BENZYL ALCOHOL (BA)

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is a clear, colorless aromatic alcohol used as a solvent, preservative, fragrance ingredient, viscosity modifier, chemical intermediate, epoxy-formulation component, pharmaceutical excipient and carrier in a wide range of industrial and specialty applications. Benzyl Alcohol (BA) has CAS Number 100-51-6, EC Number 202-859-9, molecular formula C7H8O and molecular weight approximately 108.14 g/mol. Benzyl Alcohol (BA) has a melting point around -15°C, boiling point around 205°C, density around 1.04-1.05 g/cm³, room-temperature water solubility around 40 g/L and flash point in the approximate 93-99°C range depending on method. Benzyl Alcohol (BA) combines moderate polarity, low volatility, good solvency for many organic materials, partial miscibility with water and a mild aromatic odor, which explains its importance in coatings, inks, epoxy systems, personal care, pharmaceuticals, fragrances, food-flavor carriers and chemical synthesis. Current grade selection should distinguish industrial, cosmetic, food, pharmaceutical and analytical requirements because the same molecular substance can be supplied under very different purity, impurity, preservative, allergen, documentation and regulatory specifications.

PRODUCT IDENTITY

Chemical Name: Benzyl Alcohol
Product Designation: Benzyl Alcohol (BA)
Common Abbreviation: BA
CAS Number: 100-51-6
EC Number: 202-859-9
EU CLP Index Number: 603-057-00-5
PubChem CID: 244
Molecular Formula: C7H8O
Condensed Formula: C6H5CH2OH
Molecular Weight: Approximately 108.14 g/mol
IUPAC Name: Phenylmethanol
Chemical Class: Aromatic alcohol
Functional Group: Primary alcohol
Physical Form: Liquid
Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
Odor: Faint aromatic, mildly fruity or pleasant characteristic odor
Melting Point: Approximately -15°C
Boiling Point: Approximately 205.3°C at 1013 hPa
Density: Approximately 1.04-1.05 g/cm³ around room temperature
Specific Gravity: Approximately 1.04-1.05 depending on temperature and specification
Water Solubility: Approximately 40 g/L near 20°C in widely cited OECD data
Solubility in Organic Solvents: Miscible with or readily soluble in ethanol, ether, acetone and many other organic solvents
Vapor Pressure at 20°C: Low, approximately 0.03-0.13 hPa depending on reference and measurement basis
Relative Vapor Density: Approximately 3.7 relative to air
Log Kow: Approximately 1.1
Flash Point: Common experimental values approximately 93-99°C, with method-dependent literature values extending above this range
Autoignition Temperature: Approximately 430-440°C in widely cited safety references
Viscosity: Approximately 4.5-5.5 cP near room temperature depending on temperature and method
Refractive Index: Approximately 1.538-1.541 near 20°C for high-purity food/flavor specifications
Primary Functions: Solvent, preservative, fragrance ingredient, carrier, viscosity modifier and chemical intermediate
Important Industrial Function: Reactive diluent / viscosity reducer and cure-modifying component in selected epoxy-amine systems
Cosmetic Preservative Limit in the EU: Up to 1.0% when used as a preservative
EU Cosmetic Fragrance-Labeling Threshold for Other Uses: Ingredient-list declaration when fragrance-related concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products or 0.01% in rinse-off products under the applicable fragrance-allergen entry
Food / Flavor Status: Recognized in food-flavoring and carrier-solvent frameworks; JECFA Number 25 and FEMA Number 2137
JECFA Functional Class: Flavouring agent and carrier solvent
Food-Grade JECFA Assay: Not less than 98.0% under the referenced specification
Current EU Harmonized Classification: Acute Toxicity Category 4, Eye Irritation Category 2 and Skin Sensitization Category 1B under the current harmonized CLP entry applicable from 1 September 2025
Storage Principle: Store cool, dry and tightly closed, separated from strong oxidizing agents and protected from contamination

SYNONYMS

Benzyl Alcohol, Benzyl Alcohol BA, BA, Phenylmethanol, Phenyl Methanol, Phenylcarbinol, Phenyl Carbinol, Phenylmethyl Alcohol, Phenylmethylalcohol, Benzenemethanol, Benzene Methanol, Benzenecarbinol, Benzene Carbinol, Alpha-Hydroxytoluene, α-Hydroxytoluene, Hydroxymethylbenzene, (Hydroxymethyl)benzene, Toluene-alpha-ol, Alpha-Toluenol, Benzyl Alcohol Solvent, Benzyl Alcohol Preservative, Benzyl Alcohol Fragrance Ingredient, Benzyl Alcohol Carrier Solvent, Benzyl Alcohol Epoxy Modifier, Benzyl Alcohol Reactive Diluent, Benzyl Alcohol Pharmaceutical Grade, Benzyl Alcohol Food Grade, CAS 100-51-6, EC 202-859-9, C6H5CH2OH

WHAT IS BENZYL ALCOHOL (BA)?

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is the simplest aromatic alcohol containing a benzene ring attached to a hydroxymethyl group.
The molecule combines an aromatic hydrophobic region with a polar primary alcohol group.
This balance gives Benzyl Alcohol (BA) useful solvency for many organic resins, fragrances, preservatives, pharmaceuticals and specialty chemicals while retaining measurable water solubility.
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is less volatile than common solvents such as ethanol, acetone or many glycol ethers.
The material can therefore function as a high-boiling solvent, co-solvent and viscosity modifier where slower evaporation is useful.
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is also chemically reactive and can be oxidized to benzaldehyde and Benzoic Acid or esterified to form benzyl esters such as benzyl benzoate.

CHEMICAL STRUCTURE

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) contains a phenyl ring attached to a CH2OH group.
The hydroxyl-bearing carbon is benzylic, meaning it is directly adjacent to the aromatic ring.
Benzylic position chemistry makes oxidation to benzaldehyde particularly accessible.
Further oxidation can produce Benzoic Acid.
The hydroxyl group can also form esters with carboxylic acids or acid derivatives.
The aromatic ring provides additional hydrophobicity and contributes to solvent compatibility with many resin and fragrance systems.

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is a clear, colorless liquid under normal ambient conditions.
The melting point is approximately -15°C, so Benzyl Alcohol (BA) remains liquid in most ordinary storage environments.
The normal boiling point is approximately 205.3°C.
Density is approximately 1.04-1.05 g/cm³ near room temperature.
Water solubility is substantial but incomplete, commonly around 40 g/L at approximately 20°C.
The low room-temperature vapor pressure and high boiling point make Benzyl Alcohol (BA) a relatively slow-evaporating solvent.

