| Names | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Keton cyclohexyl Cyclohexyl ketone Pimelic ketone Hexanonaphthone C6H10O |
| Pronunciation | /ˌsaɪ.kloʊˈhɛk.səˌnoʊn/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | 108-94-1 |
| Beilstein Reference | 1204241 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:17854 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL16222 |
| ChemSpider | 8039 |
| DrugBank | DB03361 |
| ECHA InfoCard | ECHA InfoCard: 100.003.455 |
| EC Number | 203-631-1 |
| Gmelin Reference | 82085 |
| KEGG | C06521 |
| MeSH | D003533 |
| PubChem CID | 7967 |
| RTECS number | GV7875000 |
| UNII | LH374O68EZ |
| UN number | UN1915 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C6H10O |
| Molar mass | 98.15 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid with a pungent odor |
| Odor | Sweet, pungent, mint-like |
| Density | 0.9478 g/cm³ |
| Solubility in water | 86 g/L |
| log P | 1.23 |
| Vapor pressure | 0.97 kPa (at 20 °C) |
| Acidity (pKa) | 20.7 |
| Basicity (pKb) | pKb ≈ 23 |
| Magnetic susceptibility (χ) | -6.68 × 10⁻⁶ |
| Refractive index (nD) | 1.450 |
| Viscosity | 2.02 mPa·s (25 °C) |
| Dipole moment | 3.87 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | 209.2 J/mol·K |
| Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298) | -242.0 kJ·mol⁻¹ |
| Std enthalpy of combustion (ΔcH⦵298) | -3547 kJ/mol |
| Pharmacology | |
| ATC code | D06AX14 |
| Hazards | |
| GHS labelling | GHS02, GHS07 |
| Pictograms | GHS02, GHS07, GHS08 |
| Signal word | Danger |
| Hazard statements | H226, H302, H312, H315, H319, H332 |
| Precautionary statements | P210, P261, P280, P303+P361+P353, P305+P351+P338, P312 |
| NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | 2-3-1 |
| Flash point | 42 °C |
| Autoignition temperature | 420 °C |
| Explosive limits | 1.1–9.4% |
| Lethal dose or concentration | LD50 (oral, rat): 1,620 mg/kg |
| NIOSH | KET 50 |
| PEL (Permissible) | 50 ppm |
| REL (Recommended) | 25 ppm |
| IDLH (Immediate danger) | 700 ppm |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds | Cyclohexane Phenol Caprolactam Cyclohexanol Adipic acid |
| Section | Details & Commentary |
|---|---|
| Product Name & IUPAC Name |
Product Name: Cyclohexanone IUPAC Name: Cyclohexanone As manufacturers, we use the IUPAC name, Cyclohexanone, in regulatory documents and on batch certificates. This removes ambiguity during compliance inspections and supports traceability across international trade documents. For internal operations, short-form naming persists for process efficiency and rapid cross-departmental communication. |
| Chemical Formula |
C6H10O
Cyclohexanone’s simple molecular structure drives selection of feedstocks in oxidation and hydrogenation process routes. The formula highlights the balance between carbon source quality (usually cyclohexane or phenol as raw materials) and oxygen utilization. Consistency in formula is non-negotiable for downstream polymer-grade allocations. |
| Synonyms & Trade Names | Cyclohexanone is also labeled as Pimelic ketone, Ketohexamethylene, and Oxocyclohexane by some end users and within certain regional markets. Practical operations reference synonyms in shipping documents and material acceptance protocols to avoid confusion, especially where local documentation standards diverge from international harmonization. In bulk chemical supply, safety labeling adheres to the harmonized system to ensure cross-border recognition by customs and plant operators. |
| HS Code & Customs Classification |
HS Code: 29142200 (Internationally referenced, but subject to national customs updates depending on region and local modifications to HS nomenclature.)
On the manufacturing side, trade codes impact material flow. For plant shipments over country borders, classification under 29142200 (or locally harmonized equivalents) determines tariff application, import/export licensing, and pre-notification tasks. Product categorization under this code reflects feedback from regulatory product tracking, not just molecular properties. Updating customs declarations for various derivatives or grade-adjusted batches depends on this item, particularly when supplying to specialty manufacturers versus large-scale polymer plants. |
Cyclohexanone is produced as a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid with a distinct, penetrating odor. In technical production environments, the form and color correlate with the grade and downstream requirements. The presence of color bodies traces back to raw material quality, process temperature control, and efficiency of purification steps.
The melting point and boiling point reflect purity and residual solvent content. Industrially, boiling typically falls within a narrow range, but must be confirmed for each batch, as minor impurities or residual solvent can shift it slightly. Density ranges are tracked, especially in grades intended for polymer intermediates or chemical synthesis.
