ROCH2C6H5

ROCH2C6H5, also known as benzyl alcohol, is an aromatic alcohol with the chemical formula C7H8O. It is a colorless liquid with a mild, pleasant aroma. Benzyl alcohol is naturally found in some fruits and teas, and it is also produced synthetically.

Industrially, benzyl alcohol is manufactured through the hydrolysis of benzyl chloride or by the Cannizzaro reaction of benzaldehyde. Its primary applications are as a solvent, a preservative, and a fragrance ingredient. As a solvent, it is used in paints, lacquers, epoxies, and inks due to its ability to dissolve a variety of resins and polymers. In cosmetics and personal care products, it functions as a preservative, preventing microbial growth, and as a fragrance component, contributing to pleasant scents.

Benzyl alcohol also finds use as a precursor in the synthesis of other organic compounds, including esters, which are used in artificial flavors and fragrances. In medicine, it is employed as a bacteriostatic agent in injectable medications and as a local anesthetic. While generally considered safe in small quantities, it can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. Ingestion of large amounts can lead to adverse health effects. Its flammability requires appropriate handling and storage precautions.