[Chemical Knowledge]：Properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods of diethylbenzene, 1,2-diethylbenzene

Diethylbenzene properties

Diethylbenzene (Diethylbenzene, DEB) is a compound of great industrial interest with the chemical formula C10H14. As an aromatic hydrocarbon, diethylbenzene is a colorless transparent liquid at room temperature and has an aromatic odor. It has a density of 0.87g/cm³, a boiling point of around 180°C and a flash point of about 65°C. Diethylbenzene is chemically stable, but may react at high temperatures or when exposed to strong oxidants. Its solubility in water is very low, but it can be miscible with most organic solvents.

Diethylbenzene uses

Diethylbenzene is widely used in the chemical and petrochemical industries. Its main uses include:

1. Solvent: Diethylbenzene is often used as a solvent for paints, coatings, resins and other polymer materials. Because of its good solubility and relatively low toxicity, it has a place in these fields.

2. Intermediates: In organic synthesis, diethylbenzene is used as an intermediate in the production of various compounds, such as pesticides, dyes and pharmaceuticals. For example, it can be nitrated to dinitrodiethylbenzene, which can be further reduced to produce the corresponding diamine compound.

3. Additives: Diethylbenzene is used in some cases as an additive to fuels and lubricating oils to improve their combustion properties and lubrication.

Diethylbenzene upstream and downstream feedstock

Upstream raw materials

The production of diethylbenzene is mainly achieved by the alkylation reaction of ethylbenzene. Common production methods include:

1. Ethylbenzene alkylation: Ethylbenzene is alkylated with ethylene in the presence of a catalyst to produce diethylbenzene. Typical catalysts include acidic catalysts such as sulfuric acid or solid acid catalysts such as HZSM-5 zeolites.

2. Benzene alkylation: benzene and ethylene through two-step alkylation reaction, Mr. into ethylbenzene, and then further alkylation of ethylbenzene diethylbenzene.

Downstream Products

Diethylbenzene is an important intermediate that can be further processed to produce a variety of chemical products:

1. Diethylphenylenediamine, an important dye and pharmaceutical intermediate, can be prepared by nitration and reduction of diethylbenzene.

2. Diethylphenylphenol: Diethylbenzene can react with phenol to form diethylphenylphenol, which has important applications in the production of antioxidants and UV absorbers.

Diethylbenzene storage method

Since diethylbenzene is a flammable liquid, the safety regulations for the storage of chemicals must be strictly followed to ensure its safe storage:

1. Storage environment should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, away from fire sources, heat sources and strong oxidants. The storage temperature should be kept low to avoid spontaneous combustion or evaporation.

2. Container requirements: use a closed metal container for storage, the container should be corrosion-resistant and have good sealing. It is recommended to use stainless steel or steel containers coated with anti-corrosion coating.

3. Protective measures: the storage area should be equipped with fire prevention equipment and leakage emergency treatment facilities. The staff should wear protective equipment, such as protective gloves, protective glasses and protective clothing, to avoid skin and eye contact.

4. Identification and records: the storage container shall be clearly marked with the name of the substance, its danger and handling precautions. Detailed storage records shall be maintained and the condition of the vessel shall be checked regularly to ensure that there is no leakage or damage.

Environmental Impact and Safety Precautions

Although diethylbenzene is widely used in industry, the environmental impact and safety risks in its production and use cannot be ignored:

1. Environmental impact: If diethylbenzene is accidentally leaked, it will cause pollution to the environment, especially to water and soil. Therefore, it is necessary to take effective pollution control measures to prevent it from entering the environment.

2. Health risks: Long-term exposure to diethylbenzene may cause health hazards, such as skin irritation, respiratory tract irritation, etc. The plant shall provide the necessary protective equipment to ensure the health and safety of employees.

3. Emergency treatment: in case of leakage or fire, people should be evacuated quickly, appropriate fire extinguishing agent (such as dry powder, foam) should be used to extinguish the fire source, and water should be avoided to prevent the expansion of pollution. The emergency treatment of leakage should use adsorption materials for control and cleaning to prevent secondary pollution.

Conclusion

As an important industrial compound, diethylbenzene has a wide range of applications and mature production processes. Due to its flammable and volatile nature, safety regulations must be strictly observed during production, storage and use to prevent environmental pollution and personal injury. Through scientific management and rational use, the economic value of diethylbenzene can be maximized, while ensuring the safety of the environment and personnel.