UNSPSC 12352006: Toluene

A mono-substituted benzene derivative, i.e., one in which a single hydrogen atom from a group of six atoms from the benzene molecule has been replaced by a univalent group, in this case CH3. As such, its IUPAC systematic name is methylbenzene. It is an aromatic hydrocarbon that is widely used as an industrial feedstock and as a solvent. Like other solvents, toluene is sometimes also used as an inhalant drug for its intoxicating properties; however, inhaling toluene has potential to cause severe neurological harm.

Toluene is an important organic solvent, but is also capable of dissolving a number of notable inorganic chemicals such as sulfur, iodine, bromine, phosphorus, and other non-polar covalent substances.

UNSPSC 12352006 Toluene is a Commodity code that encompasses industrial chemical solvents and their derivatives used in manufacturing, treatment, and facility operations. State and local governments procure toluene primarily for water and wastewater treatment systems, environmental remediation, and facility maintenance applications. The recent solicitation activity shows that this code captures equipment and chemical-system procurement where toluene or toluene-based processes are integral to the work scope, though actual chemical-supply contracts under the code likely represent a smaller fraction of total water-utility procurement. Issuing bodies soliciting under this code include municipal wastewater authorities and city engineering departments managing capital environmental-treatment projects.

The City of Orem, Utah posted a representative opportunity (Solicitation PROJECTNO230904, due October 16, 2026) to procure a complete Phosphorus Control System for its Water Reclamation Facility via the State of Utah's BonFire portal. The RFP calls for design, manufacture, delivery, and technical support of an integrated struvite-precipitation system treating anaerobically digested sludge, with the selected supplier furnishing process equipment, pumps, tanks, chemical feed systems, instrumentation, and controls. The project is federally funded through an EPA grant and subject to Build America and Buy America Act compliance. The scope extends to factory testing, installation support, commissioning, operator training, documentation, and one-year warranty, with delivery required within six months of Notice of Award and liquidated damages of $1,000 per day for delays. Recent activity under this code is limited, with the Orem facility project representing a significant municipal wastewater-infrastructure award opportunity concentrated in the Mountain West region.