Structure | ![]() |
---|---|
Formula |
C8H10O2 |
CAS No. | 122-99-6 |
EC No. | 204-589-7 |
Synonyms | INCI: Phenoxyethanol; Phenoxetol; Phenoxyethyl alcohol; Arosol; Ethylene glycol phenyl ether; 1-Hydroxy-2-phenoxyethane; b-Hydroxyethyl phenyl ether; Ethylene glycol mono phenyl ether; Phenyl cellosolve; Phenoxethol; Phenoxyl ethanol; glycol monophenyl ether; phenoxytol; phenylmonoglycol ether; 2-hydroxyethyl phenyl ether; beta-phenoxyethyl alcohol; rose ether |
Phenoxyethanol
Application Consumer products
- Preservation of cosmetics, toiletry and household products and their raw materials
- Phenoxyethanol is often used in combination with other preservatives and in some cases positive synergetic effects can be obtained. It is also used in acne treatment
- Due to its low evaporation, Phenoxyethanol is used as a fixative in perfumes and fragrance.
Industrial products
- It can be used in water mixable lubricants, in paints and varnishes as coalescing agent and as a modifier in melamine formaldehyde resins
- It is used as a solvent in ball pen and printing inks.
- Phenoxyethanol is used as a striping agent and in the surface treatment of metals as degreaser.
- Its biostatic abilities is often used in combination with other actives to preserve metal working fluids, glues and industrial adhesives
Safety
Eye contact may cause moderate irritation or moderate corneal injury. Repeated skin contact may result in absorption of harmful amounts. Swallowing small amounts is unlikely to result in injury. Swallowing large amounts may result in injury.
Phenoxyethanol is a high boiling liquid with a low vapor pressure, so exposure to vapors is unlikely at room temperature.
Phenoxyethanol is thermally stable at typical storage and use temperatures. It can oxidize at elevated temperatures. Phenoxyethanol is readily biodegradable and has a low potential for bioconcentration. It is practically nontoxic to aquatic organisms.
Handling and storage
Contact with eyes and skin should be avoided. Safety googles must be worn when handling the concentrated product. The product should be stored at seald packaging as supplied, in dry conditions, at temperatures not exceeding 30
Classification according to EU criteria:
Not classified as hazardous under transport regulation
Classification according to UN criteria
Not classified as hazardous under transport regulation
Shelf Life
Under proper storage conditions, the shelf life is 24 month
Health & Safety
Detailed information on the product described can be found in our relevant Health and Safety Information (Material Safety Data Sheet).