Phenol

Phenol is an aromatic organic compound that appears as a colorless to pale pink crystalline solid with a distinct, sweet odor. It is mildly acidic and known for its antiseptic, disinfectant, and chemical reactivity properties. In laboratory and pharmaceutical contexts, it is used both as a reagent and an active ingredient.

🏭⚗️ Production
Phenol is industrially produced mainly through the cumene process, where cumene is oxidized to cumene hydroperoxide and then cleaved to yield phenol and acetone. Alternative methods include the chlorobenzene hydrolysis route and the oxidation of toluene. Laboratory-grade phenol is purified through distillation or recrystallization.

🔬 Properties
Phenol has the chemical formula C₆H₅OH and a molar mass of 94.11 g/mol. It is slightly soluble in water and more soluble in organic solvents. It melts at around 40–43 °C and boils at approximately 181–183 °C. It is corrosive, weakly acidic, and forms phenoxide ions in basic solutions. Phenol readily undergoes electrophilic aromatic substitution and oxidation reactions.

🧪 Applications
Phenol is widely used in laboratories as a reagent for protein denaturation and nucleic acid extraction. In pharmaceuticals, it serves as a disinfectant, antiseptic, and local anesthetic in low concentrations. It is also used in the synthesis of drugs, dyes, resins, and plastic precursors. Its antimicrobial properties make it useful in throat sprays and topical solutions.

⚠️ Safety
Phenol is toxic and corrosive, especially in concentrated form. It can be absorbed through the skin, causing chemical burns and systemic toxicity. Inhalation or ingestion can lead to serious health effects. Handling requires gloves, eye protection, and good ventilation. In pharmaceutical applications, only carefully controlled, diluted forms are used to ensure safety.