2-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol comes from the family of aromatic diols, marked by its benzene ring and two hydroxyl groups positioned on the first and third carbons. With the molecular formula C9H12O2 and a molar mass of 152.19 g/mol, this compound has found itself used widely in chemical processes, especially when unique reactivity or structural features are sought. It lands under the HS Code 290620, which covers phenols and their derivatives. In practice, its solid state most often appears as crystalline flakes, granules, or as a powder at room temperature, although some suppliers offer variants processed into pearls for easier handling in bulk-scale reactions.
Looking at the structure, each molecule holds a phenyl ring attached to a propane backbone, with hydroxyl groups spread apart from each other. This spacing allows for distinctive hydrogen bonding and solubility behavior, which set it apart from compounds like benzyl alcohol or other similar aromatic diols. Under standard conditions, 2-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol appears as white to off-white flakes or as a crystalline solid with a faint, sweetish odor. With its density measured near 1.13 g/cm³, it settles well in storage containers, which makes it easy to weigh and dose without excessive loss as dust.
The compound’s melting point sits around 74-79 °C, which means it handles moderate heat before turning into a liquid; careful melting does not cause decomposition, so it keeps its structural integrity for many synthetic applications. Its solubility favors organic solvents like ethanol, ether, and chloroform, but its water solubility stays limited. Reliable purity for research or industrial use commonly reaches 98% or better, a quality appreciated by both laboratory chemists and production managers who depend on predictable results.
Suppliers deliver 2-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol as free-flowing flakes, granules, pearls, solid chunks, or occasionally as a fine powder. Some companies cater to customers by offering it in custom-packed bottles, fiber drums, or flexible sacks for industrial-scale operations. For liquid delivery in solution form, concentrations need careful control because excess heat or solvent shift can cause crystallization or precipitation. The crystalline nature gives it a stable shelf life if protected from humidity and strong acids or bases.
In laboratory settings, I have received jars packed under inert gas, a practice that prevents oxidative yellowing of the flakes and ensures a long shelf period. Large-scale producers often cite common parameters such as melting point, purity, density, residual moisture, and impurity profile in their certificates of analysis. These aspects become crucial for downstream applications, including the synthesis of drugs, fine chemicals, and certain polymers where contaminant levels can affect product quality.
This diol performs best when called upon as an intermediate for pharmaceutical and agrochemical manufacturing. Its reactivity allows the addition of further groups, or for building more complex aromatic systems. Chemists favor the stability of the benzyl motif, alongside the spacing of hydroxyl groups, as this leads to less steric hindrance in downstream reactions. I have used it to prepare specialized polyesters, where the rigidity of the phenyl ring imparts the needed mechanical strength in the final material. It also appears in research studies into new photoinitiators and UV-absorbers, owing to its electron-rich aromatic ring.
When handled properly, 2-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol gives reliable yields and helps cut down on purification steps, as its solid form enables straightforward filtration and washing. Across pharmaceutical labs, researchers value the predictability this chemical brings to multi-step syntheses. Some companies reference its use in fragrance intermediates and in specialty plasticizers, where its nonvolatile, solid state gives a steady release and safe handling.
Every chemical brings its own set of handling rules, and 2-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol belongs to the group of aromatic alcohols which call for gloves, goggles, and proper skin protection during any transfer or manipulation. Dust generation should be kept low, as inhalation can irritate the respiratory system. Although its oral toxicity remains low compared to many other chemicals in the same category, ingestion or skin contact can cause mild irritation; incidents in my lab usually end with simple washing and monitoring for delayed reactions. Lab safety data sheets indicate a need for good ventilation, especially when weighing out powder or dispersing solid form into solvents.
For waste disposal, standard organic disposal procedures apply—the compound breaks down under strong oxidants but does not immediately threaten watercourses or air quality at reasonable lab quantities. Exposure limits in standard chemical environments typically line up with those for structurally similar alcohols and glycols, meaning local regulations can be easily met. Long-term storage demands airtight containers and a dry, cool space, away from acids and oxidizers to avoid unwanted degradation or hazardous byproducts.
Companies looking to ramp up production capacity need a chemical supply chain that guarantees a stable, high-purity feedstock, as off-spec raw materials lead to batch failures and extra purification steps downstream. Robust supplier relationships and regular screening for contaminants like residual benzyl alcohol or related diols solves this. Another concern involves environmental impact—the starting materials for 2-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol often derive from fossil sources, so producers should look for greener syntheses or partner with suppliers adopting more sustainable chemistry. For packaging, my best experience comes from double-sealed drums that withstand swings in temperature and humidity, cutting down on product loss and hazard risk during transit.
Switching between flake, granule, or pearl forms impacts dosing efficiency in automated feeders for continuous production; selecting the right physical form prevents equipment clogging and reduces clean-up. In liquid solution, maintaining consistent concentration and solvent compatibility has kept many projects on track—such controls require in-house quality checks alongside supplier documentation. Training staff on appropriate handling, storage, and emergency first aid lowers the risk of accidents. To support safe use, manufacturers and end-users benefit when suppliers provide full documentation: not just safety data, but also environmental, health, and toxicity studies reviewed by independent third parties.
2-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol offers more than just another chemical intermediate; its reliability, strong physical properties, and clear reactivity make it essential in modern synthesis routes both in drug and specialty chemical manufacture. Physical forms such as solid flakes, powder, granules, or pearls are available. Key values, like density at 1.13 g/cm³ and melting point of 74-79 °C, give end-users confidence in its performance from bench to bulk scale. When prioritized in procurement and integrated responsibly into processes, this raw material gives manufacturers, researchers, and product developers a strong foundation for downstream success—so long as safe handling, proper documentation, and sustainable supply remains the focus.
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