3-Hexanone
3-Hexanone (CAS: 589-38-8), a ketone with the linear formula CH3CH2CH2COC2H5, is a clear liquid with a molecular weight of 100.16 g/mol. This organic compound, also known as ethyl propyl ketone, is primarily utilised in chemical synthesis as a building block. Its applications span scientific research, including studies on volatile organic compound determination and microbial inhibition.
- IUPAC
- Ethyl propyl ketone
- Synonyms
- Ethyl propyl ketone

Chemical Synthesis Building Block
3-Hexanone serves as a versatile building block in organic synthesis. Its ketone functionality allows for a range of chemical transformations, making it valuable for creating more complex molecules.
Analytical Chemistry Research
This compound has been employed as a test species in studies for the quantitative determination of volatile organic compounds using techniques such as chemical ionization reaction mass spectrometry.
Material Properties Studies
3-Hexanone has been used in research to determine Henry's law coefficients, employing methods like equilibrium partitioning in closed systems combined with solid-phase microextraction.
Microbial Inhibition Studies
Investigations into the inhibitory effects of various ketones have included the use of 3-Hexanone to assess its activity against Clostridium Botulinum spores and cells.
| Molecular weight | 100.16 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | CH3CH2CH2COC2H5 |
| Assay | 98% |
| Boiling point | 123 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 0.815 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.400(lit.) |
| Application | 3-Hexanone was used in a study to determine Henry′s law coefficients by combination of the equilibrium partitioning in closed systems technique in combination with solid-phase microextraction1. It was used as test species in a study for quantitative determination of volatile organic compounds by chemical ionization reaction mass spectrometry2. It was used to study the inhibitory activity of some aromatic and aliphatic ketones against Clostridium Botulinum spores and cells3. |


Hazard statements
- H226Flammable liquid and vapour
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 23 °C / 73.4 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 1224C 3 / PGIII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 10-36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is 3-Hexanone used for?
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3-Hexanone is used as a building block in chemical synthesis and in various scientific research applications, including analytical chemistry and studies on microbial inhibition.
What are the CAS number and formula for 3-Hexanone?
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The CAS number for 3-Hexanone is 589-38-8, and its linear formula is CH3CH2CH2COC2H5.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies 3-Hexanone with an assay of 98%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, EP, or pharmacopoeia grade.
How should 3-Hexanone be handled safely?
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3-Hexanone is a flammable liquid and vapour (H226) and can cause skin irritation (H315), serious eye irritation (H319), and respiratory irritation (H335). Handle with appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields, gloves, and suitable respiratory protection.
Is 3-Hexanone a controlled substance?
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The provided data does not indicate that 3-Hexanone is a controlled substance.
How is 3-Hexanone packed and shipped?
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3-Hexanone is classified as UN 1224C 3 / PGIII for transport. TSS exports chemicals globally in compliance with all relevant regulations.
How can I request a quote or sample of 3-Hexanone?
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Please contact our sales team via the website to request a quote or a sample of 3-Hexanone.
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