The condensed structural formula for Hexane is C6H14. The chemical element is a hydrocarbon that is an alkane with six carbon atoms.
• Uses
Hexane is used as a part of gasoline. It has a boiling temperature of between 55 degrees Celsius and 70 degrees Celsius, and is a colorless liquid. It is a relatively safe solvent. Hexanes are also used in the glue that is used to make shoes, as well as in roofing and in certain products that are manufactured from leather. It is also useful as a cleaner in that it can remove grease very well.
Extraction of oils from seeds is another use for hexanes, and is also used to extract protein from soy. There have been recent fears, however that the use of hexane to extract from seeds and soy has an adverse effect on health and different solvents are now being used.
• Side effects
Hexane comes from crude oil and is refined. As such it is classed as toxic and although the toxicity of it is low, it can be classed as a mild anesthetic. The inhalation of hexane can cause headaches and nauseous symptoms. If a human is exposed to high levels of hexane it is possible that the peripheral nervous system can fail, and this can lead to severe cramp in the arms and legs, as well as muscle weakness.
Prolonged exposure to hexane will eventually damage the central nervous system. The most reported cases of intoxication from hexane are in the furniture restoration business and construction of vehicles, as well as in the shoe manufacturing trade.
• Uses
Hexane is used as a part of gasoline. It has a boiling temperature of between 55 degrees Celsius and 70 degrees Celsius, and is a colorless liquid. It is a relatively safe solvent. Hexanes are also used in the glue that is used to make shoes, as well as in roofing and in certain products that are manufactured from leather. It is also useful as a cleaner in that it can remove grease very well.
Extraction of oils from seeds is another use for hexanes, and is also used to extract protein from soy. There have been recent fears, however that the use of hexane to extract from seeds and soy has an adverse effect on health and different solvents are now being used.
• Side effects
Hexane comes from crude oil and is refined. As such it is classed as toxic and although the toxicity of it is low, it can be classed as a mild anesthetic. The inhalation of hexane can cause headaches and nauseous symptoms. If a human is exposed to high levels of hexane it is possible that the peripheral nervous system can fail, and this can lead to severe cramp in the arms and legs, as well as muscle weakness.
Prolonged exposure to hexane will eventually damage the central nervous system. The most reported cases of intoxication from hexane are in the furniture restoration business and construction of vehicles, as well as in the shoe manufacturing trade.
