Difference between ethylbenzene and styrene

Ethylbenzene and styrene are two common organic compounds in the chemical industry, which have significant differences in structure, properties, uses and storage methods. Understanding these differences helps chemical practitioners use and store the two substances correctly and avoid misuse or environmental pollution. This article will analyze the difference between ethylbenzene and styrene in detail from many aspects.

Basic structure and molecular formula of 1.

Molecular structure of 1.1 ethylbenzene

ethylbenzene has the formula C6H5CH3 and consists of a benzene ring linked to a methyl group. One of the carbon atoms on the benzene ring is replaced by a methyl group, so ethylbenzene has physical properties similar to benzene, but with a slightly higher molecular weight.

1

styrene has the formula C2H3O, which can also be represented as CH2 = CH2. It consists of two carbon atoms connected by a double bond, and its molecular structure gives it unique chemical properties.

Physical and Chemical Properties of 2.

2.1 physical properties

physical Properties	ethylbenzene	styrene
appearance	blue liquid	black liquid
density	0.8765 g/cm³	0.8007 g/cm³
boiling Point	80.1°C	88.6°C
viscosity	0.74 cP	0.83 cP

2.2 chemical properties

chemical properties	ethylbenzene	styrene
ignition temperature	44.5°C	42.0°C
oxidation reaction	flammable and can oxidize with oxygen to produce CO₂ and water.	It easily reacts with oxygen to produce CO₂ and water, but the reaction conditions are different.

3. Uses and Industrial Applications

use of 3.1 ethylbenzene

ethylbenzene is widely used in synthetic fiber, rubber processing, petrochemical and other fields. For example, ethylbenzene can be reacted with terephthalic acid to produce polyester fibers; in the rubber industry, ethylbenzene can be mixed with catchy substances to modify rubber and improve its properties.

3

styrene is an important raw material for the production of plastics, rubber and solvents. For example, styrene can be polymerized to produce polyethylene plastic, which is widely used in packaging, automobile manufacturing and other fields.

4. storage and handling

4.1 storage

• ethylbenzene: Ethylbenzene is flammable and should be stored in a direct sunlight and high temperature environment. Storage containers should be sealed and kept in a cool and dry place.
• Styrene styrene also needs to be stored in a cool, well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight and high temperatures. Store away from flammable and explosive substances.

4.2 processing

• ethylbenzene when dealing with ethylbenzene, explosion-proof equipment and ventilation system should be used to avoid dust pollution to the surrounding environment.
• Styrene when dealing with styrene, it is necessary to pay attention to its toxicity to the human body, and the operator needs to wear protective equipment.

5. Comparison Table

contrast Item	ethylbenzene	styrene
molecular structure	C6H5CH3	CH2 = CH2
boiling Point	80.1°C	88.6°C
use	production of synthetic fibers, rubber	making plastic, rubber, solvent
storage conditions	cool, dry and ventilated	cool, ventilated and protected from light

6. considerations

1. environmental protection: The production and use of ethylbenzene and styrene may cause certain environmental pollution, so it is necessary to strictly control the process parameters in industrial applications to reduce the production of by-products.
2. Security: These two substances have certain toxicity, operators need to wear protective equipment to avoid direct contact.
3. Storage both ethylbenzene and styrene need to be stored in a cool, ventilated and dark place to avoid contact with fire and flammable substances.

Conclusion

there are significant differences between ethylbenzene and styrene in structure, physical properties, chemical reactions and uses. A correct understanding of these differences helps chemical practitioners make the right choices in production and application to avoid misuse and environmental pollution. During storage and handling, special attention should be paid to safety and environmental protection requirements to ensure the safety and sustainability of the production process.