Reactivity management forms part of daily process control. Cyclohexanone remains stable under nitrogen but can undergo slow oxidation in air, especially under light. Typical storage practice in manufacturing sites involves blanketing with inert gas, adjusting headspace oxygen, and monitoring for peroxide build-up. Grade selection for further synthesis takes into account the potential for self-condensation or polymerization, especially in the presence of acids or bases.
Product solubility is a critical parameter in coating, polymer, and pharmaceutical processes. Cyclohexanone mixes with organic solvents but dissolves in water at limited ratios; the solubility ceiling varies slightly between grades due to impurity profile. For solution preparations on a manufacturing scale, temperature, agitation, and dilution order influence dispersion, affecting batch-to-batch reproducibility downstream.
Grades are defined to support nylon intermediate, solvent, and reagent markets, with each grade targeting specific downstream reactions or process requirements. Typical release parameters include color, purity by GC, water content, and a limiting impurity set. Parameters such as appearance, acid value, and evaporation residue matter for specialty applications. Detailed specifications can be defined according to product grade and end user requirements.
The most critical impurities include cyclohexanol, residual benzene, unsaturated byproducts, and trace heavy metals. The impurity profile depends on the synthesis route and purification steps. For applications demanding low odor, peroxide-forming impurities receive close monitoring, with batch release tied to maximum allowable thresholds established in consultation with major downstream users.
Quality assurance relies on validated methods: gas chromatography for purity, Karl Fischer for water, colorimetric methods for appearance. Regulatory and internal standards align, but updates follow customer-specified and global regulatory shifts. The final release standard is subject to internal quality control criteria and customer requirements.
Cyclohexanone production starts from benzene or cyclohexane. Feedstock quality greatly influences crude impurity load and purification effort. Sourcing targets minimum sulfur, nitrogen, and unsaturate content in the feed, as these result in challenging downstream impurities or odor bodies. Reliability in raw material supply is guaranteed through long-term supplier audits and multi-sourcing strategies.
In practice, the bulk of cyclohexanone manufacturing uses hydrogenation of phenol or oxidation of cyclohexane with controlled air or oxygen. Catalyst system selection (cobalt or copper for oxidation, nickel for hydrogenation) is chosen based on selectivity, downstream purification demand, and total life-cycle cost. Key process parameters include reaction temperature, pressure, and rate of feed addition. Control of exotherm and oxygen concentration prevents runaway side reactions and minimizes peroxide generation.
The main control points center on temperature regulation, reactor oxygen or hydrogen partial pressure, and real-time concentration tracking. Continuous distillation and vacuum stripping dominate purification, with activated carbon or molecular sieve finishing steps applied for high-purity or low-color grades. The process efficiency depends on catalyst and solvent recovery rates. Impurity generation is traced to upstream raw material variance and incomplete reaction. Process analytics provide early warnings for batch deviation.
Every batch undergoes real-time process checks, with laboratory confirmation of GC purity, water, and key impurity limits before bulk packaging. Batch release criteria evolve, subject to regulatory changes and industrial standards shifts. Consistency targets ensure dependable performance in polyamide, coatings, and fine chemical processes. Any batch outside specification triggers root cause investigation and possible reprocessing.
Cyclohexanone participates in nucleophilic addition, reduction, condensation, and ring-opening reactions. The ketone group makes it susceptible to oxime formation (for nylon manufacture) and Grignard additions. Typical industrial conversions require temperature, solvent, and catalyst control for selective reaction efficiency.
Reaction parameters such as catalyst metal, temperature, solvent system, and reactant ratios are matched to product grade and desired conversion. In oximation, aqueous hydroxylamine and acid catalysis drive the reaction. For reductions, hydrogen and nickel or copper catalysts are standard, with control by pressure and substrate ratio. Byproduct trends and product quality link directly to these chosen conditions.
Main downstream products include caprolactam (for nylon 6), cyclohexanol, and various cyclohexanone resins and intermediates. Each derivative’s required cyclohexanone grade is set by color, purity, and trace metal content, demanding robust feedforward quality planning at the manufacturing site.
Bulk storage uses carbon steel tanks with nitrogen blanketing. Light avoidance reduces peroxide formation and color drift. Temperature control typically prevents freeze-thaw cycles, as such fluctuations can induce product haze and container gasket wear. Humidity is controlled to manage water ingress, which can shift water content and acid value beyond acceptable limits for fine chemical applications.
Cyclohexanone attacks certain plastics and swelling agents in elastomers, so compatible linings are specified for both short-term and long-term storage. Stainless steel, specialty epoxy resins, and compatible seals offer the best resistance, especially for high-purity packaging.