MELTING POINT

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) has a melting point near -15°C.
The low melting point allows normal pumping and liquid transfer through most industrial temperature ranges.
Very cold winter storage can nevertheless increase viscosity or cause partial crystallization if temperature falls sufficiently.
Material should be returned to a homogeneous liquid state using controlled temperature before sampling or dosing.
Open flame or uncontrolled heating should never be used.

BOILING POINT

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) boils at approximately 205.3°C at atmospheric pressure.
The high boiling point contributes to slow evaporation and extended open time in many formulations.
High-boiling behavior can be advantageous in coatings, inks, adhesives and epoxy systems where premature solvent loss would reduce leveling or wetting.
The same persistence can extend drying time if Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is used at excessive level.
Formulators should therefore balance solvency and evaporation against final dry-film or cure requirements.

DENSITY

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) has density around 1.04-1.05 g/cm³ at room temperature.
The liquid is therefore slightly denser than fresh water.
Density is useful for tank inventory, transfer calculations and conversion between mass and volume.
Stoichiometric or precision formulations should preferably be controlled by mass where possible.
Product-specific density from the current COA should be used for narrow manufacturing tolerances.

WATER SOLUBILITY

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) has moderate water solubility rather than complete miscibility.
OECD reference data give approximately 40 g/L at about 20°C.
The aromatic ring limits complete water compatibility while the hydroxyl group provides hydrogen bonding.
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can therefore serve as a bridge co-solvent between aqueous and organic formulation components.
High electrolyte concentration, temperature and co-solvents can change practical phase behavior.
A clear concentrate should be checked for phase separation after storage and dilution.

ORGANIC SOLVENT COMPATIBILITY

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) mixes readily with many organic solvents.
The liquid is miscible with ethanol and compatible with ether, acetone and numerous aromatic and polar organic media.
This broad solvency makes Benzyl Alcohol (BA) useful in coatings, inks, fragrances, pharmaceuticals and chemical synthesis.
Compatibility with specific polymer binders and reactive systems should still be tested because good solvent miscibility does not guarantee long-term formulation stability.
The slow evaporation rate can cause Benzyl Alcohol (BA) to remain in a coating or polymer matrix longer than more volatile solvents.

VAPOR PRESSURE

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) has low vapor pressure at room temperature.
Reference values vary with method, with OECD data around 0.03 hPa at 20°C and other reference datasets reporting somewhat higher values.
Low vapor pressure reduces rapid evaporative loss during storage and formulation.
Heating substantially increases vapor generation.
Ventilation remains important because the current harmonized classification includes acute toxicity and concentrated vapor or mist should not be inhaled unnecessarily.

FLASH POINT

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) has a relatively high flash point compared with conventional fast solvents.
Experimental databases commonly report values around 93-99°C, while method-dependent values can be higher.
The material is therefore combustible but not normally handled as a highly flammable low-boiling solvent.
Hot surfaces and ignition sources should still be controlled.
The current product-specific SDS should govern formal flash-point classification and fire precautions.

VISCOSITY

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) has low-to-moderate viscosity for a high-boiling aromatic solvent.
Reference data are approximately 4.5-5.5 cP near room temperature.
This low viscosity supports pumping, metering and resin dilution.
Temperature strongly affects viscosity and therefore dispensing behavior.
Viscosity should be interpreted together with purity and water content where the product is used in sensitive resin systems.

REFRACTIVE INDEX

High-purity Benzyl Alcohol (BA) commonly has a refractive index around 1.538-1.541 at 20°C.
Refractive index is useful as a rapid secondary identity and purity check.
Temperature should be controlled during measurement.
Unexpected deviation can indicate water, benzaldehyde, another solvent or product mix-up.
Food and pharmaceutical specifications can include refractive index as part of the release profile.

SOLVENT FUNCTION

Solvency is one of the most important functions of Benzyl Alcohol (BA).
The aromatic ring improves affinity for aromatic and moderately hydrophobic organic ingredients.
The hydroxyl group adds polarity and hydrogen-bonding capability.
This combination allows Benzyl Alcohol (BA) to dissolve many fragrances, resins, preservatives, pharmaceutical actives and specialty additives.
The high boiling point provides slower evaporation than ordinary alcohols.
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can therefore improve wetting, leveling, ingredient incorporation and open time.

CO-SOLVENT FUNCTION

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can function as a co-solvent in mixed aqueous-organic formulations.
Its partial water solubility can help incorporate ingredients that are too hydrophobic for water but too polar for nonpolar solvents.
Co-solvent performance depends on total formulation composition rather than Benzyl Alcohol (BA) alone.
Surfactants, glycols, alcohols, salts and active ingredients can all shift phase behavior.
Storage at high and low temperature should be used to confirm long-term clarity.

PRESERVATIVE FUNCTION

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) has antimicrobial preservative activity and is used as a preservative in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and selected technical formulations.
Preservative effectiveness depends on concentration, product pH, microbial challenge and formulation composition.
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is often combined with other preservatives where broader antimicrobial coverage is required.
A legal maximum concentration is not automatically an effective preservative concentration for every formulation.
Finished products should undergo appropriate microbiological challenge testing where preservation is critical.

EU COSMETIC PRESERVATIVE USE

Current EU cosmetic rules permit Benzyl Alcohol (BA) as a preservative at up to 1.0% in the finished cosmetic product.
This preservative use is distinct from the use of Benzyl Alcohol (BA) as a fragrance ingredient or solvent.
Formulators should identify the functional purpose clearly because regulatory labeling requirements differ by use.
Preservation efficacy should be demonstrated on the final formulation rather than assumed from the maximum legal concentration.
The current cosmetic regulation should be checked before market release because ingredient and allergen requirements can change.

EU COSMETIC FRAGRANCE LABELLING

When Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is present for fragrance or aromatic purposes rather than solely as preservative, European cosmetic ingredient-list requirements include concentration thresholds for declaration.
The applicable threshold is 0.001% in leave-on products.
The applicable threshold is 0.01% in rinse-off products.
These thresholds relate to fragrance-allergen-style ingredient declaration and should not be confused with the separate 1.0% preservative maximum.
Current Annex III and Annex V requirements should be reviewed together for the exact cosmetic use.

