Benzyl benzoate
Benzyl benzoate
Blog Article
Benzyl Benzoate is an organic compound with the chemical formula C14H12O2. Benzyl benzoate is a colorless liquid with a faint, sweet odor. Manufacturers commonly use it in various industrial, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications. This ester forms from the combination of benzyl alcohol and benzoic acid, and it is known for its versatility and effectiveness in different fields.
Key Properties of Benzyl Benzoate:
- Chemical Formula: C14H12O2
- Molecular Weight: 212.25 g/mol
- Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid
- Odor: Mild, sweet, and slightly balsamic
- Melting Point: 18°C (64°F)
- Boiling Point: 323°C (613°F)
- Density: 1.04 g/cm³ at 20°C
- Solubility: Soluble in alcohol, acetone, and ether; slightly soluble in water
Uses and Applications:
Pharmaceutical Applications:
- Topical Treatment for Scabies: Doctors apply benzyl benzoate topically as an acaricide to treat scabies and other mite-related skin conditions, relieving itching and eliminating infestations.
- Lice Treatment: It treats head and body lice infestations thanks to its insecticidal properties.
- Antifungal and Antibacterial: Benzyl benzoate helps treat minor skin infections with its mild antifungal and antibacterial properties, though it is less commonly used for this purpose.
Cosmetic and Personal Care Products:
- Fragrance and Solvent: Benzyl benzoate is used in perfumes, lotions, and personal care products for its sweet odor and as a solvent for other fragrance oils and active ingredients.
- Fixative in Perfumes: It acts as a fixative in perfumes, helping to stabilize and prolong the fragrance.
Industrial Applications:
- Plasticizer: It is used as a plasticizer in flexible PVC, enhancing plastic flexibility and durability.
- Solvent in Various Processes: Benzyl benzoate serves as a solvent in chemical processes, including dissolving resins and producing varnishes, coatings, and adhesives.
- Pesticide: It is an ingredient in some pesticide formulations due to its insecticidal properties.
Preservative in Foods:
Benzyl benzoate has limited use as a food preservative, particularly in acidic foods and beverages, due to its antimicrobial properties. Its use is regulated to prevent excessive exposure.
Chemical Behavior:
Benzyl benzoate remains relatively stable under normal conditions but breaks down when exposed to strong acids or bases. As an ester, it can hydrolyze back into its constituent alcohol (benzyl alcohol) and acid (benzoic acid) under certain conditions, particularly in the presence of water or acidic/ alkaline environments.
Safety and Handling:
- Toxicity: Experts consider benzyl benzoate to have low acute toxicity when used in recommended amounts. However, it can irritate the skin or cause allergic reactions in some individuals, especially with prolonged exposure. Therefore, users should handle this compound with care and wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Skin Irritation: In high concentrations, benzyl benzoate can cause skin irritation, burning sensations, or redness.
- Inhalation: Inhaling the vapor in high concentrations can cause respiratory irritation, but it is unlikely to be harmful in normal usage as found in cosmetics or medications.
- Environmental Impact: Benzyl benzoate biodegrades and is generally considered to have a low environmental impact when used in moderation. However, like all chemicals, users should dispose of it responsibly to prevent contamination of water or soil.
Conclusion:
Benzyl Benzoate is a versatile compound with a variety of uses in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industry. It is well-known for its insecticidal properties, particularly in the treatment of scabies and lice, and its pleasant fragrance makes it a valuable component in perfumes and personal care products. Additionally, it serves as a solvent, plasticizer, and preservative in various industrial applications. While generally safe when used appropriately, it should be handled with care to avoid irritation or allergic reactions.
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