1,4-dioxane

1,4 Dioxane is also known as Dioxane. Dioxane is known to have 3 isomers namely i) 1,2 Dioxane
( o- Dioxane) ii) 1,3 Dioxane ( m – Dioxane) iii) 1, 4 Dioxane ( p- Dioxane).
1, 4 Dioxane is a colorless liquid having Mol formula C₄ H₈ O₂. , Mol wt. 88.11g/mol. It is a solvent, hygroscopic in nature , soluble in water and usual solvents . It has a pleasant odor like that of Diethyl ether ,density 1.033g/ ml , boiling point 101.1°C.
The vapors of 1,4 dioxane are very harmful. Over exposure must be avoided as it causes drowsiness, headache, nausea , vomiting , irritation to eyes , skin , nose and throat.
It is synthesized from Diethylene Glycol by its dehydration with an acid which acts as a catalyst.
It finds its applications as a Stabilizer in Chlorinated solvents and also as a Solvent for cellulose acetate , ethyl cellulose, benzyl cellulose, resins and in many other organic and some inorganic compounds .