FRAGRANCE FUNCTION

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) has a mild aromatic odor and is used as a fragrance ingredient, fragrance solvent and carrier.
The odor is less intense than many dedicated perfume materials, allowing Benzyl Alcohol (BA) to function mainly as a solvent and support ingredient.
The high boiling point helps dissolve and retain less volatile perfume components.
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) also occurs naturally in some essential oils and aromatic plant materials.
Natural occurrence does not remove labeling or purity requirements when purified Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is intentionally added.

APPLICATIONS

Epoxy curing systems
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is widely used in selected amine-cured epoxy formulations as a viscosity reducer, compatibility aid and cure-modifying solvent-like component. Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can improve flow, wetting and low-temperature application behavior.

Epoxy hardener formulations
Formulated polyamine and polyamidoamine hardeners can contain Benzyl Alcohol (BA) to reduce viscosity and improve handling. The amount influences AHEW-on-formulation basis, VOC profile and final network performance.

Epoxy flooring
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can improve flow and application of ambient-cure epoxy floors where the selected hardener technology permits its use.

Self-leveling epoxy floors
Lower binder viscosity can improve leveling and filler wetting in self-leveling flooring systems.

Epoxy primers
Low-viscosity primer formulations can use Benzyl Alcohol (BA) to improve wetting of concrete and prepared metal surfaces.

Epoxy coatings
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can serve as a high-boiling co-solvent and cure modifier in selected ambient-cure epoxy coatings.

Epoxy mortars
Filled repair mortars can benefit from improved resin-hardener mobility and aggregate wetting.

Epoxy grouts
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can reduce binder viscosity in highly filled grout systems where compatibility is validated.

Epoxy adhesives
Selected two-component epoxy adhesives use Benzyl Alcohol (BA) as a solvent-like modifier to improve mixing, wetting and application.

Construction adhesives
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can assist formulation of high-solids epoxy or resin-based construction adhesives.

Industrial maintenance coatings
Ambient-cure maintenance coatings can use Benzyl Alcohol (BA) where lower viscosity and extended wetting time are useful.

Marine coatings
Selected epoxy marine formulations historically use Benzyl Alcohol (BA) in hardener packages, subject to modern VOC and formulation requirements.

Tank linings
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can be present in selected epoxy hardeners used in lining systems, although final immersion resistance must be validated because 
retained solvent-like material can influence network properties.

Concrete coatings
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can improve low-viscosity application and substrate wetting in compatible concrete coating systems.

Protective coatings
The material can act as a high-boiling solvent or formulation aid in compatible resin technologies.

Paints
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is used as a solvent or co-solvent in selected paint systems where slow evaporation and strong solvency are desirable.

Coatings
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can improve solvency, leveling and open time in specialty coatings.

Printing inks
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is used as a high-boiling solvent or formulation aid in selected printing inks.

Inkjet and specialty inks
Slow-evaporating aromatic alcohol can assist solubilization and open-time control in selected specialty ink technologies.

Dyes
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can function as a solvent or carrier in dye manufacture and application.

Textile processing
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) has technical relevance as a dye carrier and solvent in selected textile processes.

Leather formulations
Selected leather finishing and dye formulations can use Benzyl Alcohol (BA) as a solvent or co-solvent.

Fragrances
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is used as a fragrance ingredient and perfume solvent.

Perfume concentrates
The high boiling point and aromatic solvency support use as a carrier for perfume raw materials.

Cosmetics
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is used as a preservative, fragrance ingredient, solvent and viscosity-decreasing ingredient in cosmetics.

Skin-care products
Selected leave-on products can contain Benzyl Alcohol (BA) within current regulatory and safety limits.

Rinse-off cosmetics
Shampoos, body washes and cleansers can use Benzyl Alcohol (BA) as preservative or fragrance-related ingredient.

Hair-care products
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can function as a solvent, preservative or fragrance component in compatible hair-care formulations.

Personal-care formulations
The material can dissolve fragrance, preservative and active ingredients in mixed aqueous-organic personal-care systems.

Pharmaceutical excipients
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is used as a preservative and solvent in selected pharmaceutical formulations.

Multidose pharmaceutical formulations
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) has long been used as an antimicrobial preservative in selected multidose medicines, subject to route, patient population and product-
specific regulation.

Topical pharmaceutical products
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can function as a solvent, preservative or active ingredient in specific topical drug products.

Injectable formulations
Selected multidose injectable products use Benzyl Alcohol (BA) as preservative, but neonatal and low-birth-weight infant exposure requires particular 
caution and preservative-free alternatives are required or preferred in many such settings.

Veterinary pharmaceuticals
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can be used in selected veterinary formulations where the route, species and regulatory framework permit the excipient.

Food flavoring
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is recognized internationally as a flavoring agent under applicable food-flavor frameworks.

Food flavor carrier
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can function as a carrier solvent for flavoring substances under permitted conditions.

Food additive E1519
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is identified as E1519 in European food-additive specifications for its regulated carrier-solvent context.

Flavor concentrates
High-purity Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can dissolve aromatic flavor ingredients where current food rules permit the use.

Chemical synthesis
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is an important intermediate for benzaldehyde, Benzoic Acid, benzyl esters and other benzyl derivatives.

Benzaldehyde manufacture
Controlled oxidation of Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can produce benzaldehyde.

Benzoic Acid manufacture
Further oxidation of Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can produce Benzoic Acid.

Benzyl benzoate manufacture
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) reacts with Benzoic Acid or activated benzoyl derivatives to produce benzyl benzoate.

Benzyl acetate manufacture
Esterification with acetic-acid chemistry produces benzyl acetate for fragrance and specialty uses.

Benzyl ester synthesis
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is a general alcohol raw material for benzyl esters of many carboxylic acids.

Plasticizer intermediates
Benzyl ester chemistry connects Benzyl Alcohol (BA) to selected plasticizer and specialty ester products.

Preservative blends
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is used in preservative systems for cosmetics and technical formulations, often in combination with other antimicrobial ingredients.

Household cleaners
Selected cleaning formulations can use Benzyl Alcohol (BA) as a solvent for oily soils, fragrances or hydrophobic ingredients.

Industrial cleaners
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can dissolve organic residues in specialty cleaner formulations.

Paint removers
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is used in selected lower-volatility paint and coating remover formulations because of strong solvency and slow evaporation.

Coating strippers
High-boiling solvent blends can use Benzyl Alcohol (BA) to swell or soften compatible coating films.

