Benzyl alcohol

Benzyl Alcohol is an aromatic compound with a primary alcohol structure that occurs naturally in some essential oils such as jasmine and cinnamon oil, but is mostly produced synthetically.
Due to the presence of both a hydroxyl functional group (–OH) and a benzene ring, it exhibits solvent, bactericidal, and stabilizing properties. It is widely used across pharmaceutical, cosmetic–personal care, paint, coating, and detergent industries.

Chemical Structure of Benzyl Alcohol

• Basic structure: An aromatic ring (C₆H₅) attached to a CH₂OH group — essentially benzene + methylene + alcohol.

• Molecular formula: C₇H₈O

• Molecular weight: 108.14 g/mol

• Other names: Phenylmethanol, Benzenemethanol

• Structural nature: An aromatic alcohol with moderate polarity, capable of forming weak hydrogen bonds and dissolving a wide range of polar and non-polar substances.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Functional Properties

• Polar organic solvent: Effectively dissolves resins, essential oils, dyes, and pharmaceuticals.

• Antimicrobial: Exhibits preservative and antibacterial activity at specific concentrations.

• Skin compatibility: Mild and relatively non-irritating at controlled levels.

• Biodegradability: Rapidly biodegradable according to OECD guidelines.

Applications of Benzyl Alcohol

1. Pharmaceutical Industry

• Used as a preservative in injectable formulations (e.g., lidocaine injections).

• Serves as a solvent for poorly water-soluble active ingredients.

• Approved and listed in USP, EP, and JP pharmacopeias.

2. Cosmetics and Personal Care

• Functions as a mild preservative in creams, lotions, shampoos, and skin cleansers.

• Enhances solubility of fragrances and essential oils.

• Used in deodorants and antiperspirant formulations.

3. Paints and Coatings

• Acts as a solvent in resin-based paints, inks, and lacquers.

• Controls viscosity and improves film uniformity and surface appearance during drying.

4. Detergents and Industrial Cleaners

• Used as a co-solvent in multi-purpose cleaning formulations.

• Aids in the dissolution of oils, greases, and industrial residues.

5. Specialized Industrial Applications

• Intermediate in the production of alkyd and polyurethane resins.

• Used as a stabilizer in photographic chemicals.

• Serves as a solvent softener in textile and leather processing.

Advantages of Benzyl Alcohol

• Multi-functional solvent for cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial formulations.

• Biodegradable and relatively safe at permitted concentrations.

• Provides mild antibacterial protection without requiring stronger preservatives.

• Compatible with a wide range of solvents and active ingredients.

Disadvantages of Benzyl Alcohol

• Irritating to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract at high concentrations.

• Prolonged or repeated contact may cause dryness or allergic reactions.

• At high doses (oral or injectable), exhibits neurotoxic effects (according to FDA and WHO data).

Safety and Handling Information

• Chemical name: Benzyl Alcohol

• Chemical formula: C₆H₅CH₂OH

• CAS number: 100-51-6

Hazard Information

Personal and General Safety Measures

Personal Protection

• Wear chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or heavy-duty latex).

• Use laboratory safety goggles or face shields.

• In closed or heated environments, use a half-mask respirator.

• Wear protective lab or industrial clothing.

General Workplace Measures

• Operate in a well-ventilated area (preferably under a fume hood).

• Avoid prolonged skin contact.

• Do not use or store near open flames or heat sources.

• Keep a valid SDS (Safety Data Sheet) accessible near the work area.

Storage Conditions

Final Safety Recommendations

• Personnel must be trained in HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) procedures for handling aromatic solvents.

• For industrial or laboratory use, an up-to-date SDS (compliant with GHS) must always be available.

• During transport, proper hazard labeling and classification must be followed — UN No. 1990, in accordance with international chemical transport regulations.