Product shelf life hinges on color stability, resistance to odor change, and absence of peroxide build-up. Signs of degradation include increased acidity, color darkening, and sharp odor changes. Shelf life depends strongly on production route, packaging, and storage environment. Routine on-site retesting ensures continued suitability for downstream processing.
Cyclohexanone falls under the flammable liquids hazard category, with clear requirements for fire risk management and chemical handling. Skin and eye contact can cause irritation; inhalation requires effective ventilation precautions. Labels and documentation reflect current global regulations.
Production areas enforce local exhaust, splash protection, and fire suppression readiness. Emergency showers and eyewash stations are standard near handling points. The main risks focus on vapor inhalation and flammability; plant layout and procedure design address these directly. Drum and tank unloading procedures include vapor management and electrostatic hazard mitigation.
Occupational exposure is monitored via air sampling and periodic health surveillance for exposed operators. Handling guidelines reflect measured airborne concentrations and skin/eye exposure thresholds, which vary by country. Production teams use closed transfer systems, personal protective equipment, and routine training to ensure personnel safety during all charging, filling, and blending operations.
Cyclohexanone production is governed by feedstock supply, reactor uptime, and process consistency. Production routes using cyclohexane oxidation or phenol hydrogenation each impose their own raw material reliability requirements and vary in flexibility. Feedstock disruptions, reactor performance, and utility availability all constrain monthly output. Seasonality in feedstock markets or planned turnarounds in upstream petrochemical plants can sharply affect operating rates. For technical grade and high-purity grades, QC bottlenecks and contamination risks often dictate batch release pacing, sometimes slowing final product clearance.
Lead time is grade- and route-driven. Industrial grade cyclohexanone sourced from continuous production lines supports shorter lead times relative to high-purity or specialized grades, which require longer analytical turnaround and additional purification cycles. Minimum order quantities reflect bulk logistics constraints. Drum shipments entail different handling overheads than iso-tank or flexi-bag loads. Lead time for international buyers factors in port congestion and regional demand surges.
The packaging format—metal drum, IBC, flexi-tank, or bulk ISO-container—is set during order confirmation based on grade, transit duration, and customer filling protocols. Certified grades with low water or impurity allowance tend to require inerted packaging, tamper-evident closures, or even dedicated cleanroom filling. Lower-grade bulk supplies leverage standard IBC or drum lines, but every packaging change introduces the potential for trace contamination, so batch-release review addresses this risk.
Standard INCOTERMS apply. FOB and CFR dominate for bulk trade, while ex-works or DAP appears for regional buyers. We optimize shipment timing against weather, port cycles, and local chemical storage restrictions. Payment terms follow industry standards, but L/C or advance TT is more common in export markets with high volatility or credit risk.
Feedstock pricing sets the base for cyclohexanone cost structure. Crude oil and benzene index volatility flows downstream to cyclohexane or phenol, the essential starting materials, impacting monthly pricing. Energy costs, particularly for hydrogen and process steam, increase when regional natural gas rates spike. Compliance and energy-related surcharges sometimes appear during supply chain shocks—this can cause abrupt cost escalation even for existing contracts.
High-purity cyclohexanone commands a noticeable premium over technical or solvent grades. Ultra-low residual water content, trace impurity filtering, and batch-specific lot data certification add analytical and operational costs. Downstream application—pharmaceutical, agrochemical, or polymer synthesis—dictates specification stringency. Exporting certified product with packaging conformant to ADR/RID or IMDG is more demanding than routine drum shipments, and this affects final pricing tiers.
Spot price swings track three factors: feedstock cost jumps, plant outages in major producing regions, and regulatory interventions, especially in environmental audits or safety clampdowns in Asia. Industrial users sometimes request custom lots with atypical impurity maxima or specific inhibitor levels, shifting cost structure due to off-standard production. Domestic-overseas price differentials also follow trade policy and logistics overhead.
Steady demand comes from nylon intermediates and solvent applications. The US and EU mostly run on integrated production chains, using phenol hydrogenation and upgrading within their chemical parks, while Chinese plants rely on both cyclohexane oxidation and captive purification. India ramps capacity for domestic growth, balancing local feedstock with competitive imports.
Forward pricing depends on crude oil and benzene cost trajectories, regional energy market volatility, and tightening regulatory frameworks, particularly in Asia. Capacity additions in India and China may buffer global price surges, but any lag in feedstock supply or regulatory delays could reverse this trend. Inventory buildup risk exists in slow global demand growth scenarios. If high-performance grades see greater uptake in the battery materials or electronic chemical sectors, price separation between technical and specialty grades will widen further.