Adhesive removers
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can be used in specialty adhesive-removal formulations where solvent compatibility is suitable.

Electronics cleaning
Selected high-purity cleaning or process formulations can use Benzyl Alcohol (BA), subject to residue and material-compatibility requirements.

Laboratory reagent
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is widely used as a solvent, reagent and reference substance in organic chemistry.

Analytical reference material
High-purity Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is used in chromatographic, spectroscopic and impurity-analysis methods.

Organic synthesis
The benzylic alcohol functionality makes Benzyl Alcohol (BA) a useful model and starting material for oxidation, esterification, etherification and 
substitution chemistry.

BENZYL ALCOHOL IN EPOXY SYSTEMS

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is especially important in ambient-cure epoxy hardener technology.
The material lowers viscosity and improves miscibility of resin and amine components.
Lower viscosity can improve concrete penetration, pigment wetting, filler loading and self-leveling.
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can also accelerate apparent cure development in some amine systems by improving mobility and facilitating reaction.
Because Benzyl Alcohol (BA) does not normally become fully incorporated into the epoxy network as a conventional multifunctional reactant, high levels can influence final glass-transition temperature, chemical resistance and migration.
Modern high-performance formulations therefore balance process benefits against final-property requirements and VOC or restricted-substance goals.

EPOXY HARDENER VISCOSITY REDUCTION

Formulated amine hardeners can be highly viscous because of polyamine adducts, polyamidoamines, Mannich bases or other oligomeric components.
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can reduce hardener viscosity substantially.
Lower viscosity improves pumping, mixing and low-temperature handling.
A hardener containing Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can therefore be easier to formulate into self-leveling floors and coatings.
The total formulation should still be checked for sag, filler settlement and solvent retention.

EPOXY CURE RATE

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can increase cure rate in selected epoxy-amine systems.
The effect is partly associated with improved molecular mobility, compatibility and hydrogen-bonding environment.
Cure acceleration depends on amine chemistry, resin type, Benzyl Alcohol (BA) concentration and temperature.
A faster early cure does not automatically mean a higher final glass-transition temperature.
The complete cured system should therefore be evaluated for hardness, chemical resistance, heat resistance and water uptake.

EPOXY AHEW AND MIX RATIO

When Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is blended into a formulated amine hardener, the commercial hardener's active-hydrogen equivalent weight must reflect the diluted reactive-amine content.
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) itself should not be treated as if it supplied the same epoxy-reactive hydrogen functionality as a primary or secondary amine.
The correct epoxy mix ratio should use the formulated hardener AHEW supplied for that product.
Removing or adding Benzyl Alcohol (BA) to an established hardener can therefore change both viscosity and stoichiometric dosing on a formulation basis.
Hardener reformulation should be followed by new cure and performance testing.

EPOXY SURFACE APPEARANCE

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can improve flow and leveling in epoxy coatings.
Lower viscosity can help release entrained air before gelation.
The effect can produce smoother high-gloss surfaces when the rest of the formulation is balanced.
Excess Benzyl Alcohol (BA), however, can contribute to slower final solvent release or changes in surface properties.
Humidity, amine blush and substrate temperature remain important independent variables.

LOW TEMPERATURE EPOXY APPLICATION

Cold temperatures increase resin and hardener viscosity and slow epoxy-amine cure.
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can improve low-temperature processability by reducing viscosity and increasing molecular mobility.
This is one reason Benzyl Alcohol (BA) has historically been common in ambient-cure flooring and coating hardeners.
The actual minimum cure temperature still depends on the amine hardener chemistry.
Low-temperature use should be validated through cure, adhesion and final-property testing rather than inferred from solvent content alone.

SOLVENT AND VOC CONSIDERATIONS

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is a high-boiling organic liquid and can contribute to VOC or emissions calculations depending on the legal definition used in the market.
Low vapor pressure does not automatically mean VOC-exempt status.
Some modern epoxy systems are intentionally formulated benzyl-alcohol-free to meet specific VOC, migration, odor or property requirements.
Other systems deliberately use Benzyl Alcohol (BA) because the processing benefit outweighs those considerations.
Regulatory classification of VOC content should be calculated under the applicable regional method.

COSMETIC FORMULATION

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) has several possible roles in cosmetics.
It can act as preservative, fragrance ingredient, solvent or viscosity-decreasing component.
The regulatory function should be identified because the EU 1.0% maximum applies when Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is used as preservative.
Fragrance-related ingredient declaration thresholds apply separately when Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is present for other purposes.
Cosmetic safety assessment should consider total exposure from all intentional and naturally occurring sources in the formula.
Preservative challenge testing remains necessary where antimicrobial protection is claimed.

PHARMACEUTICAL USE

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is a long-established pharmaceutical excipient.
The material can function as preservative, solvent and co-solvent in selected oral, topical and parenteral products.
Pharmaceutical grade requires tighter impurity, microbiological and compendial control than ordinary industrial solvent grade.
Preservative concentration depends on the drug product, route and regulatory authorization.
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can also be the active ingredient in specific topical medicinal products.
Grade interchange should therefore never be based only on CAS Number.

NEONATAL SAFETY CONSIDERATION

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) preservative exposure has been associated with serious and fatal 'gasping syndrome' in premature neonates and low-birth-weight infants.
The syndrome has included metabolic acidosis, central nervous system depression, gasping respirations and multi-organ toxicity.
Premature infants have limited capacity to metabolize and excrete Benzyl Alcohol (BA) and its Benzoic Acid metabolite.
Preservative-free formulations are therefore used or recommended for neonatal and low-birth-weight infant applications where current drug labeling requires them.
The minimum exposure at which serious toxicity can occur is not known for all clinical circumstances.
This medical risk is specific to vulnerable patient exposure and should not be confused with ordinary industrial use, but it is essential when Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is supplied for pharmaceutical manufacturing.

FOOD AND FLAVOR USE

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is recognized internationally as a flavoring agent and carrier solvent.
JECFA identifies Benzyl Alcohol (BA) as JECFA Number 25 and lists flavouring-agent and carrier-solvent functions.
The referenced JECFA specification uses assay not less than 98.0%.
The specification also includes refractive index, specific gravity, acid value, aldehyde and impurity controls.
Food use requires food-grade material and compliance with the exact national or international use conditions.
Industrial solvent grade should not be substituted for food-grade Benzyl Alcohol (BA).

