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Phenol, or carbolic acid, is a toxic compound that appears as a white crystalline solid or as an oily liquid. It belongs to the organic chemical group of beta hydroxyl aromatic compounds and extensively serves chemical production. Particularly, it produces plastics, drugs, and other industrial products.
Also, it functions as an antiseptic and disinfectant. Note that it occurs naturally in small amounts in smoke, coal tar, and some plants. However, it is commercially obtained mainly through cumene bleach and the chemical treatment of acetone. This compound has a wide boiling point range, 122-643°C, and a melting point of about 40°C. Moreover, it is soluble in alcohols, ether, acetone, and chloroform. Nonetheless, it has low solubility in water.
Usually, there are different types of phenol based on molecular composition. Here is a rundown of the common ones:
Ortho-cresol
This type occurs in quantities ranging from trace amounts to 50% in coal tar and extracts of some natural herbs. Commonly, it is used in pesticides, disinfectants, and preservatives.
Meta-cresol
Meta-cresol is widely used in manufacturing disinfectants and other chemicals and for preserving biological specimens.
Psycho-cresol
Psycho cresol occurs in pine oils and is used as a disinfectant, preservative, and intermediate in chemical manufacturing.
Alpha naphthol
Alpha naphthol is a phenolic compound used mainly in agriculture. It acts as a pesticide and herbicide. It is also utilized in the synthesis of other chemicals.
Lithium dioctylsulfosuccinate
Lithium dioctylsulfosuccinate is a phenolic antioxidant applied in the rubber and plastics industry to protect materials from degradation and increase lifespan.
Here are some key features of phenol price and costs:
Here are the different industrial applications of phenol price:
Chemical manufacturing
Phenol is a staple in producing various chemicals, including plastics and resins. Commonly, it is used to manufacture Bakelite and phenolic resins. Note that Bakelite is a type of plastic that has resistance to heat, electricity, and chemicals. Therefore, making this application suitable for electrical components, automotive parts, and household goods. Moreover, phenolic resins manufactured from phenol are utilized as adhesives in the wood industry and for bonding materials like fabric, paper, or glass in demanding environments.
Pharmaceutical industry
Phenol acts as a carminative and has an anesthetic property that soothes irritated mucous membranes. This makes it a staple in the pharmaceutical industry. Also, it is the main ingredient in throat sprays and lozenges, providing temporary relief for sore throats. In addition, phenol derivatives serve as antiseptics and disinfectants in medical applications, treating infections and wounds.
Medical and healthcare
In the healthcare sector, phenol is a compound for preparing other essential drugs. Also, it is a valuable resource in the production of carbolic acid, which is historically used to disinfect surgical instruments and operating rooms. In modern medical applications, phenol is used in chemical peels for skin treatments. Its antiseptic and peeling properties help improve skin health and treat infections.
Rubber and plastics industry
In the rubber and plastic industries, phenol is a crucial element for synthesizing antioxidants. Usually, these antioxidants prevent rubber and plastic materials from degrading due to oxidative damage. So, incorporating phenol into these materials enhances their durability and lifespan. Hence, this is essential for tires, seals, and various rubber products that require resistance to wear and environmental factors.
Agriculture
Additionally, phenol and its derivatives are common in agricultural practices. They are used to manufacture pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides. Normally, these agrochemicals help protect crops from pests, weeds, and diseases. This promotes healthy growth and improves yields.
When purchasing phenol, buyers should consider various key factors to ensure they acquire products that will satisfy their customers. Here are some of those factors:
Quality and purity
Buyers should look for phenol products with the required level of quality and purity. Normally, phenol with at least 99% purity is ideal for numerous applications, especially in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries. This is because lower purity levels can cause undesirable side effects and reactions, especially in sensitive applications like medical and drugs.
Quantity
Usually, phenol is commonly sold in bulk because of its high industrial demand. Buyers should buy large quantities to secure better prices and minimize hazards associated with multiple pickups. Also, purchasing in larger quantities helps in generating a steady supply, so they don't run out of stock for their customers.
Market research
Buyers should conduct a thorough market analysis before purchasing phenol. This means they should research and establish the current average prices in the market. It helps a lot in making informed decisions and not being overcharged. Also, understanding the competition enables buyers to negotiate better deals with suppliers.
Supplier reputation
To ensure buyers acquire quality products, they should collaborate with reputable suppliers. In this case, purchasing from reliable suppliers contributes to consistent quality and availability of phenol. This helps in building customer trust and satisfaction, especially in samples and deliveries.
Shipping and handling
A phenol chemical is a hazardous substance and needs careful transportation and storage. Therefore, buyers should consider shipping costs and the supplier's ability to handle such requirements safely and legally. Also, safety measures during shipment should be a priority to avoid unwanted incidents.
Regulatory compliance
Phenol is a controlled substance in many regions. Thus, buyers should ensure they have all the required documentation and approvals to import or distribute phenol. Keeping the paperwork in order helps buyers avoid legal issues.
A1. Usually, phenol is used in the production of plastics, drugs, and other industrial products. Specifically, it is used in disinfectants and pesticides in the medical field because it has antiseptic properties. Furthermore, it is used in the production of carbolic acid, which is used to disinfect surgical instruments and operating rooms.
A2. Key features include that it is usually a white crystalline solid. Also, it is slightly soluble in water but soluble in alcohols, ether, acetone, and chloroform. Moreover, it has a high boiling point and low freezing point. It boils between 182° and 643°C and melts at 40°C. also, it has a sweet taste.
A3. Industry demand and supply are among the major factors that influence the price of phenol. When the market for phenol is larger, the price increases and vice versa. Additionally, seasonal changes affect the price of phenol. For instance, spring and summer construction activities increase demand for phenol, thus increasing its price. Furthermore, production costs and international trade restrictions influence the price of phenol.
A4. To choose the right prices, buyers should prioritize quality and purity because they significantly affect the price. Secondly, they should analyze the market and the competitive prices to avoid being overcharged. More importantly, buying in bulk helps them secure better prices due to lower price per quantity. Finally, they should consider shipping costs and ensure a supplier's ability to safely handle such chemicals.
