Toluene is a clear, colourless liquid with a benzene-like odour. It is a FLAMMABLE LIQUID AND VAPOUR. The liquid can accumulate static charge by flow or agitation. The vapour is heavier than air and may spread long distances and distant ignition and flashback are possible. Liquid can float on water and may travel to distant locations and/or spread fire. Toluene can decompose at high temperatures forming toxic gases. Closed containers may rupture and explode in heat of fire. Toluene is harmful if inhaled or swallowed and is a central nervous system depressant. The vapour may cause headache, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, confusion and incoordination. Toluene causes skin and eye irritation. It is an aspiration hazard and swallowing or vomiting of the liquid may result in aspiration into the lungs.

Toluene is used to make chemicals (e.g., benzene, toluene diisocyanate, benzoic acid), explosives, dyes and many other compounds. Used as a solvent for inks, paints, lacquers, resins, cleaners, glues and adhesives. Found in gasoline and aviation fuel.

Some grades of toluene contain traces of xylene and benzene. See Chemical profile records for xylene (mixed isomers) and benzene for additional information, if applicable.

Toluene is also known as methylbenzene, methylbenzol, phenylmethane, and toluène.

Its CAS Registry Number is 108-88-3. This number is assigned by the Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) in the United States and is used as a unique identifier number world-wide.