Xylene is widely considered one of the most reliable industrial chemicals, with a wide range of applications. Common xylene thinners are just the beginning. A few frequent applications include:
- Industrial cleaning. Xylene is ideal for heavy-duty cleaning applications. Its slow evaporation rate makes xylene a superior solvent for specific cleaning and degreasing applications. It effectively cleans oil-based paint, varnish, or polyurethane application tools; lacquer and epoxy application tools; new wood before finishing and oil coatings before refinishing. Xylene can be used for degreasing bare metal and painted metal parts.
- Petroleum production. Xylene solvent is frequently used for blending into petroleum and gasoline.
- Labs. In laboratories, xylene solution is commonly used in chemical reactions or functionally to remove paraffin from microscope slides. Additionally, it can be used to make baths with dry ice.
- Chemistry. In addition to petroleum, xylene is effective when blended for the printing industry and pharmaceuticals. It is also found in perfumes and pesticides.
- Concrete sealing. Xylene is commonly used for concrete sealing applications. When used in solvent-based acrylic sealers, the solution can be used in concert with re-melting an existing surface, after which the xylene evaporates and leaves a smooth, shiny surface. This is an effective method for treating scratches or for new decorative purposes.
- Thinning. Xylol paint thinner can be used for oil-based paints or stains, lacquers, polyurethanes, epoxies, oil finishes, enamels, varnishes, and alkyd resins — but only when the coating manufacturer recommends it as an approved thinner.
- Removing paint. It’s for more than thinning, as well. Xylene thinner is frequently used for removing paint. When handled safely and in a well-ventilated area, xylene can be a very effective paint remover.
Degreasing. For metal and concrete surfaces, degreasing can be incredibly challenging. The nature of xylene is such that degreasing can be done safely and effectively.