[Chemical Knowledge]：The nature, use, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods of o-cresol, is o-cresol toxic?

Properties of o-cresol

o-cresol (ortho-Cresol), chemical formula C7H8O, is an isomer of cresol, specifically ortho-methyl substituted phenol. In its molecular structure, the methyl and hydroxyl groups on the benzene ring are in adjacent positions. o-cresol is a colorless or pale yellow liquid at room temperature with a strong phenol odor. Its physical properties include: boiling point of 191°C, melting point of 30°C, density of about 1.05g/cm³, solubility increases with increasing temperature. O-cresol has moderate volatility and strong acidity, and can be neutralized with alkali to form a salt.

Use of o-cresol

o-cresol is widely used in industry and laboratory. Its main uses include:

1. chemical synthesis raw materials o-cresol is an important raw material for the production of a variety of organic compounds, especially in the pesticide, pharmaceutical and dye industries. For example, it can be used to synthesize antioxidants, plastic additives, preservatives, and resins.
2. Disinfectant o-cresol has strong sterilization and disinfection ability, commonly used in the preparation of disinfectant and preservatives.
3. Solvent in organic synthesis, o-cresol is often used as a solvent, especially in reactions that require polar solvents.
4. surface active agent: O-cresol can be used to manufacture certain specific surfactants, which have a wide range of applications in cleaning and emulsifying products.

Upstream and downstream raw materials of o-cresol

upstream raw materials

the production of o-cresol mainly uses the following raw materials and methods:

1. toluene toluene is one of the important upstream raw materials of o-cresol, and cresol can be generated by the methylation reaction of toluene.
2. Phenol: Methylation of phenol under high temperature and high pressure can also be used to prepare o-cresol.
3. coal tar: Fractionation and purification from coal tar can also obtain o-cresol, which is one of the traditional production methods.

Downstream Products

the main downstream products of o-cresol include:

1. antioxidant: o-cresol can be used to prepare a variety of antioxidants, such as BHT (2,6-di-tert-butyl-p-cresol).
2. Plastic and Rubber Additives o-cresol is widely used as stabilizer and antioxidant in plastics and rubber industry.
3. Resin: O-cresol is an important monomer for the production of some specialty resins, such as phenolic resins.
4. pharmaceutical intermediates: o-cresol can be used to synthesize some drug molecules and is a key intermediate of some drugs.

Storage method of o-cresol

due to the chemical nature and potential hazards of o-cresol, proper storage methods are essential. The following are the main storage requirements for o-cresol:

1. temperature control: O-cresol should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated warehouse, away from direct sunlight and high temperature. The best storage temperature is room temperature or slightly lower.
2. sealed container o-cresol is volatile and corrosive and should be stored in sealed corrosion-resistant containers. Commonly used materials are glass, chemical-resistant plastic or coated metal containers.
3. Fire Prevention Measures: O-cresol is combustible, and the storage site should be equipped with appropriate fire extinguishing equipment, such as dry powder fire extinguishers and carbon dioxide fire extinguishers. At the same time, should be away from the fire and heat source.
4. Ventilation facilities: Good ventilation system should be provided in the warehouse to prevent the accumulation of o-cresol vapor and reduce the risk of fire and poisoning.
5. Identification and labeling: Storage containers and warehouses shall be clearly marked and labeled with information such as chemical name, danger, operation precautions, etc.

Safe operation and environmental impact

safety protection should be paid attention to when operating and using o-cresol to avoid harm to human body and environment. Here are some important safety guidelines:

1. personal Protection: Operators should wear appropriate protective equipment, including gloves, protective glasses and protective clothing to prevent o-cresol from contacting skin and eyes.
2. Emergency treatment: In case of leakage, quickly isolate the leakage area, use adsorption materials (such as activated carbon, sand) for absorption, and thoroughly clean the contaminated area with water.
3. Waste disposal o-cresol waste shall be treated in accordance with hazardous waste management regulations to avoid random discharge and pollution to water and soil.
4. Environmental monitoring: During the production and use of o-cresol, environmental monitoring should be carried out to ensure that its emission concentration is within a safe range.

Market Prospect and Development Trend

with the continuous development of the chemical industry, the demand for o-cresol is also showing an upward trend. The continuous expansion of its application fields, such as the research and development of new materials and high-performance chemicals, will promote the further growth of the o-cresol market. The increasingly stringent environmental regulations have also prompted manufacturers to adopt safer and more environmentally friendly production processes to improve product quality and safety.

As an important chemical raw material, o-cresol has broad application prospects and market potential. In the process of its production, storage and use, we must pay attention to safety and environmental protection issues to ensure that its impact on the human body and the environment is minimized.