2,5-Xylenol belongs to a family of organic compounds known as methylphenols, with the molecular formula C8H10O. Its structure features a benzene ring carrying two methyl groups and a hydroxyl group at the 2 and 5 positions. This arrangement shapes not only the compound’s physical traits but also its reactivity and applications across several fields. In my own experience working around solvents and industrial feedstocks, a clear grasp of such details means fewer headaches whether you handle, transport, or process these chemicals.
The substance often presents itself as pale yellow to white flakes, but under certain processing conditions, one might encounter a powder, solid pearl, or crystalline form. The solid flakes move easily from bag to vessel, which lends itself to bulk industry use. As for density, 2,5-Xylenol carries a specific gravity around 1.04 g/cm³ at 20°C. It shows limited solubility in water, though it does better in organic solvents—something familiar to technicians mixing resins or preparing analytical solutions in the lab. On the molecular level, the presence of both methyl and hydroxyl groups influences its melting point, volatility, and reaction pathways. The structural arrangement also means 2,5-Xylenol offers a boiling point near 215°C and a melting point just above 60°C, so it shifts from solid flakes to liquid as temperatures rise.
The Harmonized System (HS) Code for 2,5-Xylenol is 2908.10, which lines it up with other phenols for customs classification. Accurate HS coding keeps things clear at ports and in customs paperwork, so companies avoid unnecessary delays or regulatory complications. Labeling with this code and the correct chemical description is essential for maintaining supply chain transparency and compliance.
Dealing with 2,5-Xylenol means learning about its safety and potential hazards. It delivers a sharp, chemical odor, and in raw or concentrated form, it can harm skin, eyes, and the respiratory system. Based on published toxicology data, direct contact or prolonged exposure sometimes causes irritation or more severe health effects. Proper storage—away from heat, open flames, and incompatible substances—keeps workers and the environment safe. Anyone handling raw 2,5-Xylenol should take personal protective equipment seriously. Leaks or spills, for instance, call for containment measures and prompt cleanup with non-sparking tools, given the flammability of methylated phenols. In my time around chemical storage areas, those who respected these protocols spared themselves fines, injuries, and downtime.
The compound enters the market as a chemical intermediate in resin production, dyes, pharmaceuticals, and sometimes as an additive in disinfectants or agrochemicals. Product formulators value its reactivity and ability to introduce methyl and hydroxyl functionality into target molecules. In practice, finding materials in preferred forms—crystals for labs, flakes for bulk, solutions for formulations—allows chemists to match the physical specifications with processing requirements. Industry sources report a preference for dry, solid forms when purity and stability matter most, while pre-mixed solutions serve blending or dilution tasks on the production floor.
Molecularly, the structure CH3C6H3(CH3)OH outlines both the potential and the risk profile. The benzene ring carries electron-donating methyl groups at the ortho and para positions relative to the hydroxyl, which fosters certain substitution and oxidation reactions. These structural details influence regulations and safe chemical handling guidelines. Typical product specifications in industry often call for assay purity above 98%, controlled moisture content, and clarity in appearance. Bulk purchases might require batch certification, residual solvent analysis, and documentation for trace contaminants, considering downstream uses.
The chemical’s hazardous profile arises from its volatility, possible toxicity, and flammability. According to standard hazard communication systems, 2,5-Xylenol counts as an irritant and a health hazard. Spills in liquid or powder form mean not only cleanup risks but potential environmental impact if released into soil or water systems. Waste management protocols include incineration or approved chemical treatment, limiting runoff and exposure to animals or plants. Just this past year, I saw how tight adherence to local waste rules averted environmental citations during a routine facility audit. Straightforward labeling, the right training, and proper storage practices matter a lot more than most realize for daily operations and regulatory peace of mind.
Producers often use methylation of phenol or cresol as the industrial synthesis route, followed by purification steps to reach commercial grade. This background explains the need for reliable suppliers, validated supply chains, and certified testing at each step. Chemical buyers who prioritize traceability, consistency, and compliance tend to avoid costly recalls, regulatory headaches, or quality complaints down the road. Close attention to producer documentation—SDSs, technical data, and transport certificates—makes a real difference on plant floors and in quality control labs. In my years following supply logistics, the facilities that built good supplier relationships ran smoother, shipped more product, and fielded fewer complaints from regulatory bodies or customers.
