What Is Phenoxyethanol?
Phenoxyethanol (also known as ethylene glycol monophenyl ether, phenyl cellosolve) is an organic compound consisting of ethylene glycol and phenol ether bonded. It has a boiling point of 247°C, a melting point of -2°C, and a density of 1.10 g/cm3. It is characterized by a colorless viscous liquid at room temperature and a rose-like aroma.
It is easily soluble in water, alcohols, glycerin, and various other substances, making it easy to handle. It is also found in green tea and is a natural organic compound found in nature. It is a flammable substance and its flash point at normal pressure is 121 ºC.
Uses of Phenoxyethanol
Phenoxyethanol is often used as a preservative for various items because of its antibacterial properties.
In particular, it is often used in cosmetics, and with paraben-free products attracting attention, it is increasingly being added as a preservative that is safe and widely effective against many types of microorganisms. Cosmetics containing phenoxyethanol have a characteristic flowery fragrance even if no fragrance is used.
In addition to cosmetics, there are many other products that require antiseptic effects. It is used in a wide range of fields, including pharmaceuticals, dyes, inks, resins, lubricants, insect repellents, mold inhibitors in paints, additives in photographic films, and disinfectants.
Synthesis of Phenoxyethanol
It is synthesized by reacting phenol with oxirane (ethylene oxide), bromoethanol, or ethylene carbonate, resulting in hydroxyethylation.