N-hexane is a clear colorless liquid with a petroleum-like odor. Flash points -9 °F. Less dense than water and insoluble in water. Vapors heavier than air. Used as a solvent, paint thinner, and chemical reaction medium. Pure-Hexane is used in laboratories. Most of then-Hexane used in industry is mixed with similar chemicals called solvents. The major use for solvents containing n-Hexane is to extract vegetable oils from crops such as soybeans. These solvents are also used as cleaning agents in the printing, textile, furniture, and shoemaking industries. Certain kinds of special glues used in the roofing and shoe and leather industries also contain n-Hexane. Several consumer products contains-Hexane, such as gasoline, quick-drying glues used in various hobbies, and rubber cement.
- Hexane is used as a solvent to extract edible oils from seed and vegetable crops, glues (rubber cement, adhesives), varnishes, and inks.
- Hexane is also used as a cleaning agent in the printing industry , and as the liquid in low temperature thermometers
