M-Cresol shows up in industry as a common organic chemical, forming part of a group known as methylphenols. The substance appears as a colorless to pale-yellow liquid at room temperature, though in cooler conditions it may solidify or form crystals. On picking up a bottle of it in a lab, the sharp, medicinal odor stands out, a reminder of its direct action and chemical potency. Some people might remember it from disinfectant production, but its use spans chemicals, pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, dyes, and resins. As for raw materials, you’ll see M-Cresol as both a starting point and an additive, a backbone in many chemical processes.
Chemically, M-Cresol carries the molecular formula C7H8O, with a molecular weight near 108.14 g/mol. The structure features a benzene ring substituted by a methyl group and a hydroxyl group at the meta position, which shapes its reactivity and affinity for other chemicals. Three isomers—ortho, meta, and para cresol—differ in methyl and hydroxyl arrangement around the ring, but meta (3-methylphenol) carves out its niche in specific synthesis routes. The configuration not only guides its properties but plays a role in how the substance interacts in chemical manufacturing.
From handling M-Cresol, the density hits around 1.03 g/cm3 at 25°C. Melting point sits at 11-12°C, so in chilly warehouses, you’ll find it looking slushy or in solid flakes. Its boiling point climbs to roughly 202°C, showing a decent thermal range for many chemical processes. Solubility proves moderate in water, while it dissolves easily in organic solvents like ethanol or ether. This makes M-Cresol adaptable in labs and factories, whether you need it in liquid form or incorporated into a more complex material. In spec sheets, the product might be listed as flakes, pearls, powder, or solution, with each form suiting a different application. Viscosity and vapor pressure shape handling and storage recommendations: exposure to air may release harmful vapors, and ventilation stands as a practical must for safety.
Application-wise, M-Cresol supports the manufacture of antioxidants, dyes, disinfectants, and vitamin E. Large chemical plants rely on M-Cresol to produce resins for electronics, adhesives, or rubber. Some labs use it to develop pharmaceuticals or preservatives, given its strong antiseptic qualities. The substance’s reactivity lets chemical engineers craft new molecules or modify polymers, and in research, small samples help illustrate concepts of aromatic substitution or phenolic reactivity. Having spent time in research settings, the value of a stable, predictable intermediate like M-Cresol becomes clear, streamlining pathways to crucial end products in healthcare and electronics. The usual HS Code for M-Cresol is 2907.12, required for cross-border trade and compliance.
Direct contact with M-Cresol causes chemical burns, and inhaling vapors irritates the nose, throat, and lungs. The compound absorbs quickly through the skin, so gloves, goggles, and lab coats matter every time. Chronic exposure can harm the central nervous system, kidneys, and liver—hard data links repeated handling to these effects, and material safety data sheets emphasize proper ventilation and tight storage. Most warehouse guidelines call for clear labeling, sealed containers, and temperature control, aiming to lower both physical and chemical risks. Disposal raises questions too: local regulations classify M-Cresol waste as hazardous, and improper handling puts workers and the environment at risk. Emergency response information, up-to-date antidotes, and accessible eyewash stations go hand-in-hand with use. In the event of spills, absorbent materials and thorough cleanup procedures keep accidental exposure in check.
For lab technicians or manufacturing operators tasked with preparing M-Cresol solutions, accurate density and concentration matter. Dissolving M-Cresol in solvents like ethanol or water follows strict ratios to achieve target properties—important for both quality control and safe application. Mixing must occur in ventilated areas or fume hoods, and all measurements need double-checking due to potential volatility or toxicity changes with concentration. Calibrating instruments, preparing standards, and regularly testing samples serve as day-to-day practices to catch any deviation. These steps reflect real-world scenarios where oversight or shortcuts put both products and people at risk.
Commercial-grade M-Cresol often arrives straight from tar distillation or petroleum processing, though some suppliers refine it from synthetic routes. Purity levels affect downstream reliability—a critical concern for high-stakes sectors like pharmaceuticals or semiconductors. Labs and buyers keep certificates of analysis close at hand, using them to vet suppliers and cross-check claims of content, moisture, and contaminant levels. Having reliable sources of raw material not only protects the end user but also secures batches against variability. Regular auditing, both by purchasing teams and independent quality inspectors, helps solidify this chain of trust.
Many jurisdictions put strict guidelines on the use, transportation, and disposal of M-Cresol. The chemical falls into categories of hazardous substances with mandatory reporting, exposure limits, and transport restrictions. Failing to comply brings financial penalties, public backlash, and hard-to-mend reputational damage. Industrial plants routinely install monitoring systems for air and water effluents containing cresols. Safety measures focus on spill containment and worker education. For workers new and seasoned, ongoing training assures quick, correct responses in emergencies. Environmental stewardship urges companies to invest in waste reduction, treatment technologies, and safer alternatives where possible, shrinking both costs and liability long term.
