Phenyl salicylate
CAS Number
118-55-8
EC Number
204-259-2
FEMA Number
FEMA 3960
What is Phenyl salicylate?
Phenyl salicylate (CAS 118-55-8), commercially known as salol, is an ester. Also marketed as salol; FEMA 3960.
Where is Phenyl salicylate used?
- Plastics and polymer manufacturing: UV absorber protecting resins and coatings from photodegradation, extending service life
- Pharmaceuticals: enteric coating agent and intermediate whose hydrolysis controls active ingredient release in the gastrointestinal tract
- Personal care and cosmetics: UV stabilization and mild preservative activity in sunscreens, creams, and topical products
- Food and beverage: flavoring agent imparting aromatic notes
- It functions as a UV absorber, preservative, and flavoring agent depending on the end-use sector.
Good to know: May also be referenced under FCC guidelines for food-grade purity. Produced to meet USP or BP standards.
Commercial specifications
- Packaging from kilogram-scale bags to bulk drums
Other Names (Synonyms)
salol|salicylic acid phenyl ester|phenyl-2-hydroxybenzoate|phenol salicylate|2-phenoxycarbonylphenol|2-hydroxy-benzoic acid phenyl ester|Salphenyl|Musol
What are the physical properties of Phenyl salicylate?
Melting Point 41-43 °C
Boiling Point 173 °C @ Press: 12 Torr
Density 1.25 g/cm³
Flash Point >230 °F
Appearance white crystalline solid with an aromatic odour
Color White
Odor at 100.00 %. mild sweet fruity balsam
Form Fine Crystalline Powder
Water Solubility Soluble in alcohol, ether, chloroform, turpentine, acetone and benzene. Sparingly soluble in chloroformbenzene. Insoluble in water.
Refractive Index 1.5090 (estimate)
Log P 3.55
How is Phenyl salicylate classified and handled safely? Learn More
Warning
GHS07· Irritant
Hazard Statements
H315 Causes skin irritation
H319 Causes serious eye irritation
H335 May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary Statements
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Phenyl salicylate?
HS Code 29182300
UN Number 3077
ADR Class 9
Packing Group III
Storage Class 11 - Combustible Solids
WGK (Germany) 2