Naphthalene
Description
Naphthalene (CAS 91-20-3), also known commercially as white tar and tar camphor, is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon derived primarily from coal tar and petroleum refining. It functions as a chemical intermediate and precursor feedstock across a broad range of industrial manufacturing processes.
In the pharmaceutical and agrochemical sectors, this compound serves as a key intermediate in synthesizing active ingredients, including fungicides and insecticides. It is also essential for producing drug compounds such as beta-blockers for medical applications.
Textile and leather processors use naphthalene-derived sulfonates as dispersants and leveling agents in dye baths. These chemical additives are critical for improving color uniformity across various fiber types and leather goods during the manufacturing cycle.
In the printing and packaging industries, it contributes to the production of phthalocyanine pigments used in high-quality inks and coatings. These pigments are valued for their stability and vibrant color properties in commercial printing.
Moth-repellent blocks and fumigant formulations for storage protection represent a direct end-product application in consumer and industrial pest control. The material acts as an effective biocide to protect fabrics and stored goods from insect damage.
The product is supplied as white flakes, pellets, or molten liquid for bulk industrial shipment. Technical grade is the most common specification, with purity levels typically ranging from ninety-six percent to over ninety-nine percent.
Refined grades meeting higher purity thresholds are available for pharmaceutical intermediate and specialty chemical manufacturing. These high-purity options ensure compliance with rigorous industrial standards for sensitive chemical synthesis and laboratory use.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 80.2 °C |
| Boiling Point | 217.9 °C @ Press: 760 Torr |
| Density | 1.162 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C |
| Flash Point | 174 °F |
| Appearance | Naphthalene is a colorless to brown crystalline solid with a characteristic “moth ball” odor. Shipped as a molten solid. |
| Color | White to almost white |
| Odor | at 10.00 % in benzyl benzoate. pungent dry tarry |
| Form | Faint beige to brown to salmon red powder |
| Water Solubility | 30 mg/L (25 ºC) |
| Vapor Pressure | 0.03 mm Hg ( 25 °C) |
| Refractive Index | 1.5821 |
| Log P | 3.7 at 25℃ |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29029010 |
| UN Number | 1334 |
| ADR Class | 4.1 |
| Packing Group | III |
| Storage Class | 4.1B - Flammable solid hazardous materials |
| WGK (Germany) | 3 |
Documentation
Other Names
white tar|tar camphor|Naphthene|Camphor tar|Mothballs|Tolboxane|Moth flakes
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