Phenol is both a manufactured chemical and a natural substance. It is a colorless-to-white solid when pure. The commercial product is a liquid. Phenol has a distinct odor that is sickeningly sweet and tarry.You can taste and smell phenol at levels lower than those that are associated with harmful effects. Phenol evaporates more slowly than water, and a moderate amount can form a solution with water. Phenol can catch fire. Phenol is used primarily in the production of phenolic resins and in the manufacture of nylon and other synthetic fibers. It is also used in slimicides (chemicals that kill bacteria and fungi in slimes), as a sanitizer and antiseptic, and in medicinal preparations such as mouthwash and sore throat lozenges.
Phenol is an important organic chemical raw material, which has important applications as chemical raw material, alkyl phenol, synthetic fiber, plastics, synthetic rubber, medicine, pesticide, perfume, dye, coating and oil refining industries.In addition, phenol can also be used as a solvent, experimental reagent and disinfectant.
Phenol is also widely used in the manufacture of phenolic resin, epoxy resin, polyamide fiber, plasticizer, contrast agent, preservatives,insecticides, fungicides, dyes, medicine, spices and explosives.
