2-phenylethanol

CAS: 60-12-8

Overview

2-Phenylethanol ( CAS 60-12-8 ), also known as phenethyl alcohol and phenyl ethyl alcohol ( FEMA 2858 ), is a naturally occurring aromatic alcohol with a characteristic rose-like scent.

It functions as a fragrance ingredient, flavoring agent, and antimicrobial preservative across food, cosmetic, and industrial applications. In personal care and cosmetics, it is used as a primary fragrance component.

It acts as a broad-spectrum preservative in lotions, shampoos, and liquid soaps, where it inhibits bacterial and yeast growth. Food and beverage manufacturers incorporate it as a FEMA-approved flavoring.

This ingredient is used to impart floral rose notes in confectionery, baked goods, and beverages. Printing and packaging operations use it as a solvent and additive in flexographic and gravure inks.

In these industrial settings, it supports controlled drying and ink stability. It also functions as an intermediate in the synthesis of fragrance compounds and phenethyl esters used in fine fragrance production.

2-Phenylethanol is supplied as a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid. It is available in food-grade and cosmetic-grade specifications, with FCC and natural-origin grades commonly stocked.

These high-purity grades are ideal for flavor and fragrance applications. Technical-grade material is also available for industrial and ink formulation use cases to meet specific manufacturing needs.

Physical Properties

Melting Point	-27 °C
Boiling Point	218.2 °C @ Press: 760 Torr
Density	1.0202 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point	216 °F
Appearance	colourless liquid
Color	Clear colorless
Odor	floral odor of roses
Form	Liquid
Water Solubility	20 g/L (20 ºC)
Vapor Pressure	1 mm Hg ( 58 °C)
Refractive Index	n 20/D 1.5317(lit.)
pH	6-7 (20g/l, H2O, 20℃)
Log P	1.50

Safety & Handling

Warning GHS07 GHS06 GHS08 GHS05 Hazard Statements H302 Harmful if swallowed H311 Toxic in contact with skin H318 Causes serious eye damage H319 Causes serious eye irritation H336 May cause drowsiness or dizziness H361 Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child H371 May cause damage to organs Precautionary Statements P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use. P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P262 Do not get in eyes, on skin, or on clothing. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P317 Get emergency medical help. P318 IF exposed or concerned, get medical advice. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P308+P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P361+P364 Take off immediately all contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. P305+P354+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code	29062990
Storage Class	10 - Combustible liquids
WGK (Germany)	1

Other Names

Industries

Printing & Packaging Food & Nutrition Personal Care & Cosmetics