EU FOOD ADDITIVE E1519

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is identified as E1519 in European food-additive specifications.
The food-additive specification includes assay not less than 98.0%.
Important quality parameters include refractive index approximately 1.538-1.541, specific gravity approximately 1.042-1.047, acid value not more than 0.5, aldehydes not more than 0.2% by volume expressed as benzaldehyde and lead not more than 2 mg/kg.
The permitted food-use context should be checked separately from the ingredient purity specification.
Food-additive purity does not establish unrestricted use in every food category.

FLAVOR CARRIER FUNCTION

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can dissolve aromatic flavor ingredients that have limited water solubility.
The liquid's high boiling point reduces rapid evaporation during concentrate handling.
Partial water solubility can help transfer flavor ingredients into aqueous food matrices.
Clouding or phase separation can still occur after dilution.
Food manufacturers should validate both legal use and physical stability in the final beverage or food.

FRAGRANCE SOLVENT FUNCTION

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is particularly useful as a perfume solvent because it dissolves many aromatic ingredients.
The relatively slow evaporation rate can support fragrance substantivity.
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can also contribute its own faint aromatic note.
The final odor profile depends on purity because benzaldehyde oxidation impurity has a much stronger almond-like odor.
Low aldehyde content is therefore especially important in high-quality fragrance applications.

BENZALDEHYDE FORMATION

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can oxidize to benzaldehyde during storage or processing.
Air, heat, metals and oxidizing contamination can increase oxidation.
Benzaldehyde has a stronger characteristic odor than Benzyl Alcohol (BA) and can change fragrance or pharmaceutical quality.
Food and pharmaceutical specifications can therefore include an aldehyde limit.
Storage in clean compatible containers and minimizing unnecessary heat can help control oxidation.

BENZOIC ACID FORMATION

Further oxidation of Benzyl Alcohol (BA) or benzaldehyde can produce Benzoic Acid.
Benzoic Acid increases acid value and can alter product odor, pH and purity.
Acid value is therefore an important quality indicator in high-purity Benzyl Alcohol (BA).
Unexpectedly high acidity can signal oxidation or contamination.
Sensitive synthesis and fragrance applications should monitor acid value and aldehyde content together.

PRODUCTION

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can be produced industrially by more than one route.
Established routes include hydrolysis of benzyl chloride and catalytic hydrogenation of benzaldehyde.
Production-route choice affects impurity profile and downstream purification requirements.
Chlorinated organic residues are particularly relevant to route-dependent food or pharmaceutical specifications.
High-purity grades require distillation and analytical control appropriate to the intended use.
The supplied grade should therefore be specified by quality parameters rather than assuming all production routes give identical commercial material.

CHEMICAL INTERMEDIATE

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is an important chemical intermediate because the benzylic hydroxyl group can undergo oxidation, esterification, etherification and substitution.
Oxidation produces benzaldehyde and then Benzoic Acid.
Esterification produces benzyl acetate, benzyl benzoate and many other benzyl esters.
Substitution chemistry can produce benzyl halides or related derivatives under suitable conditions.
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) therefore links fragrance, pharmaceutical, plasticizer and specialty-chemical value chains.

BENZYL BENZOATE SYNTHESIS

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is a key raw material for benzyl benzoate.
Benzyl benzoate can be produced through esterification with Benzoic Acid or by reaction with activated benzoyl derivatives.
Water removal and catalyst selection influence equilibrium esterification.
High-purity Benzyl Alcohol (BA) helps control color and aldehyde impurity in the finished ester.
Benzyl benzoate is used in fragrance, pharmaceutical and specialty applications.

BENZYL ACETATE SYNTHESIS

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can be esterified with acetic-acid chemistry to produce benzyl acetate.
Benzyl acetate is a fragrance and flavor ingredient with characteristic floral odor.
Esterification conditions should control acid conversion, water removal and residual Benzyl Alcohol (BA).
High aldehyde impurity can affect fragrance quality.
The final ester should be purified according to the intended fragrance or food specification.

PAINT AND COATING REMOVAL

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is used in selected paint and coating remover formulations because it combines strong solvency with slow evaporation.
Slow evaporation allows the solvent more time to penetrate and swell coating films.
Formulations can include surfactants, thickeners, activators and other co-solvents.
Material compatibility should be checked because a stripper that softens the target coating can also attack plastics, sealants or adjacent finishes.
Worker exposure and waste handling should follow the current SDS and local solvent regulations.

INK FORMULATION

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can serve as a high-boiling solvent in specialty inks.
Slow evaporation can reduce nozzle drying or premature skin formation in suitable systems.
Strong solvency can help dissolve dyes and selected binders.
Excess slow solvent can delay final drying on the printed substrate.
Ink formulation should therefore balance Benzyl Alcohol (BA) with faster solvents and humectants as required.

QUALITY CONTROL

Important Benzyl Alcohol (BA) quality-control parameters include identity, assay, appearance, color, water, density, refractive index, distillation range, acid value, benzaldehyde content and relevant route-specific impurities.
High-purity food and flavor specifications commonly require assay of at least 98.0%, while pharmaceutical and specialty grades can use tighter internal limits.
Density around 1.04-1.05 g/cm³ and refractive index around 1.538-1.541 provide useful identity checks.
Acid value indicates oxidation toward Benzoic Acid.
Aldehyde content indicates oxidation toward benzaldehyde or related impurity.
The current Ataman Chemicals specification and batch COA should control commercial acceptance.

ASSAY

Assay measures the Benzyl Alcohol (BA) concentration in the commercial grade.
Gas chromatography is commonly used for high-purity material.
Assay should be interpreted together with water, benzaldehyde and acidity.
A high assay alone does not prove food or pharmaceutical suitability because route-specific and elemental impurities can still matter.
The required grade should be agreed before purchase.

WATER CONTENT

Water content affects Benzyl Alcohol (BA) solvency and purity.
Because Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is moderately soluble in water, small water contamination can remain dissolved without visible phase separation.
Excess water can alter resin formulations, esterification yield and pharmaceutical concentration.
Karl Fischer testing is commonly appropriate for moisture control.
The exact maximum should follow the product-specific grade specification.

ACID VALUE

Acid value is an important oxidation and purity indicator for Benzyl Alcohol (BA).
Benzoic Acid formation raises acid value.
Food-additive specifications can use a maximum acid value of 0.5.
More demanding specialty grades can use tighter limits.
Unexpected acid increase should prompt review of storage, oxygen exposure and metal contamination.