Price trends reference ICIS, Argus, Platts, and validated contract settlement data for major producing regions. Internal cost structure draws from raw material contracts, tracked utility pricing, and recent batch release financial audits. Demand projections compare downstream client forecast volumes and annual order book review.
Tighter environmental and health regulations impacted Chinese production in recent quarters, with several operators undertaking unplanned shutdowns for compliance inspection. North American producers review resilience to hurricane season disruptions after recent plant incident reports.
Global emphasis on traceability and process safety intensifies. EU REACH re-verification pushed several producers to review documentation and impurity disclosure. Japanese downstream buyers increased scrutiny on residual solvent content and contamination control in packaged product, extending lot release cycles.
Manufacturers responded by revising feedstock sourcing strategies across multiple upstream suppliers, strengthening internal batch tracking, and adopting risk-based process audits to minimize impurity carryover. Production planning prioritizes compliance-driven demand, especially for repeat customers with stringent specification histories. Operational flexibility comes from diversifying process routes and maintaining surge batching capacity for urgent client requests.
Most industrial cyclohexanone is produced for use as a precursor to nylon intermediates, specifically cyclohexanone oxime, leading to caprolactam and adipic acid manufacturing. The polymer industry requires consistent chemical purity to minimize side-reactions and ensure product color stability. In the coatings sector, cyclohexanone works as a solvent for resins and paints, where balance between volatility, solubility, and odor becomes more relevant than ultra-high purity. Industrial cleaning and degreasing applications often tolerate broader specifications but are sensitive to water content and odors from trace aldehydes or acids. The pharmaceutical and agrochemical sectors demand strict impurity profiling; even residual aromatic content or minor byproducts draw regulatory scrutiny.
| Application | Grade Used | Key Selection Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Nylon Precursors (Caprolactam, Adipic Acid) | Chemical Synthesis Grade | Low aromatic and phenolic impurities; consistent batch purity; minimized residual water content |
| Solvents for Paints, Resins, Inks | Technical Grade | Solvent power, controlled volatility, general odor profile, less stringent impurity requirements than synthesis grade |
| Pharmaceutical Synthesis | Pharma Grade (if available), or Highest Purity Synthesis Grade | Ultra-low level of aldehydes, acids, and aromatic contaminants; traceability and batch consistency |
| Industrial Cleaning/De-greasing Agents | Industrial Grade | Acceptable odor profile, minimized water, tolerance for higher impurity levels where permitted |
| Agrochemical Synthesis | Synthesis or Custom Grade | Low byproduct carryover, minimized sulfur or nitrogenous compounds |
Nylon industry buyers scrutinize carbonyl content, water, and traces of aromatic hydrocarbons, as these can catalyze side reactions during oxime formation. Coatings applications weigh solubility, evaporation profile, and odor, accepting wider impurity ranges if the solvent’s application profile remains predictable. For drug or API synthesis, product grades are assessed for specific byproduct fingerprints—such as 2-cyclohexen-1-one or phenol traces—and full traceability is required batch to batch. Cleaning applications ask for characteristics that prevent streaking or odor residue after drying. Agrochemical sectors may define unique limits for sulfur and nitrogen compounds, rooted in downstream catalyst sensitivities.
Start by describing the industrial process cyclohexanone will be used in and its function—whether as an intermediate, solvent, or process aid. This step drives the rest of the grade selection and helps clarify downstream constraints early.
Map out any end-use or market-specific regulatory issues, such as requirements for EU REACH, US FDA, or other regional authorities. The application may trigger trace impurity limits or demand full batch traceability. In pharma and agrochem, compliance shapes the required grade or even the processing aids allowable during manufacturing.
Compare the application's technical requirements to grade specifications on moisture, distillation range, aldehyde, acid number, and aromatic content. For example, synthesis for nylon intermediates prioritizes low phenol and aromatics; solvent grades for coatings allow more flexibility if downstream processes are robust to trace impurities.
High-volume continuous processes such as nylon monomer plants typically order synthesis or technical grades in bulk, with negotiated impurity controls adapted to their process tolerances. Sectors with small-scale or irregular needs—such as R&D, specialty pharma, or fine chemicals—may select higher-purity grades in smaller lots, balancing cost against process risk and regulatory demands.
After technical screening, clients benefit from validating a manufacturer’s batch sample to assess real-world formulation or process impact, not just specification sheet numbers. In our experience, lab and pilot trials frequently surface undocumented sensitivities to trace byproducts or odorous residues, particularly in high-purity or specialty fields. This sample-led approach pinpoints critical batch-to-batch consistency checkpoints before scaling up supply agreements.
