Colorless transparent liquid with a strong aromatic odor. The relative density is 0.8684, (d20)o．8642。 Melting point -47 872 ℃. Boiling point 139.1 ℃. Refractive index 1.4972, (, z) 1 4971. Flash point 29.44 ℃. Spontaneous combustion point 527.78 ℃. Insoluble in water, soluble in ethanol and ether.

Mainly used as a solvent in the production of isophthalic acid, meta methylbenzoic acid, meta benzonitrile, etc. It can also be used as a raw material and dye intermediate for oil soluble colorants in pharmaceuticals, spices, and color film.