2-Fluorophenol is an organic chemical belonging to the family of halogenated phenols. This compound shows up in the laboratory as a crystalline solid or a light-colored powder, depending on storage and purity. In the catalog of specialty chemicals, 2-Fluorophenol holds significance for researchers exploring fluorinated building blocks. Its molecular formula is C6H5FO, with the structure featuring a fluorine atom in the ortho position to the hydroxyl group attached to a benzene ring. Structurally, it mirrors other phenol derivatives, with fluorine bringing about differences in reactivity and safety requirements. The product often falls under HS code 290820, linking it squarely in the aromatic phenols for trade and customs handling.
At room temperature and atmospheric pressure, 2-Fluorophenol appears as flat flakes, crystalline chunks, or fine powder. Occasionally, one may encounter it as small pearls or in crystalline mass form, especially after recrystallization for purification. Strong aromatic notes, typical for substituted phenols, drift off even at low concentrations. The compound’s density rests around 1.27 g/cm3, a little heavier than water, so spills tend to sink in aqueous solutions. The melting point hovers near 34 °C to 36 °C, with a boiling range from 180 °C to 182 °C. On gentle heating, the solid softens into a clear liquid, showing the shift from ordered crystal lattice to mobile molecules. These phase transitions matter for storage and transport. In solution, 2-Fluorophenol dissolves in polar solvents like ethanol, ether, and sometimes water, the latter helped by the hydroxyl group that forms hydrogen bonds. Handling the raw material as a liquid opens up routes for chemical synthesis, while the solid or powdered forms prove more convenient for long-term storage and weighing.
For research and manufacturing, purity of 2-Fluorophenol draws a line between reliable results and unpredictable behavior. Spectrometric techniques like NMR and infrared back purity claims, revealing the absence or presence of related impurities such as isomers or unreacted phenol. A typical lab-grade sample reads over 98% pure, while technical material sometimes skirts lower purity depending on synthesis. Material safety data sheets highlight fine distinctions in state. For example, a powder will yield faster dissolution, while large flakes or crystals may benefit from grinding. Consistency matters most when batching for chemical reactions—the density, melting point, and state all contribute to accurate measurement and control of processes. Correct labeling with batch numbers and documentation fits the safety and traceability requirements under customs and regulatory guidelines tied to the HS code.
Chemists value 2-Fluorophenol as a versatile intermediate because of its molecular structure. The benzene ring resists attack from many reagents, yet the hydroxyl group at the ortho position to fluorine creates a spot for further transformation. Electrophilic substitution reactions slow down, and nucleophilic substitutions become more selective due to the fluorine effect. I have worked with this compound in small-scale synthesis of agrochemical precursors. It’s clear how the interplay of fluorine and oxygen changes the way molecules react. The molecular weight of 2-Fluorophenol clocks in at 112.10 g/mol, which matters for calculating molar ratios and scaling up reactions. The arrangement of the atoms lends itself to unique hydrogen bonding patterns, which can influence crystal packing and solubility, sometimes helping with separation and purification steps.
Handling 2-Fluorophenol brings responsibility, as it presents both chemical and toxicological risks. The chemical’s vapors and dust can irritate eyes, respiratory tract, and skin. Direct contact sometimes leads to burns or dermatitis, especially in powder or liquid form. As a moderately hazardous substance, 2-Fluorophenol needs respect—this isn’t something to treat lightly. Material safety data sheets flag harmful effects on ingestion, inhalation, or prolonged exposure. The compound, like many phenols, is toxic in large amounts; I’ve seen accidental skin contact in lab settings quickly lead to burning sensations and redness. Splash goggles, nitrile gloves, and proper ventilation provide essential barriers. Spillage should go into designated hazardous waste bins, never down the drain, since phenolic compounds persist in water supplies and pose harm to aquatic environments. Storage in tightly sealed glass or HDPE bottles in cool, dry places prevents the compound from absorbing moisture or reacting with air. Emergency protocols matter in any facility using this raw material, highlighting the need for clear labeling, training, and first aid access.
In industrial settings, 2-Fluorophenol plays a role as a building block for pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and performance materials. It serves as a raw material for synthesizing herbicide intermediates, dye precursors, and active pharmaceutical ingredients. This function explains its steady demand and inclusion in many specialty chemical inventories. Its specific properties—combining a reactive hydroxyl with an electron-withdrawing fluorine—create new opportunities in drug development, where small tweaks to phenolic structure can improve activity and safety. I’ve noticed that fine chemical labs stock this compound routinely, both for custom synthesis and for developing new reaction methodologies. Its crystalline and powder forms ensure accurate measurements in scaling reactions, and its solubility in different solvents helps with process optimization. Markets track purity, supply chain stability, and regulatory updates for 2-Fluorophenol, as these factors influence price and availability for manufacturers relying on high-quality raw materials.
Every bottle of 2-Fluorophenol should display core information: molecular formula C6H5FO, molecular weight 112.10 g/mol, density roughly 1.27 g/cm3, melting point about 34–36 °C, and boiling point near 180–182 °C. Physical state (flakes, powder, crystals, liquid) depends on how it is handled. Customs HS code 290820 lets traders flag shipments properly, keeping regulatory processes clear. Safety markings must highlight irritant, harmful, and hazardous warnings. Research, manufacturing, and laboratory users all benefit from clear labeling, accurate safety data, and high-standard purity. Having worked with this compound, I’ve found reliability in quality and supply is critical—as is a healthy respect for its risks and potential impacts if mishandled.
