Phenol is the simplest member of a class of organic compounds possessing a hydroxyl group attached to a benzene ring or to a more complex aromatic ring system.
Also known as carbolic acid or monohydroxybenzene, phenol is a colorless to white crystalline material of sweet odor, having the composition C6H5 OH, obtained from the distillation of coal tar and as a by-product of coke ovens.
Phenol has broad biocidal properties, and dilute aqueous solutions have long been used as an antiseptic. At higher concentrations it causes severe skin burns; it is a violent systemic poison. It is a valuable chemical raw material for the production of plastics, dyes, pharmaceuticals, syntans, and other products.
Properties
Phenol melts at about 43°C and boils at 183°C. The pure grades have melting points of 39, 39.5, and 40°C. The technical grades contain 82 to 84% and 90 to 92% phenol. The crystallization point is given as 40.41°C. The specific gravity is 1.066. It dissolves in most organic solvents. By melting the crystals and adding water, liquid phenol is produced, which remains liquid at ordinary temperatures. Phenol has the unusual property of penetrating living tissues and forming a valuable antiseptic. It is also used industrially in cutting oils and compounds and in tanneries. The value of other disinfectants and antiseptics is usually measured by comparison with phenol.
Uses and Derivatives
Phenol is one of the most versatile industrial organic chemicals. It is the starting point for many diverse products used in the home and industry. A partial list includes nylon, epoxy resins, surface active agents, synthetic detergents, plasticizers, antioxidants, lube oil additives, phenolic resins (with formaldehyde, furfural, and so on), cyclohexanol, adipic acid, polyurethanes, aspirin, dyes, wood preservatives, herbicides, drugs, fungicides, gasoline additives, inhibitors, explosives, and pesticides.
