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It is usual to hear “phenol” while discussing organic chemistry. Pronounced as C₆H₆O, phenol has the following chemical formula: C₆H₅OH. This is an aromatic chemical, which means it has 4n+2 double bonds and forms a ring. Its formula is C₆H₆O. A hydroxyl group is connected to a phenyl group in this molecule. There are several uses of phenol, as evidenced by its good solubility in water and usage as a cleaning agent. It is accurate to say that phenol was one of the first organic chemicals to be utilised to produce industrially manufactured soap. Although slightly acidic in water, it is corrosive to the eyes, respiratory tract, and skin when exposed to the elements. As a result of these factors, phenol’s use as a cleaner has diminished significantly.
Structure and uses of phenol
In organic compounds, phenol is a form of substance in which the OH group, also known as the hydroxyl group, is connected to an aromatic benzene ring. Phenol is a type of organic molecule derived from the hydroxyl group. A C₆H₅OH chemical formula identifies it as an aromatic organic molecule.
Phenol is a white crystalline substance that is moderately acidic and poisonous, and it is produced as a byproduct of the distillation of coal tar. Due to its high moisture content and volatility, it is extremely unstable. It has a sweet scent and a strong burning flavour on eating. Phenol is produced on a massive scale using feedstock generated from petroleum. A variety of critical commodities, such as plastics and antiseptics, are produced due to their use as a precursor.
Production Of Phenol:
Scientists use several processes to create a one-of-a-kind phenol structure. They investigate the chemical formula of phenol and look for strategies to get the specific arrangement of atoms. The following are two techniques of synthesis that may be used to create the phenol structure and the phenol formula:
1. From Sulphonic acids :
At 573 K , Sodium benzene sulphonate(C₆H₅SO₃Na ) reacts with sodium hydroxide(NaOH ) to form sodium phenoxide ,which further reacts with acid such as HCl to produce phenol.
C₆H₅SO₃Na + 2 NaOH → C₆H₅ONa + Na₂SO₃ + H₂O
C₆H₅ONa + 2 HCl → 2C₆H₅OH + 2 NaCl
2.From Diazonium salts :
The solution of diazonium salts is added to boiling dilute sulphuric acid to produce phenol.
Phenol application : uses of phenols
Phenol is a precursor of a wide range of imported goods. Phenol is also used in certain medical procedures and as an active component in a variety of therapies and laboratory applications, in addition to its general use.
In Preparation of Phenol-Formaldehyde Resin
Phenol is used as an intermediary in manufacturing phenolic resins, which is the most common use. Phenol interacts with formaldehyde and polymerises to generate phenol-formaldehyde resins, which are toxic to humans and animals. This resin, which is also known commercially as bakelite, is utilised in the production of switches, cabinets, and doors, among other things. As a result of its ability to tolerate harsh circumstances, this resin is found in a variety of electrical and car sectors.
In addition to formaldehyde, the reaction between phenol and formaldehyde produces a chemical that resembles the sun, known as Novolac. With its adhesive characteristics, Novolac has found use in several industries with its adhesive characteristics, including the pharmaceutical industry.
In Preparation of Phenolphthalein in a laboratory
Phenolphthalein is a key biomarker of acid-base balance. It is possible to make phenolphthalein by condensing phthalic anhydride with two equivalents of Phenol in an acidic environment, as indicated by the name of the compound. In acidic solutions, it becomes colourless, whereas, in basic solutions, it becomes pink. It is classified as a phthalein dye, which is a type of dye class.
In Preparation of Picric Acid
Picric acid may be made from phenol by reacting it with concentrated sulphuric acid and concentrated nitric acid and then separating the resulting product. Picric acid is generated when the nitro groups from nitric acid attack the ortho and para positions of the newly-formed molecule, which is the most favourable and stable position for the newly-formed chemical. Picric acid is a chemical compound that is used in the creation of explosives, matches, and electric batteries, among other things. Also employed in the etching of copper and the production of tinted glass, the leather industry, and the synthesis of colours, it is a versatile chemical. Picric acid is a flammable and combustible substance that is extremely unstable. Heat, sparks, or flames can all cause it to catch fire. When subjected to heat, flame, friction, or shock, dried-out picric acid may explode, and it should be handled as if it were explosive.
Phenol Injection
Phenol injections into muscles are used to treat muscular spasticity, which is a disorder characterised by muscle tightness. This occurs when there is an imbalance in the coordination of the brain’s nerves.
It is also possible that muscle stiffness will impair your ability to walk or speak properly.
Phenol inhibits the transmission of impulses from the nerves to the muscles, which results in muscular contractions. With the aid of a phenol injection, we may move more freely and experience less agony.
Matrixectomy
Ingrown toenail surgery uses Phenol. Treatments for severe ingrown toenails don’t work. Phenol (trichloroacetic acid) is used to halt nail regrowth. Ingrown toenail therapy with sodium hydroxide has fewer side effects than Phenol today.
As Vaccine
Some vaccinations contain phenol as a preservative. The shots are:
Pneumovax 23 (for pneumonia and meningitis)
Typhim Vi (typhoid)
ACAM2000 for smallpox is used in the polio vaccine Ipol.
It keeps germs from developing in the vaccination solutions.
In Skin Treatment
Phenol, if left on the skin, damages the outer layers. Warts and other skin blemishes and problems are occasionally treated with strong phenol solutions. Chemical peels containing phenol are used to treat skin lesions and acute discomfort.
Oral Analgesic
Many phenol-based medications are available over the counter to treat mouth-related issues.
These products numb the mouth and lips and reduce discomfort and irritation.
Phenol-based medications are also used to treat pharyngitis, a bacterial infection of the throat.
Products containing phenol are readily accessible and safe in modest amounts. Consult a doctor before using any of these products.
In Disinfectant
A 2-5% aqueous phenol solution is used to disinfect and kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This can destroy microbes and anthrax spores. Disinfect equipment or biological materials. Depending on the dosage, phenol can be an antiseptic or disinfectant. Phenol 0.2% antiseptic, 1% disinfection
Preservatives in Food and Cosmetics
BHT, a phenol derivative, is utilised as a preservative in food and cosmetics. Small doses are safe.
Antioxidants
Plant-derived phenolic chemicals are antioxidants. Antioxidants prevent free radicals from damaging our DNA and affecting our long-term health.
Free radicals destroy molecules like DNA. Free radicals can occasionally generate more.
Antioxidant molecules protect healthy molecules from free radicals. Antioxidants restore the electron and neutralise it.
Conclusion:
With a variety of uses of phenols, including chemistry, biology, and medical laboratory, as well as in consumer items, phenol is a frequently used chemical solvent. This does not negate the fact that it is poisonous. It is critical to handle phenol with care, as even a minor misuse can result in death.
