Phenol
Versatile aromatic intermediate for resins, bisphenol A, and downstream synthesis
Supply Origins
Packaging
Drums & ISO Tanks (molten)
Related Product
About Phenol
Phenol (C₆H₅OH, CAS 108-95-2) is one of the most important aromatic intermediates in industrial chemistry — a white crystalline solid at room temperature that is typically handled and shipped in molten form. Produced predominantly via the cumene process, phenol is the primary feedstock for bisphenol A (BPA) and phenol-formaldehyde (phenolic) resins, which together account for the majority of global demand. It is further converted downstream into caprolactam (the precursor to nylon-6), alkylphenols, aniline, and salicylic acid. First Chemicals supplies phenol in two grades — technical at 93–95% and refined at 99% — from verified producers in China, with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) and MSDS provided for every shipment.
Key Applications
- Bisphenol A (BPA) production — feedstock for polycarbonate and epoxy resins
- Phenol-formaldehyde (phenolic) resins — plywood, laminates, moulding compounds, insulation
- Caprolactam manufacture — nylon-6 precursor
- Alkylphenols and phenolic antioxidants
- Salicylic acid, aspirin, and pharmaceutical intermediates
- Aniline, disinfectants, and general chemical synthesis
Typical Specifications
* Specifications are typical values. Actual COA provided with each shipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is phenol used for?
Phenol’s two largest uses are bisphenol A (BPA) production — the building block of polycarbonate and epoxy resins — and phenol-formaldehyde (phenolic) resins used in plywood, laminates, insulation, and moulding compounds. It is also converted into caprolactam (nylon-6), alkylphenols, salicylic acid, aniline, and a range of pharmaceutical intermediates.
What purity and grade of phenol does First Chemicals supply?
We supply phenol in two grades — technical grade at 93–95% purity and refined grade at 99% purity — so the grade can be matched to the application. Exact values for each lot, including crystallizing point, colour and moisture, are confirmed on the Certificate of Analysis provided with every shipment.
How is phenol shipped and stored?
Phenol is a solid at room temperature (melting point ~41 °C) and is commonly transported molten in heated/insulated ISO tanks, or solidified in drums. Molten phenol is held above its freezing point during transit and storage. It should be kept away from heat, oxidisers, and moisture, and handled per its MSDS.
Is phenol hazardous to handle?
Yes. Phenol is corrosive and toxic — it can cause severe burns and is readily absorbed through skin. It must be handled with appropriate PPE and engineering controls as specified in the MSDS supplied with every shipment. First Chemicals provides full safety documentation with each order.
Where does First Chemicals source phenol from?
We source phenol from verified producers in China. All suppliers are audited for quality management systems, and we require a batch Certificate of Analysis (COA) and MSDS with every shipment.