BENZALDEHYDE CONTENT

Benzaldehyde is a key oxidation-related impurity in Benzyl Alcohol (BA).
Food-additive specifications can limit aldehydes to not more than 0.2% by volume expressed as benzaldehyde.
Fragrance and pharmaceutical customers can require lower limits because benzaldehyde strongly affects odor and purity.
Chromatographic analysis provides direct impurity control.
Good storage practices help prevent aldehyde growth over time.

PEROXIDE IMPURITIES

Food and flavor specifications can require Benzyl Alcohol (BA) to pass a peroxide test.
Peroxide formation can occur through oxidative aging of organic liquids.
Trace peroxides can interfere with sensitive synthesis and can indicate storage degradation.
Peroxide-sensitive applications should use fresh, properly stored material and the relevant analytical specification.

DISTILLATION RANGE

High-purity Benzyl Alcohol (BA) has a narrow boiling range around 205°C.
JECFA-type food specifications require at least 95% by volume to distill between approximately 202 and 208°C under the prescribed method.
A broad distillation range can indicate lower-boiling or higher-boiling contamination.
Distillation behavior is a useful classical purity check alongside gas chromatography.

COLOR

High-purity Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is clear and colorless.
Yellowing can indicate oxidation, thermal history, metal contamination or route-related impurities.
Color is especially important in fragrance, pharmaceutical, clear-coating and analytical applications.
The agreed APHA or Hazen color limit should be taken from the product specification.

CURRENT EU HARMONIZED CLASSIFICATION

The current European harmonized classification for Benzyl Alcohol (BA) includes Acute Toxicity Category 4, Eye Irritation Category 2 and Skin Sensitization Category 1B.
The updated harmonized entry became applicable from 1 September 2025 under the relevant ATP.
H302 applies to the acute oral toxicity classification in the updated entry.
H319 applies to serious eye irritation.
H317 applies to skin sensitization.
Current product-specific SDS documentation should control final label elements, concentration limits and mixture classification.

SKIN SENSITIZATION

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is currently harmonized as Skin Sensitization Category 1B in the European Union.
Repeated skin exposure can therefore cause allergic response in susceptible individuals.
Gloves should be selected from actual permeation data for the intended contact duration.
Contaminated gloves and clothing should be removed promptly.
Cosmetic use at controlled concentration is evaluated differently from occupational contact with concentrated raw material.

EYE IRRITATION

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is currently harmonized as Eye Irritation Category 2.
Splash and mist contact should be prevented.
Safety glasses or goggles should be selected according to transfer and sampling risk.
Emergency eyewash should be available where bulk material is handled.
Eye exposure should be rinsed promptly according to the current SDS.

ACUTE TOXICITY

The current EU harmonized entry includes Acute Toxicity Category 4.
Ingestion of concentrated Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can therefore be harmful.
Older harmonized classifications also included an inhalation minimum classification, while the updated current entry should be followed for present EU labeling.
Aerosol and heated vapor exposure should still be minimized because concentrated airborne Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can irritate and produce systemic effects.
The current regional SDS should control workplace exposure measures.

FIRST AID

After eye contact, rinse cautiously with clean water for several minutes and obtain medical advice if symptoms persist or as directed by the current SDS.
After skin contact, wash exposed skin thoroughly and remove contaminated clothing.
After inhalation of high vapor or aerosol concentration, move the affected person to fresh air and seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
After accidental ingestion, rinse the mouth and seek professional medical guidance according to the current SDS.
Special pharmaceutical concerns regarding neonatal exposure do not change ordinary first-aid procedures for occupational raw-material contact.

SPILL MANAGEMENT

Stop the source of a Benzyl Alcohol (BA) spill when this can be done safely.
Prevent large quantities from entering drains, soil or surface water.
Use inert absorbent such as sand or another compatible nonreactive material.
Recovered liquid and contaminated absorbent should be placed in suitable labeled waste containers.
Ventilate enclosed areas where vapor concentration could build.
Current SDS and local waste regulations should govern final disposal.

FIRE RESPONSE

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is a combustible high-boiling organic liquid.
The flash point is substantially above ordinary room temperature, but hot liquid can ignite.
Combustion can produce carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and irritating smoke.
Suitable extinguishing media should be selected according to the surrounding fire and current SDS.
Firefighters may require self-contained breathing apparatus in significant chemical fires.
Containers exposed to heat should be cooled when this can be done safely.

STORAGE

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) should be stored in tightly closed compatible containers in a cool, dry and well-ventilated area.
Strong oxidizing agents should be segregated.
Containers should be protected from contamination, excessive heat and prolonged direct sunlight.
Repeated air exposure can promote oxidation to benzaldehyde and Benzoic Acid.
High-purity food, pharmaceutical and fragrance grades should be protected from odor cross-contamination.
The original package label and current SDS should control the approved storage conditions.

INCOMPATIBILITIES

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) reacts with strong oxidizing agents.
Strong oxidants can accelerate conversion to benzaldehyde, Benzoic Acid or more energetic oxidation products.
Some plastics can be attacked or swollen by Benzyl Alcohol (BA).
Material compatibility should therefore be checked for seals, hoses, liners and storage containers.
Strong acids and reactive acylating agents can convert Benzyl Alcohol (BA) into esters or other derivatives under suitable conditions.

TRANSPORT

Pure Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is generally not assigned a UN dangerous-goods number in common transport references because its flash point and hazard profile do not place it in the usual regulated flammable-liquid transport class.
Mixtures containing Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can still be transport-regulated because of other ingredients.
The current SDS for the exact commercial grade should control ADR, RID, IMDG, IATA and local transport status.
Do not infer mixture transport classification from the Benzyl Alcohol (BA) CAS Number alone.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is moderately water soluble and can enter wastewater if spills or formulation waste are discharged.
The substance is biodegradable under appropriate conditions and does not have the very high hydrophobicity associated with strongly bioaccumulative solvents.
Large releases can nevertheless create oxygen demand and aquatic exposure.
Waste solvent and contaminated wash streams should be managed according to local wastewater and waste rules.
Good process control also reduces raw-material loss and odor emissions.

