2-Phenoxyethanol
[CAS 122-99-6]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Synthetic anti-infective drugs >> Disinfectant antiseptic
• Name: 2-Phenoxyethanol
• Synonyms: Ethylene glycol monophenyl ether
• Molecular Formula: C₈H₁₀O₂
• Molecular Weight: 138.16
• CAS Registry Number: 122-99-6
• EC Number: 204-589-7
• SMILES: C1=CC=C(C=C1)OCCO

Properties

• Density: 1.102
• Melting point: 11-13 °C
• Boiling point: 237 °C
• Refractive index: 1.536-1.54
• Flash point: 130 °C
• Water solubility: 30 g/L (20 °C)

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS05;GHS07 Danger
• Risk Statements: H302-H335-H318
• Safety Statements: P501-P261-P270-P271-P264-P280-P301+P312+P330-P304+P340+P312-P305+P351+P338+P310-P403+P233-P405

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Flammable liquids	Flam. Liq.	3	H226
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2A	H319
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361
Germ cell mutagenicity	Muta.	2	H341
Carcinogenicity	Carc.	2	H351

Discovery and Applications

2-Phenoxyethanol is a glycol ether and aromatic alcohol that was first synthesized in the early 20th century. The compound has the molecular formula C8H10O2 and features a benzene ring attached to an ethylene glycol chain. Its discovery stemmed from efforts to create a more effective preservative due to its antimicrobial properties and relatively low toxicity compared to other substances available at the time.

2-Phenoxyethanol (C8H10O2) is made up of a phenyl group (C6H5) bonded to an ethoxy group (CH2CH2OH). It is a colorless, slightly viscous liquid with a light floral scent and is soluble in water, alcohol, and ether. These properties make it a versatile compound for a variety of applications, from industrial to cosmetic and pharmaceutical.

One of the main uses of 2-phenoxyethanol is as a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products. It is effective against a wide range of bacteria, yeasts, and molds, helping to extend the shelf life of products such as lotions, creams, sunscreens, and shampoos. It is particularly useful in formulations that require a low-toxicity preservative to ensure safe use by consumers.

In the pharmaceutical industry, 2-phenoxyethanol is used as a preservative in vaccines and other injectable medications. It prevents microbial contamination and maintains the sterility of the formulation, ensuring its safety and effectiveness. It is also notable as a preservative in ophthalmic solutions, such as eye drops, as it helps maintain the integrity of the product over time.

Due to its antimicrobial properties, 2-phenoxyethanol is used in preservative formulations and disinfectant products. It is effective in eliminating a wide range of pathogens, making it suitable for use in medical settings, laboratories, and homes. Its relatively low toxicity compared to other preservatives makes it a safer alternative for everyday use.

2-phenoxyethanol is used as a solvent in a variety of industrial applications, including the production of dyes, inks, and resins. Its ability to dissolve a wide range of chemicals makes it useful in manufacturing processes that require effective solvent action. It is also used in the formulation of cleaning products due to its ability to effectively break down grease and dirt.

In the fragrance industry, 2-phenoxyethanol is used as a fixative. It helps stabilize volatile compounds in perfumes and fragrances, allowing them to last longer on the skin or in the air. Its mild floral scent also helps enhance the overall aroma of perfume products.

References

2024. Biostimulation methods based on chemical communication improve semen quality in male breeder rabbits. Theriogenology, 231.
DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.09.016

2024. Influence of biphasic phenoxyethanol-alkaline pretreatment on the correlation between inter-structure and enzymatic hydrolysis in bamboo residues. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 284.
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.136859

2024. Development of flexible glucose biosensor for fish stress monitoring. Fisheries Science, 90(6).
DOI: 10.1007/s12562-024-01828-4