what is toluene used for
Toluene is used as a fuel additive to increase octane ratings and as a solvent in paints, paint thinners, adhesives, inks, resins, cleaning agents and inks. It is also used in the synthesis of many organic chemicals including benzene, phenol and xylene and as a raw material in the production of explosives. Toluene is used to manufacture polymers that are used to make nylon, plastic soda bottles, and polyurethanes and for pharmaceuticals, dyes and cosmetic products. Additionally, toluene has been used in the past as a treatment for hookworms and roundworms.