Cyclohexanone is a cyclic organic compound with the chemical formula C₆H₁₀O. It is a cyclic ketone and consists of a six-membered ring of six carbon atoms to which a carbonyl group (C=O) is attached. Cyclohexanone occurs as a colorless oily liquid with an odor similar to benzaldehyde (bitter almond odor).

Physical and chemical properties

Physical state: Colorless oily liquid
Odor: Similar to benzaldehyde (bitter almond)
Solubility: Soluble in water and also soluble in many organic solvents such as alcohols, ethers, and aromatic hydrocarbons.
Density: Less than water
Boiling point: 155.7 °C
Melting point: -31 °C
Flammability: Cyclohexanone vapors are flammable.
Production method
Cyclohexanone is produced industrially by the oxidation of cyclohexane in the presence of cobalt catalysts. In this process, cyclohexanol is also produced as a by-product. The mixture resulting from this reaction is known as KA oil (Ketone-Alcohol oil) and is used as a raw material for the production of adipic acid.

Applications of cyclohexanone

Chemical industry: Used as a raw material in the production of nylon, resins, paints, adhesives and solvents.
Solvent: Used as a solvent for paints, varnishes, resins and other organic materials.
Pharmaceutical production: Used in the synthesis of some pharmaceuticals.
Textile industry: Used as a solvent in dyeing and printing processes.