Benzyl alcohol is an aromatic alcohol with the formula C6H5CH2OH. It is a colorless liquid with a mild pleasant aromatic odor. It is a useful as a solvent for its polarity, low toxicity, and low vapor pressure. Benzyl alcohol has moderate solubility in water (4 g/100 mL) and is miscible in alcohols and diethyl ether.
Benzyl alcohol is used in a variety of applications, including:
- Solvent: Benzyl alcohol is a common solvent in the perfume, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries. It is also used as a solvent in the production of other chemicals, such as plastics and resins.
- Antiseptic: Benzyl alcohol has mild antiseptic properties and is used in some topical products, such as skin creams and lotions.
- Preservative: Benzyl alcohol is a preservative that is used to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in a variety of products, such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food.
- Flavoring agent: Benzyl alcohol has a mild pleasant odor and is used as a flavoring agent in some foods and beverages.
- Fragrance: Benzyl alcohol is a common ingredient in perfumes and other fragrances.
Benzyl alcohol is considered to be a low-toxicity chemical, but it can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people. It is also a mild central nervous system depressant and can cause drowsiness and headaches in high doses.
Here are some other names for benzyl alcohol:
- α-Cresol
- Phenylmethanol
- Hydroxytoluene
- Phenylcarbinol
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