Phenol CAS 108-95-2

Phenol (Carbolic Acid) – Key Industrial Chemical and Organic Intermediate

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 108-95-2

• Molecular Formula: C₆H₆O (or C₆H₅OH)

• Molecular Weight: 94.11 g/mol

• Synonyms: Carbolic acid, hydroxybenzene, phenic acid

• Appearance: Colorless crystals below 40°C; colorless liquid above (may turn pinkish on oxidation)

• Odor: Sharp, characteristic phenolic, unpleasant

• Melting Point: ~40–41°C

• Boiling Point: ~181–182°C

• Flash Point: ~79°C

• Density: ~1.07 g/cm³ at 20°C

• Solubility: Miscible with water at elevated temperatures; soluble in ethanol, ether, acetone, and most organic solvents

• Stability: Oxidizes on air, may darken; store in airtight containers away from heat and oxidizers.

Overview
Phenol is the simplest aromatic alcohol, containing a hydroxyl group directly attached to a benzene ring. It is a fundamental building block in the chemical industry, serving as a precursor to a wide range of materials, including plastics, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. Despite its toxicity, its unique reactivity makes it indispensable.

Applications

• Plastics and resins: Primary raw material for phenol‑formaldehyde resins (Bakelite), epoxy resins, and polycarbonates (via bisphenol A).

• Chemical intermediates: Used in the production of caprolactam (for nylon), alkylphenols, plasticizers, and antioxidants.

• Pharmaceuticals: Intermediate for aspirin, paracetamol, and other drugs.

• Laboratory reagent: Employed in phenol‑chloroform extraction for nucleic acid purification.

• Antiseptics: Historically used as a disinfectant (carbolic acid), but use is now limited due to toxicity.

Safety and Toxicology

• Phenol is highly toxic and corrosive. It causes severe chemical burns on skin contact and is rapidly absorbed, leading to systemic poisoning.

• Inhalation of vapors can damage the nervous system and respiratory tract.

• Always handle in a fume hood with appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, goggles, protective clothing).

• In case of skin contact, wash immediately with large amounts of water; do not use alcohol or organic solvents.

• Store in a cool, dry, well‑ventilated area, away from strong oxidizers and heat sources.

• Emergency procedures: In case of fire, use foam, CO₂, or dry chemical; water may be ineffective.

Packaging
Available in various container sizes (e.g., 1 L, 5 L, 25 L, 200 L drums) and custom packaging upon request.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity (by GC), water content, and color to ensure consistent quality for industrial and laboratory use.