REGULATORY CONSIDERATIONS

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is used across industrial, cosmetic, food, pharmaceutical, biocidal and plant-protection regulatory frameworks.
Requirements differ significantly by intended use.
EU cosmetics permit Benzyl Alcohol (BA) as preservative up to 1.0% and impose separate ingredient declaration thresholds for fragrance-related use.
Food and flavor applications require food-grade material and use according to the applicable regulatory category.
Pharmaceutical applications require appropriate compendial and product-specific quality controls.
The current EU harmonized hazard classification includes Acute Tox. 4, Eye Irrit. 2 and Skin Sens. 1B.
Ataman Chemicals can provide product-specific commercial documentation, while the downstream manufacturer remains responsible for finished-product compliance.

COMMON FORMULATION PROBLEMS

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) separates from an aqueous formulation
The formulation exceeds practical co-solvent compatibility. Increase surfactant or compatible co-solvent, reduce Benzyl Alcohol (BA), or redesign the solvent balance.

A clear concentrate becomes cloudy after dilution
Water content and hydrophobic ingredient load have shifted phase behavior. Test the actual use dilution and ionic strength.

Epoxy hardener is still too viscous
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) level may be too low or the base hardener may be highly oligomeric. Rebalance the hardener rather than adding uncontrolled solvent.

Epoxy hardener becomes too thin
Excess Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can reduce body and increase filler settlement or sag. Reduce level or strengthen rheology.

Epoxy floor cures too slowly
Check resin-hardener ratio, amine chemistry, temperature and accelerator balance. Benzyl Alcohol (BA) alone cannot compensate for an unsuitable hardener.

Epoxy floor cures quickly but final heat resistance is low
High Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can improve early cure while reducing final network density or Tg. Optimize for final service properties, not only early hardness.

Epoxy coating has poor chemical resistance
Excess retained Benzyl Alcohol (BA), off-ratio cure or insufficient cure can reduce resistance. Review hardener formulation and post-cure development.

Epoxy surface remains soft
Too much nonreactive diluent, low temperature or incorrect stoichiometry can leave the network underdeveloped.

Epoxy primer penetrates well but topcoat adhesion is poor
Residual surface contamination, amine blush or excessive solvent-like material can affect recoating. Check cure and surface preparation.

Self-leveling floor sags at edges
The binder is too low in viscosity. Adjust rheology rather than increasing filler indiscriminately.

Coating dries too slowly
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is high boiling and slow evaporating. Reduce level or rebalance with faster solvent where regulations permit.

Coating has poor leveling
The solvent package may evaporate too quickly despite Benzyl Alcohol (BA), or resin viscosity may be too high. Optimize the complete evaporation curve.

Paint remover acts too slowly
Coating chemistry may resist Benzyl Alcohol (BA) or formulation penetration may be poor. Adjust co-solvent, activator and thickener system.

Paint remover attacks plastic substrate
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can swell or attack certain plastics. Test substrate compatibility before use.

Ink stays wet too long
High Benzyl Alcohol (BA) level can delay drying. Reduce slow solvent or add a faster compatible component.

Ink dries in equipment despite Benzyl Alcohol (BA)
Other solvents may dominate evaporation or water balance may be unsuitable. Review the full solvent blend.

Fragrance odor changes during storage
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) may be oxidizing to benzaldehyde. Check aldehyde content, oxygen exposure and package compatibility.

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) develops yellow color
Oxidation, metal contamination or thermal history may be responsible. Hold the batch and review acid value and benzaldehyde.

Acid value increases
Oxidation toward Benzoic Acid is occurring. Improve storage and investigate air or metal exposure.

Benzaldehyde content rises
Oxidation of Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is occurring. Minimize heat, oxygen and catalytic contamination.

Refractive index is outside specification
Check temperature, water content, benzaldehyde and other solvent contamination.

Density is too low
Lower-density solvent contamination or elevated test temperature may be responsible. Confirm identity and test conditions.

Density is too high
Water, oxidation products or other contamination may be present. Investigate by chromatography and moisture analysis.

Food-grade material fails acid value
Oxidation or contamination may have increased acidity. Do not release against the food specification until investigated.

Food-grade material fails aldehyde limit
Benzaldehyde or related aldehyde impurity is too high. Hold the batch from release against the applicable specification.

Cosmetic preservative challenge test fails
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) alone may not provide adequate spectrum or concentration under the formulation conditions. Rebalance the preservative system and retest.

Cosmetic formulation contains more than 1% Benzyl Alcohol (BA) as preservative
The EU preservative maximum is 1.0%. Reformulate or reassess the function under current regulation.

Cosmetic label omits Benzyl Alcohol (BA)
For fragrance-related use, EU ingredient declaration thresholds are 0.001% in leave-on and 0.01% in rinse-off products. Review the total concentration and 
function.

Pharmaceutical formulation uses industrial grade
Industrial solvent grade is not interchangeable with pharmaceutical-grade Benzyl Alcohol (BA). Use material supported by the required compendial and GMP 
documentation.

Injectable formulation for neonates contains Benzyl Alcohol (BA)
Serious and fatal gasping syndrome has been associated with Benzyl Alcohol (BA) preservative exposure in premature neonates and low-birth-weight infants. 
Follow current drug labeling and use preservative-free formulation where required.

Food formulation uses industrial grade
Use a food-grade product supported by the applicable food or flavor specification.

Flavor concentrate becomes hazy in water
Hydrophobic flavor load exceeds the co-solvent capacity after dilution. Reformulate the carrier system.

Benzyl ester synthesis gives low yield
Water, inadequate catalyst or incomplete conversion can limit esterification. Review stoichiometry and water removal.

Benzyl benzoate color is high
Benzaldehyde or oxidized impurities in Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can contribute color. Use lower-color, lower-aldehyde feedstock.

Storage drum smells strongly of almonds
Benzaldehyde formation may have increased. Test the batch before high-purity use.

Product freezes or partially crystallizes in winter
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) melts around -15°C. Warm gradually using approved controlled heating and homogenize before sampling.

Customer asks whether Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is fully water miscible
No. Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is moderately soluble, around 40 g/L near room temperature, rather than completely miscible.

Customer asks whether Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is VOC-free
Low vapor pressure does not automatically mean VOC-free or VOC-exempt. Apply the regulatory definition used in the target market.

Customer asks whether BA is always benzyl-alcohol-free epoxy compatible
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is itself the substance excluded by benzyl-alcohol-free claims. A formulation containing BA cannot be described as benzyl-alcohol-free.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is Benzyl Alcohol (BA)?
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is a clear aromatic alcohol used as a solvent, preservative, fragrance ingredient, chemical intermediate and formulation modifier.