As a chemical manufacturer, our cyclohexanone production site operates under an established quality management framework. Internal audits evaluate controls for traceability, change management, corrective action, and documentation integrity at each production stage. Manufacturing teams hold current certificates for recognized standards such as ISO 9001, valid throughout the site and subject to renewal based on scheduled third-party surveillance. Senior QC engineers regularly review process data and inspection protocols to ensure these standards are implemented, not just archived for audit cycles.
Cyclohexanone supplied for regulated sectors, such as pharmaceutical or food-contact intermediates, observes additional customer-defined qualification steps. Where certification for compliance with sectoral standards—such as GMP guidelines or regional product registrations—is required, the process includes review of batch documentation, targeted impurity profiling, and release by experienced analysts. Product grades destined for sensitive downstream use adhere to stricter release thresholds, often based on collaborative quality agreements.
Every bulk or packaged delivery leaves the plant with a comprehensive batch record. This includes origin of raw materials, production route, in-process verification, analytical certificates, and traceable signatures of release chemists. Analytical methods vary according to grade; core parameters include identification, purity by GC, water content, color metrics, and quantified specified impurities where application demands. For users needing more than standard CoAs, technical dossiers or detailed impurity statements can be provided following prior agreement. Auditable production and testing records remain on file according to regional and customer-specific retention requirements.
Manufacturing lines designed for cyclohexanone run continuous or semi-batch modes, depending on grade and market segment. Engineering controls buffer input variation and match output to forecast, so supply interruptions rarely reach downstream partners. Where demand cycles shift or specialty requirements arise, the business team aligns with planning engineers to adjust production slots or re-prioritize grades. Customers in strategic sectors benefit from collaborative annual supply planning, including reservation of campaign capacity.
Feedstock sourcing for cyclohexanone follows a dual-vendor protocol to avoid disruption. Core production relies on fixed-bed oxidation of cyclohexane or oxidation of phenol, route selected for consistency with impurity targets and end-use demands. All reactors and distillation equipment undergo predictive maintenance to ensure line uptime. Historical operational data demonstrate batch-to-batch consistency based on impurity profile tracking and yield statistics. For long-term partners, supply capabilities are defined not only by installed nameplate capacity but also by hands-on production statistics over rolling multi-year periods.
Potential downstream customers can initiate sample requests through direct liaison with the technical team. QC specialists oversee preparation of sample volumes tailored for method development, performance validation, or prototype runs. For custom grades or new applications, dedicated sample batches undergo extra verification steps—such as extended stability checks or specialized impurity screening—before shipment. Every sample ships with a corresponding analytical report and production record excerpt for traceability.
Flexibility in business cooperation covers multi-year offtake agreements, just-in-time shipment, spot contract participation, and toll manufacturing scenarios. Some industrial clients require delivery windows tailored to plant turnaround schedules; others need dual grading, partial lots, or transloading services at regional hubs. The supply chain team works directly with customers to build supply models addressing logistics, volume fluctuation buffers, stock management at shared depots, and scalable order increments. For high-purity or restricted-use grades, joint control protocols and customer-specific release testing may be integrated into the delivery workflow.
In recent years, the R&D landscape for cyclohexanone has been shaped by the demand from downstream applications, particularly in caprolactam and adipic acid manufacturing. Continuous improvement in process selectivity and reduction of byproducts has led to deeper investigations into catalyst efficiency and lifecycle. Research within manufacturing teams focuses on minimizing raw material loss, reducing peroxide formation, and controlling potential secondary amine contaminants in nitrosation-sensitive downstream applications.
While nylon intermediates continue to define the major consumption of cyclohexanone, R&D also tracks the rise of niche functional polymers, solvents for specialty coatings, and high-purity grades for electronics and pharmaceutical syntheses. Technical teams are evaluating the adaptability of process routes to deliver grades suitable for these stringent markets, often with unique impurity control requirements and batch certification demands.
Control of process impurities such as benzene, phenol, and peroxides represents an ongoing technical challenge, as the presence of these can affect polymer color and long-term stability. In hydrogenation routes, suppression of aromatic residues remains critical, while in oxidation-based routes, focus shifts to peroxide management and minimization of unreacted cyclohexanol. Innovations in solid catalyst formulations and process automation platforms have allowed tighter parameter control and facilitated scale-up with fewer process interruptions. Production engineers continue to validate impurity profiles batch-to-batch, as even minor shifts can impact end-use acceptance.
The cyclohexanone market remains closely tied to the trends in polyamide and solvent demand, with upstream volatility playing a larger role than isolated supply factors. Internal teams closely monitor pricing signals from benzene and cyclohexane supply chains, linking these with projected capacity additions in Asian and Middle Eastern caprolactam units. Supply flexibility demands configuration of plants to switch between integrated and merchant sales, responding to shifts in downstream polymer margins.
