-to choice for varied industrial formulations. This versatility reduces the need for multiple solvents, simplifying inventory and lowering overall procurement complexity in manufacturing plants.

Chemical Stability Ensures Consistency

Under recommended storage conditions, Cyclohexanone resists unwanted polymerization and degradation, preserving its solvency and reactivity over time. This chemical stability prevents batch-to-batch variations that could disrupt production and product quality.

Essential Precursor for Nylon Production

As a backbone chemical for nylon-6 intermediates, Cyclohexanone’s availability and purity directly affect the yield and quality of nylon fibres and plastics. Its industrial importance supports diverse sectors such as textiles, automotive components, and packaging materials.

Availability and Support in East Africa

Supplied by Zenco Systems Ltd across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and neighboring countries, Cyclohexanone is backed by reliable logistics and technical advice. This regional focus minimizes lead times and helps customers maintain uninterrupted production cycles.

Packaging Information

Cyclohexanone is supplied primarily in industrial packaging designed for safe transport and storage in East Africa. Available packaging forms include 25kg and 200L drums, which suit medium to large scale industrial users. For bulk industrial requirements, Zenco Systems Ltd can coordinate tailored logistics and packaging solutions, ensuring compatibility with local handling infrastructure across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Drums are supplied with secure seals and compliant labeling in line with chemical transport regulations.

Standard formats: 25kg drum, 200L drum

Storage and Handling

Store Cyclohexanone in tightly sealed containers in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, and open flames due to its flammable nature. Use containers made of compatible materials, typically steel or certain chemical-resistant plastics. Avoid prolonged exposure to air to minimize oxidation. Segregate from strong oxidizers and acids to prevent hazardous reactions. Under proper conditions, expect shelf life stability of at least one year, but always verify quality prior to use. Handling should include grounding and bonding to prevent static discharge during transfer operations.

Safety Information

Cyclohexanone is flammable and can cause skin and eye irritation on direct contact. Use appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and protective clothing when handling. Ensure adequate ventilation to avoid inhaling vapors. In case of contact, rinse affected areas thoroughly with water. Dispose of waste according to local environmental regulations to prevent soil and water contamination. Consult the Cyclohexanone Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided by Zenco Systems Ltd for detailed hazard and first aid procedures.

Technical Specifications

GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
Density0.947 g/cm³ at 20°C
FormulaC6H10O
Packaging25kg drum, 200L drum
AppearanceColorless transparent liquid
CAS Number108-94-1
SolubilitySlightly soluble in water; miscible with most organic solvents
Flash Point44 °C (closed cup)
Boiling Point155.6 °C
Chemical NameCyclohexanone
Storage ConditionsStore in cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat and ignition sources

Applications

  • Solvent for adhesives and coatings
  • Precursor in nylon production
  • Pharmaceutical intermediate
  • Agrochemical manufacturing
  • Paint solvent

Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
Density0.947 g/cm³ at 20°C
FormulaC6H10O
Packaging25kg drum, 200L drum
AppearanceColorless transparent liquid
CAS Number108-94-1
SolubilitySlightly soluble in water; miscible with most organic solvents
Flash Point44 °C (closed cup)
Boiling Point155.6 °C
Chemical NameCyclohexanone
Storage ConditionsStore in cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat and ignition sources

Product Features

  • - Colorless transparent liquid
  • - Moderate polarity solvent
  • - Stable under typical storage
  • - Flammable with flash point 44 °C
  • - Soluble in organic solvents
  • - CAS number 108-94-1

Industries Served

  • - Chemical manufacturing
  • - Pharmaceuticals
  • - Textiles and fibers
  • - Adhesives and coatings
  • - Agrochemicals
  • - Paints and coatings

Product Overview

Frequently Asked Questions About Cyclohexanone

What is Cyclohexanone used for in industrial chemical production?

Cyclohexanone is primarily used as a solvent for adhesives, coatings, and as a precursor chemical in nylon-6 production. It also serves as an intermediate in pharmaceutical and agrochemical manufacturing.

How should Cyclohexanone be stored to maintain quality?

Store Cyclohexanone in sealed containers, in cool, ventilated areas away from heat and ignition sources. Use chemical-resistant containers and keep it segregated from oxidizing agents.

What packaging options are available for Cyclohexanone through Zenco Systems Ltd?

Zenco Systems Ltd supplies Cyclohexanone in 25kg drums and 200L drums, with bulk packaging options available upon request across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Is Cyclohexanone flammable and what precautions are necessary?

Yes, Cyclohexanone is flammable with a flash point of approximately 44°C. Use protective equipment, avoid open flames, and ensure proper ventilation during handling.

Can Zenco Systems Ltd supply Cyclohexanone outside Kenya?

Yes, Zenco Systems Ltd serves customers across East Africa, including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and other neighboring countries, leveraging established logistics for reliable cross-border delivery.

What is the typical purity of Cyclohexanone supplied by Zenco Systems Ltd?

Purity depends on the grade required; confirm exact purity with the supplier at the time of order to ensure it meets your application needs.

Is Cyclohexanone suitable for food-grade applications?

Cyclohexanone is generally not used for food-grade applications due to its chemical nature; it is mainly used in industrial and pharmaceutical manufacturing contexts.

What industries in East Africa rely most on Cyclohexanone?

Industries such as textile manufacturing (nylon production), pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, adhesives, and paints rely heavily on Cyclohexanone in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

What safety measures should workers take when handling Cyclohexanone?

Wear appropriate PPE including gloves and eye protection, ensure good ventilation, avoid skin and eye contact, and follow all safety data sheet recommendations.

How quickly can Zenco Systems Ltd deliver Cyclohexanone within East Africa?

Delivery times vary by location but Zenco Systems Ltd maintains efficient logistics in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and neighboring countries to minimize supply disruptions.

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