Cyclohexanone is an organic compound with the chemical formula C₆H₁₀O. It is a colorless, flammable liquid with a distinctive sweetish odor, resembling that of acetone or other ketones. Cyclohexanone is primarily used as an intermediate in the production of nylon and other chemicals. It is a cyclic ketone, where a carbonyl group (C=O) is attached to a cyclohexane ring.
This versatile compound is highly used in the chemical industry, especially in the manufacture of caprolactam (used in nylon production), solvents, and as a precursor to various pharmaceuticals and pesticides.
Properties of Cyclohexanone:
- Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₀O
- Molar Mass: 98.15 g/mol
- CAS Number: 108-94-1
- Functional Group: Ketone group (-C=O) attached to a cyclohexane ring (C₆H₁₀).
- Reactivity:
- Cyclohexanone is reactive in nucleophilic addition reactions due to the carbonyl group. It can form hydroxycyclohexane derivatives when treated with nucleophiles such as amines or alcohols.
- It is susceptible to reduction, forming cyclohexanol when hydrogenated.
- It also participates in Grignard reactions and can undergo aldol condensation reactions in the presence of a base.
- Appearance: Colorless liquid with a sweet, acetone-like odor.
- Density: 0.947 g/cm³ at 20°C.
- Boiling Point: 155.6°C (312°F).
- Melting Point: -31.3°C (-24.3°F).
- Solubility: Cyclohexanone is miscible with a wide range of organic solvents like ethanol, acetone, benzene, and ether. It is slightly soluble in water (~1 g/100 mL at 25°C).
- Vapor Pressure: 2.6 mmHg at 20°C.
- Viscosity: Relatively low viscosity (~0.93 cP at 20°C).
Uses of Cyclohexanone:
- Nylon Production: Essential in the synthesis of caprolactam, a precursor to nylon 6.
- Solvent: Used as a solvent in paint removers, adhesives, and coatings.
- Chemical Intermediate: Used in the production of other chemicals like adipic acid and hexamine.