Introduction

PHENOL CAS No.108-95-2, PHENOL is a versatile organic compound with a significant role in various industries.  for its disinfectant properties, can used in plastics, pharmaceuticals, and even household cleaning products. Let’s take a closer look.

What is Phenol CAS No.108-95-2?

An organic compound, phenol has a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to a benzene ring.

Molecular Formula and Structure

The molecular formula of phenol is C₆H₅OH, which combines six carbon atoms, six hydrogen atoms, and one oxygen atom. This structure contributes to phenol’s distinct acidic and reactive properties.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Phenol appears as a white crystalline solid or colorless liquid. It has a slightly sweet odor and is highly soluble in organic solvents.

Extraction from Natural Sources

Coal tar and wood can yield phenol through extraction. 

PHENOL Industrial Production Methods

Today, industries primarily synthesize phenol through processes like the cumene process, which combines benzene and propylene. 

USAGE

Phenol, a versatile organic compound, has widespread applications across numerous industries due to its antiseptic, solvent, and chemical properties. With the formula C₆H₅OH, phenol’s structure contains a hydroxyl group attached to a benzene ring, making it highly reactive and suitable for various chemical processes. Here’s an overview of its primary uses.

One of the most notable applications of phenol is in the production of plastics, particularly in manufacturing resins like bisphenol A (BPA), which is a precursor for producing polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. These materials are found in everything from food containers and water bottles to automotive parts and electronics. Phenolic resins, another important category, are used in laminates, adhesives, and insulation materials due to their durability and heat-resistant properties.

In the medical field, phenol serves as both an antiseptic and anesthetic. It has a historical role in surgery and wound disinfection, but its usage is now more regulated due to potential toxicity. Low-concentration phenol solutions are still applied in products like throat sprays and lozenges for their numbing effect.

Phenol also plays a crucial role in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and other chemicals. It’s a starting material in the production of aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) and various drugs, pesticides, and herbicides. Furthermore, phenol is used in research labs as a reagent in molecular biology protocols, particularly in DNA and RNA extraction due to its ability to break down proteins and separate nucleic acids.

Environmental and safety concerns are associate with phenol, as it is both toxic and corrosive, demanding careful handling and disposal. However, its unique properties ensure phenol’s continued demand in industrial applications, making it a key player in multiple manufacturing processes and scientific research.

Respiratory and Inhalation Risks

Inhaling phenol fumes can irritate the respiratory system, potentially leading to coughing, throat pain, and, in high exposures, respiratory issues.

PHENOL CAS No.108-95-2 Conclusion

Phenol is an essential compound across numerous industries, from healthcare and cosmetics to plastics and agriculture.