What is the CAS Number?
100-51-6.

What is the EC Number?
202-859-9.

What is the molecular formula?
C7H8O, also written C6H5CH2OH.

What is the molecular weight?
Approximately 108.14 g/mol.

What does BA mean?
BA is a common abbreviation for Benzyl Alcohol.

What is another chemical name?
Phenylmethanol is the IUPAC name; phenylcarbinol and benzenemethanol are also widely used synonyms.

What is the physical form?
A clear, colorless liquid.

What is the melting point?
Approximately -15°C.

What is the boiling point?
Approximately 205.3°C.

What is the density?
Approximately 1.04-1.05 g/cm³ around room temperature.

Is Benzyl Alcohol (BA) soluble in water?
Yes, but not completely miscible. OECD reference data give approximately 40 g/L at about 20°C.

What is the flash point?
Common experimental values are approximately 93-99°C, depending on test method.

What is the viscosity?
Approximately 4.5-5.5 cP near room temperature depending on method and temperature.

Is Benzyl Alcohol (BA) used in epoxy hardeners?
Yes. It is widely used in selected amine hardeners to reduce viscosity, improve compatibility and modify cure behavior.

Does Benzyl Alcohol (BA) react with epoxy resin?
It should not be treated as equivalent to a multifunctional amine curing agent. In typical formulated hardeners its main role is solvent-like viscosity reduction and cure modification rather than supplying normal amine AHEW.

Can Benzyl Alcohol (BA) improve low-temperature epoxy cure?
It can improve processability and apparent cure development in selected amine systems, but the actual minimum cure temperature depends on the hardener chemistry.

Can Benzyl Alcohol (BA) reduce epoxy chemical resistance?
Excessive retained Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can lower Tg or influence final chemical resistance, so the formulation should be optimized and tested.

Is Benzyl Alcohol (BA) used in cosmetics?
Yes. It can function as preservative, fragrance ingredient, solvent and viscosity-decreasing ingredient.

What is the EU cosmetic preservative limit?
Up to 1.0% when Benzyl Alcohol is used as a preservative.

What are the EU fragrance-related declaration thresholds?
0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products under the applicable ingredient-list requirement.

Is Benzyl Alcohol (BA) used in pharmaceuticals?
Yes. It is used as a preservative and solvent in selected pharmaceutical products, subject to route- and product-specific requirements.

Why is Benzyl Alcohol (BA) important in neonatal medicines?
Benzyl Alcohol preservative exposure has been associated with serious and fatal gasping syndrome in premature neonates and low-birth-weight infants, so preservative-free products are required or preferred where current labeling specifies.

Is Benzyl Alcohol (BA) used in food flavoring?
Yes. JECFA lists Benzyl Alcohol as a flavouring agent and carrier solvent under JECFA Number 25.

What is E1519?
E1519 is the European food-additive designation for Benzyl Alcohol in its regulated food-additive context.

What is the JECFA food-grade assay?
The referenced JECFA specification requires not less than 98.0% Benzyl Alcohol.

What is the current EU hazard classification?
The current harmonized classification includes Acute Tox. 4, Eye Irrit. 2 and Skin Sens. 1B.

Can Benzyl Alcohol (BA) be used as a paint remover solvent?
Yes. Its strong solvency and slow evaporation make it useful in selected paint and coating remover formulations.

Can Benzyl Alcohol (BA) oxidize during storage?
Yes. It can oxidize first to benzaldehyde and then to Benzoic Acid.

How should Benzyl Alcohol (BA) be stored?
Store it cool, dry and tightly closed, protected from strong oxidizers, excessive heat and contamination.

Is Benzyl Alcohol (BA) regulated as dangerous goods for transport?
Pure Benzyl Alcohol is generally not assigned a UN dangerous-goods number in common transport references, but the current SDS for the exact grade or mixture should control.

What documents should be checked before use?
Use the current Ataman Chemicals TDS, SDS and COA together with the regulatory and grade requirements for the intended industrial, cosmetic, food or pharmaceutical application.

FINAL TECHNICAL SUMMARY

Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is a defined aromatic alcohol with CAS Number 100-51-6, EC Number 202-859-9, molecular formula C7H8O and molecular weight approximately 108.14 g/mol.
The product is a clear colorless liquid with melting point around -15°C, boiling point around 205.3°C and density around 1.04-1.05 g/cm³.
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) has moderate water solubility of approximately 40 g/L near room temperature and broad compatibility with many organic solvents.

The high boiling point and low vapor pressure make Benzyl Alcohol (BA) useful as a slow-evaporating solvent, co-solvent and viscosity modifier.
Major industrial applications include epoxy hardeners, floorings, coatings, paints, inks, adhesives, paint removers, fragrances, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and chemical synthesis.
In epoxy systems, Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can reduce hardener and mixed-binder viscosity, improve wetting and leveling and support low-temperature application.
Because Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is not equivalent to a multifunctional amine curing agent, formulated-hardener AHEW should be used for epoxy stoichiometry.
Excess Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can influence final Tg, chemical resistance, migration and VOC profile, so final properties must be validated.
EU cosmetic rules permit Benzyl Alcohol (BA) as preservative up to 1.0%.

For fragrance-related cosmetic use, ingredient declaration thresholds include 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products.
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) is also a recognized food flavoring agent and carrier solvent under JECFA Number 25 and is associated with E1519 food-additive specifications.
Food and flavor specifications use assay not less than 98.0% together with limits on acidity, aldehydes and other purity parameters.
Pharmaceutical applications include preservative and solvent use, but premature neonates and low-birth-weight infants require special protection because Benzyl Alcohol preservative exposure has been associated with serious and fatal gasping syndrome.

Current EU harmonized classification includes Acute Toxicity Category 4, Eye Irritation Category 2 and Skin Sensitization Category 1B.
Benzyl Alcohol (BA) can oxidize to benzaldehyde and Benzoic Acid, so aldehyde content, acid value, color and storage condition are important quality parameters.
Industrial, cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical grades should not be treated as interchangeable simply because they share CAS Number 100-51-6.

For Benzyl Alcohol (BA) technical specifications, epoxy-formulation support, cosmetic or food-grade documentation, pharmaceutical requirements, TDS, SDS, COA and commercial supply, contact Ataman Chemicals with the intended application, purity requirement and packaging need.

Ataman Chemicals
Phone: +90 216 577 10 10
Email: info@atamankimya.com