Substance profile
Cyclohexanol
Cyclohexanol is colorless needles or viscous liquid with a camphor-like odor.
01 · Identification
What Cyclohexanol is
Cyclohexanol is colorless needles or viscous liquid with a camphor-like odor. Its molecular formula is C6H12O and its molecular weight is 100.16 g/mol. It boils at 162 °C, melts at 25.9 °C.
Under the GHS it carries the signal word Warning. It is classed as flammable agents - 2nd degree.
02 · GHS classification
Hazards and label elements
Harmonised classification under CLP Annex VI. This is the legally binding classification in the EU; other jurisdictions may differ.
| Code | Hazard statement |
|---|---|
| H332 | Harmful if inhaled. |
| H302 | Harmful if swallowed. |
| H335 | May cause respiratory irritation. |
| H315 | Causes skin irritation. |
Precautionary statements: P260, P264, P270, P271, P280, P301, P302, P304, P312, P313, P330, P332, P352
03 · Physical and chemical properties
Cyclohexanol properties
Every value is shown with the conditions it was measured under and the source it came from. Where sources disagree, all values are listed rather than one being picked — the difference is usually a different form of the substance, not an error.
| Property | Value | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boiling point | 161.84 °C (323.3 °F) | HSDB | |
| 161.11 °C (322 °F) | NIOSH | ||
| 161.11 °C (322 °F) | at 760 mmHg | CAMEO | |
| Melting point | 25.93 °C (78.7 °F) | HSDB | |
| 25 °C (77 °F) | NIOSH | ||
| 22.78 °C (73 °F) | CAMEO | ||
| Density | 0.96 g/cm³ | NIOSH | |
| 0.9624 g/cm³ | at 20 °C | HSDB | |
| 0.947 g/cm³ | at 20 °C | CAMEO | |
| Solubility | Soluble in ethanol, ethyl ether, acetone; miscible with benzene; slightly soluble in chloroform | HSDB | |
| 4% | NIOSH | ||
| 3.6% (wt/wt) in water at 20 °C; miscible with ethyl acetate, linseed oil, petroleum solvents. | at 20 °C | HSDB | |
| Vapor pressure | 1 mmHg | NIOSH | |
| 1.1251 mmHg | at 20 °C | HSDB | |
| 0.657 mmHg | at 25 °C | HSDB | |
| Flash point | 62.8 °C (145 °F) | closed cup | HSDB |
| 67.78 °C (154 °F) | NIOSH | ||
| Autoignition temperature | 300 °C (572 °F) | HSDB | |
| Lower explosive limit (LEL) | 2.7 % by volume | HSDB | |
| 2.4 % by volume | ICSC | ||
| Above 68 °C explosive vapor/air mixtures may be formed. | HSDB | ||
| Upper explosive limit (UEL) | 12 % by volume | HSDB | |
| Vapor density | 3.5 (air = 1) | HSDB | |
| Odor threshold | 0.07 ppm | HSDB | |
| Odor Threshold Low: 0.05 [ppm] | Haz-Map | ||
| Odor Threshold High: 0.15 [ppm] | Haz-Map | ||
| Critical temperature and pressure | 376.95 °C (710.5 °F) | HSDB |
Values compiled from PubChem Laboratory Chemical Safety Summary. Temperatures converted to Fahrenheit for reference.
04 · Handling and storage
Storing and handling Cyclohexanol
Storage conditions
Cyclohexanol must be stored to avoid contact with strong oxidizers (such as chlorine, bromine, and fluorine), since violent reactions occur. Metal containers involving the transfer of this chemical should be grounded and bonded. Where possible, automatically pump liquid from drums or other storage containers to process containers. Drums must be equipped with self-closing valves, pressure vacuum bungs, and flame arresters. Use only non-sparking tools and equipment, especially when opening and closing containers of this chemical. Sources of ignition, such as smoking and open flames, are prohibited where this chemical is used, handled, or stored in a manner that could created a potential fire or explosion hazard. Wherever this chemical is used, handled, manufactured, or stored, use explosion-proof electrical equipment and fittings.
Source: Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
Incompatible materials
Contact with strong oxidizers causes a fire and explosion hazard. Attacks some plastics.
Source: Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
Reactivity
CYCLOHEXANOL is an alcohol. Flammable and/or toxic gases are generated by the combination of alcohols with alkali metals, nitrides, and strong reducing agents. They react with oxoacids and carboxylic acids to form esters plus water. Oxidizing agents convert them to aldehydes or ketones. Alcohols exhibit both weak acid and weak base behavior. They may initiate the polymerization of isocyanates and epoxides. Violent reaction with nitric acid. Incompatible with strong oxidizers (chromium trioxide, nitric acid, etc.). (NTP, 1992)
Source: CAMEO Chemicals
Planning storage for a mix of chemicals? Check Cyclohexanol in the storage compatibility matrix →