Benzyl Alcohol (C7H8O)

Description

Why Buy Benzyl Alcohol (C7H8O) Online from UK Chemical Suppliers, ReAgent Chemicals?

We supply benzyl alcohol in 2.5L and 25L containers as well as 20 L drums. Discounts are available for purchases over 4 items. ReAgent has built a reputation of 30 years as a chemical supplier for Quality Assured products, exceptional customer service and competitive prices.

Aromatic alcohol

Benzyl alcohol, C6H5CH2OH, forms an aromatic alcohol, which is simply an aromatic benzene ring (Bn) with an alcohol group attached (it’s sometimes referred to as BnOH). It can also be called phenylmethyl alcohol and benzenecarbinol. This alcohol forms a colourless liquid with a pleasant aroma, but a sharp burning taste. Due to its polarity and low toxicity, it’s a very useful solvent. It’s also miscible with water, benzene, methanol, chloroform, ethanol, ether, and acetone.

Natural occurrence and mode of preparation

Benzyl alcohol occurs naturally in many different plants, particularly in fruits. In terms of preparation, the traditional method involves hydrolysis of benzyl chloride (C6H5CH2Cl) in the presence of sodium hydroxide (NaOH). Alternatively, it can also be prepared by a reaction with phenylmagnesium bromide (C6H5MgBr) and formaldehyde (CH2O).

Wide range of applications

The most common use is as a solvent in paints, lacquers and resin coatings. Benzyl alcohol is also used in the production of soap and perfume, via an esterification reaction. As a bacteriostatic, it’s a common ingredient in intravenous medical solutions as a preservative and other medical applications include its use for the treatment of head lice in children older than 6 months.

Accreditation

ReAgent has accreditation to various Quality and Environmental awards recognised internationally, including ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management System and ISO 14001:2004 Environmental Management System and Investors in People (IIP). All our products come with a 100% quality guarantee, to ensure that you can buy benzyl alcohol with complete confidence. Simply call us for a quote or technical question.