Phenol
Carbolic Acid, Phenic Acid, PhOH.
- CAS
- 108-95-2
- EC
- 203-632-7
- Sectors
- Plastics & Polymers, Pharma & Healthcare
Phenol (CAS 108-95-2) is a high-purity aromatic organic compound supplied in Pharma Grade and Technical Grade, a faintly yellow liquid that serves as a foundational building block for phenolic resins, polycarbonates and pharmaceuticals and as a surgical antiseptic and disinfectant. This white crystalline solid (melting into a clear liquid at 41°C) possesses a characteristic medicinal odor. It is highly reactive, facilitating the production of Bisphenol A, caprolactam, and high-performance adhesives used in the construction and automotive sectors. In the medical field, Phenol serves as an antiseptic and disinfectant , as well as an intermediate in the production of aspirin. Its immense chemical versatility makes it one of the most important commodities in the industrial chemical supply chain.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C6H6O |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 94.11 g/mol |
| Form | liquid |
| Color | faintly yellow |
| Odor | Sweet, medicinal odor detectable at 0.06 ppm |
| Melting point | 40.91 °C |
| Boiling point | 181.75 °C @ Press: 760.0 Torr |
| Density | 1.071 g/cm³ |
| Water solubility | 8 g/100 mL |
| Flash point | 175 °F |
| pH | 3.0-6.0 (25°C, 0.5M in H2O) |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Corrosive, Acute toxicity, Irritant / harmful, Health hazard, Environmental hazard |
| HS code | 29071100 |
| Grades available | Pharma Grade, Technical Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Phenol
Applications
- Resin Manufacturing: Primary raw material for Phenol-Formaldehyde (PF) resins used in wood adhesives and molded plastics.
- Chemical Intermediate: Used to synthesize Bisphenol A (BPA), adipic acid, and various herbicides/fungicides.
- Pharma & Medical: Employed as a surgical antiseptic and as a precursor for various over-the-counter and prescription drugs.
Safety & Risks
Classified as Acute Tox 3 (All routes) and Skin Corr 1B. Highly toxic and corrosive; requires Full Chemical Suits, Full-Face Respirators, and Viton Gloves.
Packaging
200 kg Steel Drums, 1000 kg IBC Tanks, or heated Bulk Tankers.