Ethylbenzene is an
organic compound with the formula C
8H
10. It is a highly flammable, colorless liquid with an odor similar to that of
gasoline. This monocyclic
aromatic hydrocarbon is important in the
petrochemical industry as an intermediate in the production of
styrene, the precursor to
polystyrene, a common
plastic material. In 2012, more than 99% of ethylbenzene produced was consumed in the production of styrene. Ethylbenzene is also used to make other chemicals, in fuel, and as a
solvent in inks, rubber adhesives, varnishes, and paints. Ethylbenzene exposure can be determined by testing for the breakdown products in
urine.