Phenol

Description

Phenol is identified by CAS 108-95-2, molecular formula C6H6O and molecular weight 94.04 g/mol. UNII 339NCG44TV; ChEBI 15882; InChIKey ISWSIDIOOBJBQZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N. Boiling Point: 360 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992); Boiling Point: 359 °F at 760 mmHg (NIOSH, 2024); Boiling Point: 359.1 °F at 760 mmHg (EPA, 1998).

Identification

Computed Descriptors

Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical description & handling notes

• Phenol solution, [aqueous] is a white crystalline mass dissolved in an aqueous solution. Solution may be colorless to slightly pink in color with a distinctive phenol odor; sharp burning taste. Aqueous solution will be acidic and act as such. Toxic by ingestion, inhalation and skin absorption; strong irritant to tissues.
• Phenol, molten is the white crystalline solid shipped at an elevated temperature to form a semi-solid. It is very hot and may cause burns from contact and also may cause the ignition of combustible materials. It is toxic by ingestion, and inhalation of its fumes, and skin absorption. It may also be very irritating to skin and eyes. It is used to make other chemicals.
• Phenol, solid appears as a solid melting at 110 °F. Colorless if pure, otherwise pink or red. Flash point 175 °F. Density 9.9 lb / gal. Vapors are heavier than air Corrosive to the skin (turning skin white) but because of its anesthetic quality numbs rather than burn. Lethal amounts can be absorbed through the skin. Used to make plastics and adhesives.
• Dry Powder; Liquid; Large Crystals; Gas Vapor; Liquid; CBI
• Colorless to light-pink, crystalline solid with a sweet, acrid odor. [Note: Phenol liquefies by mixing with about 8% water.] [NIOSH] Pure form is liquefied by water absorbed from the air; [CPS&Q: RARs – Final Report]
• Solid

Regulatory Status

GHS Hazard Classification

Documented Uses

• The primary use of phenol is in the production of phenolic resins, which are used in the plywood, construction, automotive, and appliance industries. Other uses of phenol include as a slimicide, as a disinfectant, and in medicinal products such as ear and nose drops, throat lozenges, and mouthwashes.
• Molding and Core Making [Category: Foundry]
• Painting (Pigments, Binders, and Biocides) [Category: Paint]
• Working with Glues and Adhesives [Category: Other]
• Using Disinfectants or Biocides [Category: Clean]
• Burning Synthetic Polymers [Category: Burn]

Synonyms

phenol; 108-95-2; carbolic acid; Hydroxybenzene; Phenic acid; Oxybenzene; Benzenol; Phenylic acid; Phenylic alcohol; Monophenol; Phenyl hydrate; Phenyl hydroxide; PhOH; Monohydroxybenzene; Paoscle; Izal

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the CAS number and molecular formula of Phenol?

CAS 108-95-2; molecular formula C6H6O; molecular weight 94.04 g/mol.

What other names is Phenol known by?

phenol, 108-95-2, carbolic acid, Hydroxybenzene, Phenic acid, Oxybenzene.

What is the regulatory status of Phenol?

Documented regulatory listings: EU Flavoring substances; FDA Substance added to food: FLAVORING AGENT OR ADJUVANT; FDA Inventory of Food Contact Substances Listed in 21 CFR: FCS.

Is Phenol classified as hazardous?

0.1% of GHS notifications report no hazard classification (1 of 4205).

What are the key physical properties of Phenol?

Boiling Point: 360 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992); Boiling Point: 359 °F at 760 mmHg (NIOSH, 2024); Boiling Point: 359.1 °F at 760 mmHg (EPA, 1998); Boiling Point: 181.8.

Facts on this page are taken from PubChem (US National Library of Medicine) and Wikidata. Grade-specific data — assay, moisture, particle size, packaging, shelf life — is issued per batch on the COA and is not published here.

Email us for price, COA and specification