Future process evolution centers around energy use optimization, increased catalyst longevity, and automated impurity segregation. Implementation of advanced DCS-controlled batch tracking has improved reproducibility. Movement toward closed-loop raw material and solvent recovery addresses both regulatory and efficiency targets, with the resulting operational data guiding future plant modifications and debottlenecking initiatives. Modular plant upgrades continue to be preferred in regions where process route flexibility is required to address distinct product grade needs.
Product stewardship requires ongoing evaluation of waste minimization and raw material conservation. In response to evolving environmental standards, process design teams have invested in closed-cycle solvent systems and reduced-effluent water handling. Sourcing for feedstocks now verifies traceability back to responsible producers, and some process pilots have tested partially bio-based cyclohexane input streams. These approaches are under technical review for long-term scale-up and commercial feasibility, with success metrics rooted in measurable reductions of emissions and process waste.
Direct support is provided by technical teams familiar with each production batch’s history and process route. Customers requiring grade reassessment, impurity disclosure, or process adjustment recommendations can access both raw analytical profiles and practical use-case data. Cross-departmental teams coordinate to provide tailored recommendations based on customer-specific process conditions and end-use requirements, especially for those operating under tight regulatory scrutiny or seeking to integrate new purification steps.
Process engineers collaborate with customer operations teams to achieve optimal solvent behavior, extraction efficiency, or polymerization outcomes. Assistance spans troubleshooting feedstock variability, recommending adjusted handling conditions, and reviewing impurity impacts in situ. For users converting to high-purity grades, support includes on-site advisory visits and documentation audits to help integrate the new product into legacy systems.
Feedback loops between customer quality teams and internal QC labs allow for rapid investigation and resolution of off-spec or non-conforming batches. All issues undergo root cause analysis with full disclosure of production logs and retained sample analysis. Ongoing supply agreements incorporate periodic review of technical criteria, ensuring that evolving market requirements receive prompt response from both technical and production departments. Contingency protocols support urgent logistic needs in the event of supply chain disruptions, providing documented assurance to all contractual partners.
Cyclohexanone production demands not only technical expertise but a manufacturing environment built for precision and scale. Operating reactors designed for selective oxidation of cyclohexane, we use proprietary catalysts and hold firm control over temperature and pressure conditions. The resulting cyclohexanone meets tight assay targets by GC and features minimal aldehyde or peroxide trace levels. Production capacity scales to support continuous runs, meeting the demands of downstream operations in caprolactam manufacture, solvent blending, and plasticizer synthesis.
The bulk of our cyclohexanone output heads directly into nylon precursor production, where quality impacts both polymer yield and color. Paint, coatings, and adhesive formulators rely on cyclohexanone as a stable, low-odor solvent that effectively dissolves resins and plastics. In agrochemical synthesis, it acts as a core building block. Each of these uses ties back to the consistency and purity of the delivered material. Any deviation in composition or water content can translate to process interruptions or costly purification steps downstream.
Every batch passes through in-line monitoring for key parameters then follows with lab-based GC, water content measurement by Karl Fischer, and impurity scans. We maintain documented control over raw materials and batch records from precursor cyclohexane to finished product. This detailed traceability minimizes risk of off-spec cyclohexanone entering customer supply chains. Our plant holds a track record for repeatability between lots, supporting product developers who need predictable process inputs.
We typically fill and seal cyclohexanone in UN-rated steel drums, ISO tank containers, or bulk tankers, based on customer plant needs. Loading areas on site operate under strict procedures to avoid contamination and ensure full closure integrity. Delivery capabilities extend to regional and global logistics, maintaining throughput to fiber plants, resin producers, and industrial blenders. Our shipping team collaborates closely with storage and handling teams for regulated chemical movement.
Our technical staff assists with process integration and troubleshooting, addressing questions on reactivity, solvent behavior, or compatibility in existing lines. With decades running our own units, we support scale-up trials, transition planning, and ongoing supply audits to minimize customer downtime. Data from ongoing production helps serve industrial labs optimizing formulations, solvent recovery units, and process safety assessments.
Direct interaction with our facility eliminates layers in the transaction, lowering total acquisition cost and tightening feedback between production and application. Consistent supply allows manufacturers and procurement teams to schedule confidently and coordinate inventory on a predictable basis. We collaborate with our customers to develop supply agreements and allocation models during planned maintenance or high-demand cycles, strengthening resilience against market volatility.
