Meta-Cresol (m-Methylphenol)

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Introduction

Meta Cresol can be used as a solvent for dissolving polymers.

General details

Names: m-cresol, m-cresylic acid, 3-methylphenol
CAS: 108-39-4.

Formula: CH3C6H4OH.

Properties: Colorless to yellowish liquid; phenol-like odor. D 1.034, mp 12C, bp 203C, wt/gal 8.66 lb, flash p 187F (86C), autoign temp 1038F (558C). Soluble in alcohol, ether, and chloroform; soluble in water.

Derivation: By fractional distillation of crude cresol (from coal tar), also synthetically.

Method of purification: Rectification.

Grade: Technical (95–98%).

Hazard: TLV: 5 ppm.

Specification

Safety Information

General

Synonyms: meta-cresol, 3-methylphenol, 3-cresol, meta-cresylic acid, m-cresylic acid, 3-hydroxytoluene, m-methylphenol, 1-hydroxy-3-methylbenzene, m-oxytoluene, m-cresole, m-toluol
Use: synthetic intermediate, component in disinfectants, wood preservatives, fumigants, paintbrush cleaning fluids
Molecular formula: CH3C6H4OH
CAS No: 108-39-4

Physical data

Appearance: colourless to light yellow liquid
Melting point: 11 C
Boiling point: 203 C
Vapour density:
Vapour pressure: 1 mm at 50 C
Density (g cm-3): 1.03
Flash point: 86 C
Explosion limits: 1.1 – 1.4%
Autoignition temperature: 558 C
Water solubility: moderate

Stability

Stable. Combustible. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, strong bases, strong acids, aluminium, aluminium alloys. Air and light sensitive. Hygroscopic.

Toxicology

Corrosive – may cause serious burns. Harmful if inhaled, and in contact with the skin. May be fatal if swallowed. Experimental neoplastigen. Typical TLV/TWA 5 ppm.