1,6-Dichlorohexane: Product Details, Properties, and Safe Handling

What is 1,6-Dichlorohexane?

1,6-Dichlorohexane stands out as an organic compound that delivers versatility for manufacturers looking to push ahead with polymer and pharmaceutical synthesis. Its molecular formula is C6H12Cl2, and the CAS number is 2163-00-0. Every chemist working with this compound soon becomes familiar with its structure, which connects two chlorine atoms at opposite ends of a six-carbon alkyl chain, setting up a foundation for robust reactivity—precisely what makes it valuable in a factory or laboratory setting.

Structure and Molecular Properties

With a linear six-carbon backbone capped by chlorines, the structure of 1,6-Dichlorohexane keeps things straightforward yet offers transformation potential. This bischloroalkane is more than just a string of atoms—chlorine adds density and reactivity to the mix, giving rise to several new materials through substitution and coupling reactions. The molecular weight sits around 155.06 g/mol, enough to catch attention for applications needing chlorinated intermediates. Its density checks in at 1.06 g/cm³ at 25°C, meaning it is heavier than water and settles easily when placed in a solution.

Physical Form and Storage

Product deliveries arrive most often in liquid form; at room temperature, 1,6-Dichlorohexane flows clear and colorless. Under colder conditions, crystals start to show up, demonstrating just how temperature-sensitive storage and handling routines must be. Rarely will it come as flakes, powder, or pearls, but in some raw material handling setups, small solid crystals may be scooped rather than poured. It dissolves in most organic solvents—think ether or chloroform—but tends to avoid mixing with water thanks to its nonpolar body.

Product Specifications

Straightforward details matter when choosing raw materials. Boiling point clocks in at roughly 233°C, which leaves plenty of headroom for controlled reactions requiring elevated temperatures. Melting comes in at -1°C to 0°C, so warehouse storage during winter needs to account for possible solidification. By sticking with tightly sealed drums and keeping moisture away, shelf life can extend for several months without much trouble. Purity often runs at 98% or greater, since impurities can throw off downstream processes like polymerizations or specialty chemical production.

Applications and Industry Use

Industrial chemists often turn to 1,6-Dichlorohexane as a building block in the synthesis of specialty polyamides, especially macrocyclic and high-performance types. Its reactivity with diamines sets it up for use in nylon-like polymers, adhesives, high-grade coatings, and select pharmaceutical intermediates. In the electronics industry, it may serve as a process intermediate or coupling agent. The reliability of this compound comes through most clearly on scale—countless synthetic routes trace their backbone to this molecule.

Regulation, HS Code, and Logistics

International shipments fall under HS Code 2903.19, classifying it as an organochlorine compound. Border authorities treat this substance as hazardous, which makes robust documentation and transport protocols essential, not just for compliance but for environmental stewardship. Regulatory compliance goes deeper than that, though. Disposal, spillage, and emergency measures must be mapped out for every batch released, underscoring the importance of chemical responsibility in global trade.

Health, Safety, and Handling

Every technical team has stories about the importance of proper chemical hygiene with chlorinated alkyls. 1,6-Dichlorohexane is harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin, and its volatility creates a risk of vapor exposure in hot or poorly ventilated environments. A quick splash in the eyes or accidental inhalation could prompt irritation, dizziness, and, with repeated or prolonged contact, possible organ impacts. Safety Data Sheets strongly advise using gloves, goggles, lab coats, and exhaust fans when moving, mixing, or sampling this raw material. If releases occur, swift cleanup using absorbent materials, then disposal at sanctioned chemical waste sites, can head off long-term risks to workers and the local environment.

Environmental Impact and Safe Use

Environmental impacts take center stage in any chemical operation, and 1,6-Dichlorohexane fits that trend. Accidental spills threaten waterways or soil; this chemical sinks rather than floats, making conventional cleanups harder. Most waste management systems require neutralization or incineration to prevent persistent contamination. Facilities care about these risks, lining storage areas with secondary containment and monitoring for leaks, prioritizing safety not just for the sake of workers but also for broader community health. Reuse, recycling, and alternatives may come into play, but keeping the product from escaping the production chain remains the top solution.

Conclusion and Outlook

Choosing and working with 1,6-Dichlorohexane means taking a serious look at technical details, storage, safety, and sustainable practices. Its role as a raw material extends from simple chemical supply houses all the way to cutting-edge labs developing advanced polymers. Teams equipped with strong safety protocols, regular training, and reliable supply chains keep benefits high and incidents low—demonstrating day in and day out that responsibility matters as much as reactivity.