A plant environment built around the needs of large-scale chemical buyers requires more than manufacturing know-how; it demands ongoing investment in process control, logistics, and application support. Our facility stands as a partner to industrial and commercial buyers, delivering cyclohexanone that supports efficiency, compliance, and growth across critical applications. No trading intermediaries—just direct control from reactor to packaged product.
At our facilities, cyclohexanone plays a central role in a wide segment of the global chemical industry. Years of hands-on manufacturing experience have shown us just how much hinges on its purity and consistency for downstream applications. Few solvents and intermediates see such high-volume, high-reliability use as this colorless liquid. Every drum we ship must meet strict quality controls because customers count on it—whether they’re running reactors in an adipic acid plant or formulating specialty coatings or pharmaceuticals.
Our production runs operate to meet demand in several major application areas. Caprolactam and Adipic Acid Synthesis top the list: more than half the cyclohexanone leaving our gates is earmarked for these markets. In nylon-6 and nylon-66 manufacturing, even minor impurities can knock catalyst performance off-target and show up in the mechanical properties of the final polymer. Customers in this sector count on our process controls, from raw material screening through distillation and storage. Caprolactam production especially demands minimal water, low aldehyde content, and very tight peroxide control.
Beyond polyamide feedstocks, we serve Solvents for Pesticides and Paints. Cyclohexanone’s solvency for natural and synthetic resins makes it the backbone for many lacquer, varnish, and coating systems. Residual content that can generate odor or color, or that stubbornly lingers after application, draws complaints and can derail product launches for our customers. Industrial adhesives and sealants formulated for construction or automotive lines are another growing application, where purity translates straight into adhesion and surface finish consistency.
Pharmaceutical synthesis and laboratory intermediates round out our largest end-use markets. Here, quality assurance protocols are set to the highest standards. Any residue from byproducts or even trace stabilizer carryover can affect downstream reactions or regulatory acceptance. We keep comprehensive process documentation available for customer audits and regulatory reviews, providing details from batch sampling to impurity tracking.
Our typical technical grade cyclohexanone delivers a minimum assay of 99.8% by GC, with water content below 0.05%. We target low acidity, with total acid as acetic acid remaining well under 0.01%, and peroxide levels monitored at each fill. For grades destined for pharmaceutical synthesis or high-purity coatings work, we ramp up process controls, including closed transfers and oxygen-free handling, to limit peroxide formation and guarantee lot-to-lot reproducibility. GC and GC-MS allow us to monitor key byproducts or contaminants below parts-per-million levels, and our documentation trail allows us to trace every drum back to initial feedstocks.
Packing and logistics play a vital role in maintaining purity up to the point of use. We use specialized lined drums, intermediate bulk containers, and dedicated tank trucks for sensitive grades to avoid cross-contamination. Drum and tote cleaning protocols, plus careful atmospheric exclusion, protect product all along the delivery chain. If customers need specialized packaging, our technical team works one-on-one to develop solutions—whether it’s nitrogen blanketing, UV-resistant containers, or pre-shipment sampling for critical projects.
Cyclohexanone production routes pose their own set of technical challenges. Whether through cyclohexane oxidation or phenol hydrogenation, impurities arise that require careful downstream management. Continuous in-process analytics and multi-stage purification limit side products and unwanted residues. We invest in control systems and adaptive process improvements drawn from plant data and customer feedback. If industry regulation or end-use requirements change, we adapt recipes and verification protocols to comply. Open dialogue with our downstream partners provides clear expectations long before drum filling begins.
Operating as a direct manufacturer means accountability from sourcing through final shipment. The consistency and safety of our cyclohexanone directly impact multiple industrial operations worldwide. With strict protocols and full transparency, we stand behind every batch that leaves our line, supporting our customers’ critical processes with product that meets—or exceeds—the purity they rely on.
We’ve been manufacturing cyclohexanone for over two decades, seeing demand rise steadily as industrial processes evolve. When buyers ask about minimum order quantities or lead times, we draw not just from numbers on spreadsheets, but from actual throughput, raw material logistics, and plant scheduling.
Raw material sourcing, tank capacities, and batch sizes dictate what’s realistic in our production runs. For cyclohexanone, bulk orders mean quantities suitable for truck, ISO tank, or flexibag shipment. Our minimum order quantity typically aligns with one full truckload, which sits around 15-20 metric tons, depending on regional regulations and container specifications. Below that volume, logistics costs and handling do not make economic sense for either side. Shipping fractional loads in this industry always drives up the per-unit cost—not just due to packaging, but also from regulatory, documentation, and safety overhead.
Larger customers—those consuming multiple truckloads per month—sometimes work with us to schedule rolling deliveries or keep consignment stock at their sites. This kind of relationship often allows us both to hedge supply chain risks.
