Styrene oxide
Styrene oxide (CAS 96-09-3, C8H8O) is an organic epoxide with a molecular weight of 120.15 g/mol. This clear, colourless liquid serves as a reactive intermediate and a monomer in polymer science. Its epoxide ring readily undergoes ring-opening reactions, making it valuable in the synthesis of various organic compounds and polymers. Styrene oxide is primarily utilised in materials science and polymer research.
- IUPAC
- 1,2-Epoxyethylbenzene,Phenylethylene oxide,Phenyloxirane
- Synonyms
- 1,2-EpoxyethylbenzenePhenylethylene oxidePhenyloxirane

Epoxy Resin Synthesis
Styrene oxide can be polymerised to form poly(styrene oxide), a type of epoxy resin. These resins find applications in coatings, adhesives, and composite materials due to their good mechanical and thermal properties.
Chemical Synthesis Intermediate
As a versatile epoxide, styrene oxide acts as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various organic molecules. Its reactive epoxide group allows for nucleophilic attack, leading to the formation of substituted alcohols and other functionalised compounds.
Monomer for Specialty Polymers
It serves as a monomer in the creation of specialty polymers and copolymers. The incorporation of the styrene oxide unit can impart unique properties to the resulting polymer chains, influencing solubility, thermal stability, and reactivity.
| Molecular weight | 120.15 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C8H8O |
| Assay | 97% |
| Boiling point | 194 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 1.054 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.535(lit.) |
| Vapour pressure | <1 mmHg (20 °C) |
| Melting point | −37 °C(lit.) |
| Vapour density | 4.14 (vs air) |
| Autoignition temp | 928 °F |


Hazard statements
- H312Harmful in contact with skin
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H317May cause an allergic skin reaction
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H331Toxic if inhaled
- H340May cause genetic defects
- H350May cause cancer
Precautionary statements
- P201Obtain special instructions before use
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P305IF IN EYES
- P311Call a POISON CENTER or doctor
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 80 °C / 176 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 2810 6.1 / PGIII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | T |
| Risk statements (R) | 45-46-20/21-36/38-43 |
| Safety statements (S) | 53-26-36/37-45 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Expl Lim | ~22 % |
|---|
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 Styrene Oxide (CAS 96-09-3) used for?
+
Styrene oxide is used as a monomer for polymer science, in materials science, and as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of various organic compounds. It is particularly noted for its role in the production of epoxy resins and specialty polymers.
What are the CAS number and formula for Styrene Oxide?
+
The CAS number for Styrene Oxide is 96-09-3, and its empirical formula is C8H8O.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply for Styrene Oxide?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies Styrene Oxide with an assay of 97%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should Styrene Oxide be handled safely?
+
Styrene Oxide is a dangerous substance. It is classified with GHS06 and GHS08 symbols and carries the signal word 'Danger'. Hazards include H312 (Harmful in contact with skin), H315 (Causes skin irritation), H317 (May cause an allergic skin reaction), H319 (Causes serious eye irritation), H331 (Toxic if inhaled), H340 (May cause genetic defects), and H350 (May cause cancer). Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields, face shields, gloves, and a suitable respirator, and handle only in a well-ventilated area.
How is Styrene Oxide packed, shipped, and exported?
+
Styrene Oxide is packed and shipped in compliance with transportation regulations for hazardous materials. It is listed under UN 2810, Class 6.1, Packing Group III. Tech Serve Solutions exports globally.
How can I request a sample or quote for Styrene Oxide?
+
To request a sample or obtain a quote for Styrene Oxide, please contact our sales team through the TSS website or by phone, referencing the product name and CAS number.
▶ Related products

(2,3-Epoxypropyl)benzene
Polymer Science

(2-Boc-amino)ethyl methacrylate
C11H19NO4
Polymer Science
(3,5,5-Trimethylcyclohex-2-enylidene)malononitrile
Polymer Science

(3-Acrylamidopropyl)trimethylammonium chloride solution
Polymer Science

1,1,1-Trifluoro-2-(trifluoromethyl)-2-hydroxy-4-methyl-5-pentyl methacrylate
Polymer Science

1,1,1-Tris(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethane
Polymer Science

1,1-Cyclohexanediacetic acid
Polymer Science

1,12-Diisocyanatododecane
Polymer Science
▶ 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