2-Phenoxyethanol
2-Phenoxyethanol (CAS: 122-99-6, Formula: C6H5OCH2CH2OH, MW: 138.16) is a versatile organic compound primarily used as a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products due to its antimicrobial properties. It also functions as a solvent, a coalescing agent in paints, and an intermediate in chemical synthesis. With a boiling point of 244-246 °C and a density of 1.107 g/mL, it offers excellent stability and efficacy in various formulations. Tech Serve Solutions supplies high-purity 2-Phenoxyethanol for diverse industrial applications.
- IUPAC
- Ethylene glycol monophenyl ether,PHE-G,PHE-S,PHE,PhG,Phenylglycol
- Synonyms
- Ethylene glycol monophenyl etherPHE-GPHE-SPHEPhGPhenylglycol

Cosmetic Preservative
2-Phenoxyethanol is widely employed as a broad-spectrum preservative in cosmetics, skincare, and personal care items. It effectively inhibits the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mould, extending product shelf life and ensuring consumer safety. Its compatibility with a wide range of ingredients makes it a preferred choice in many formulations.
Solvent and Coalescing Agent
This compound acts as an effective solvent for resins and dyes, finding use in ink and paint formulations. As a coalescing agent, it aids in the film formation of latex paints, improving coating properties and durability. Its low volatility contributes to controlled drying times.
Chemical Synthesis Intermediate
Utilised as a building block in organic synthesis, 2-Phenoxyethanol serves as a precursor for various chemical intermediates and end products. Its reactive hydroxyl group allows for further functionalisation in complex reaction pathways.
Pharmaceutical Applications
In some pharmaceutical preparations, 2-Phenoxyethanol may be used for its solvent or preservative properties. Its efficacy against microbial contamination is valuable in ensuring the stability and safety of certain drug formulations, subject to regulatory approval.
| Molecular weight | 138.16 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | C6H5OCH2CH2OH |
| Assay | 99% |
| Boiling point | 244-246 °C |
| Density | 1.107 g/mL at 20 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.537(lit.) |
| Vapour pressure | 0.01 mmHg (20 °C) |
| Melting point | 11-13 °C |
| Vapour density | 4.8 (vs air) |
| Impurities tested | ≤0.5% Phenol<10% diethylene glycol phenyl ether |

Hazard statements
- H302Harmful if swallowed
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
Precautionary statements
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 121 °C / 249.8 °F |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 1 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xn |
| Risk statements (R) | 22-36 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is 2-Phenoxyethanol (CAS 122-99-6) used for?
+
2-Phenoxyethanol is primarily used as a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products, a solvent, a coalescing agent in paints, and an intermediate in chemical synthesis.
What are the CAS number and chemical formula for 2-Phenoxyethanol?
+
The CAS number for 2-Phenoxyethanol is 122-99-6, and its chemical formula is C6H5OCH2CH2OH.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply for 2-Phenoxyethanol?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies 2-Phenoxyethanol with an assay of 99%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade unless explicitly stated in the product specifications.
What are the main safety hazards associated with 2-Phenoxyethanol?
+
2-Phenoxyethanol is classified with GHS07 and carries the signal word 'Warning'. It has hazard statements H302 (Harmful if swallowed) and H319 (Causes serious eye irritation). Appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields and chemical-resistant gloves, should be used.
How is 2-Phenoxyethanol packed, shipped, and exported by Tech Serve Solutions?
+
2-Phenoxyethanol is carefully packed and handled according to its hazard classification to ensure safe transit. We expertly manage global export procedures for various chemical compounds.
How can I request a sample or quote for 2-Phenoxyethanol?
+
To request a sample or a quote for 2-Phenoxyethanol, please contact our sales team through the website or by phone, providing your specific requirements.
▶ Related products

1-(2-Fluorobenzyl)piperazine
C11H15FN2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)biguanide hydrochloride
Chemical Synthesis

1-(2-Fluorophenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid
C10H9FO2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)piperazine
C10H13FN2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)piperazine monohydrochloride
C10H13FN2 · HCl
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Furoyl)-1H-benzotriazole
C11H7N3O2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Furoyl)piperazine
C9H12N2O2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)-3-phenyl-1,3-propanedione
Chemical Synthesis
▶ Explore more

3-Methyl-1,5-di-p-tolyl-1,4-pentazadiene
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1,5-pentanediol
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1-(2-methylphenyl)-1H-pyrazol-5-amine
C11H13N3
Chemical Synthesis
3-Methyl-1-(3′-sulfoamidophenyl)-5-pyrazolone
C10H11N3O3S
Chemical Synthesis