On-site storage capacity and year-round production lines generally let us dispatch standard quantities in about 7-10 working days after order agreement. For recurring partners, we can often shorten this window as we forecast demand and line up raw material supplies accordingly. Complicated scenarios arise if a client needs specific quality modifications, customized logistics, or special documentation; these requests can lengthen production workflow, sometimes adding another week to the lead time.
From a manufacturing perspective, core factors affecting lead time include: upstream raw material feedstock availability, scheduled maintenance intervals, regulatory inspections, and export licensing. For quantities above routine stock, or when markets experience supply chain shocks, surge orders during peak season could face extended dispatch dates. We always communicate projected timelines upfront so operational and procurement teams can plan accordingly.
From the manufacturer’s side, a clear policy on minimum order quantity helps keep unit costs controlled. We know the challenges downstream users face—interruptions in supply can freeze entire production lines, causing much larger economic loss than raw material price swings. By holding fast to our established MOQ, we keep production runs efficient and quality consistent. This supports both our schedules and customer reliability targets.
Clients often ask us to negotiate on quantity or timing. In special cases, long-term contracts or blanket orders allow greater flexibility. Our technical and commercial teams stay in close contact with procurement and logistics counterparts to refine deliveries. Transparency and routine dialogue remain critical, especially as the global chemical landscape changes.
During industry-wide raw material shortages or freight bottlenecks, we prioritize existing contractual partners and those whose production ties directly to essential infrastructure. Clear communication and honest forecasting are central. We hold to minimum volumes because splitting shipments below truckload scale adds complexity and cost, ultimately working against both manufacturer integrity and customer interests.
We back all minimum quantity and lead time commitments with robust process control, in-house quality assurance, and established supply chain partnerships. For sites planning new capacity or plant expansions, our technical team can provide process engineering input to optimize tank sizing and raw material flow—ensuring both production efficiency and safe, compliant handling of cyclohexanone at scale.
Cyclohexanone demands a disciplined approach during transit and storage. In our factories, we load and monitor each shipment in line with global standards, including UN ADR, IMDG Code, and IATA regulations. Compliance isn’t left to paperwork alone. Regular audits, staff training, container inspection, and maintenance happen before our drum or ISO tank leaves the facility. Consignment traceability and transport company vetting both play roles in preventing incidents, especially when sending to international customers.
Cyclohexanone falls under hazardous chemical regulations. On every drum or isotank leaving our production sites, we use GHS-consistent labels showing flame and health hazard pictograms. We ship it as a Class 3 Flammable Liquid. These designations trigger mandatory use of appropriate UN-approved packaging and restrict how much can travel in one container. Authorities inspect shipments at the port or customs checkpoint, and non-compliance can interrupt supply, or worse, raise safety risks.
Flammable liquid warehouses on our sites feature fire suppression systems, grounding, and spark-proof lighting. We provide chemical storage compatibility tables to each client on request. Cyclohexanone stays isolated from oxidizers, acids, and foodstuffs. All storage areas use effective ventilation, continuous leak monitoring, embankments for spill containment, and temperature control against heat and frost. These features track with NFPA, OSHA, REACH, and other region-specific laws.
Transportation depots en route get the same attention. As the manufacturer, we train drivers in defensive handling of cyclohexanone emergencies. Our loading crew uses splash-resistant gear and face shields, ensuring skin and eye exposure are rare in real shipment practice. Only certified vehicles and IMDG-code compliant vessels carry our cargo, with periodic emergency drills involving fire services and local authorities.
Every batch ships with a certificate of analysis, updated Safety Data Sheet, transport permit, and all necessary customs paperwork. In many regions, authorities ask for licensure confirming a qualified waste disposal plan for any damaged stock. Our logistics department maintains a digital log from factory gate to client acceptance, which supports batch-level recall if needed.
International standards and professional experience both show that the weakest link in transport safety involves human error or exceeded storage time. We focus on refresher training and a clear allocation of responsibilities among staff. We also collaborate on risk assessments with end users, aiming to lower downstream incidents. After every near-miss, our team reviews procedures and updates visual guides for site use in local languages.
We engage with local authorities and industry groups to stay informed on regulatory updates, as rules for chemical logistics keep evolving. Our technical team stands ready to advise customers on on-site storage modifications. Reliable and compliant transportation networks ultimately support safe, sustainable cyclohexanone supply for global partners, and we back those standards through daily production, packaging, and logistics controls.
For product inquiries, sample requests, quotations or after-sales support, please feel free to contact me directly via sales9@bouling-chem.com, +8615651039172 or WhatsApp: +8615651039172
