Benzylalkohole

Benzyl alcohol, also known as phenylmethanol, is an aromatic primary alcohol with the formula C7H8O (C6H5CH2OH). It is a colorless, slightly viscous liquid with a mild, sweet aroma. Commercially it is produced by catalytic hydrogenation of benzaldehyde or by hydrolysis of benzyl chloride, and it can be found in trace amounts in some essential oils and fruit extracts.

Benzyl alcohol is widely used as a solvent in inks, coatings, adhesives, and cosmetics; it serves as an intermediate in the manufacture of fragrances, flavors, and pharmaceutical compounds; and it is used as a preservative in some injectable medicines and vaccines. In the fragrance and flavor industries, it provides a sweet, balsamic note and is a common component of many products.

Physically, benzyl alcohol boils at about 204–205°C and melts around −15°C. It is freely soluble in many organic solvents and has limited miscibility with water. The substance is flammable and should be stored away from ignition sources. It can cause skin and eye irritation and may be harmful if swallowed in large quantities.

In terms of safety and regulation, benzyl alcohol is handled as a chemical reagent and solvent with appropriate exposure controls to minimize irritation and other health risks. In medical contexts, its use as a preservative in certain injectable products is restricted to low, carefully controlled concentrations.