3-Fluorophenol stands out as an organofluorine compound recognized for its appearance as a solid crystalline substance at room temperature. Many who have handled aromatic chemicals come across its sharp, somewhat medicinal aroma that marks most phenol derivatives substituted with halogens. Its formula, C6H5FO, describes a six-carbon benzene ring holding one hydroxyl group and a fluorine atom in the meta- position, giving the molecule its unique set of attributes. This material often appears as colorless needles or powder, but under less controlled storage, it might turn slightly off-white due to light sensitivity or minor oxidation. Its CAS number is 372-20-3.
People familiar with this compound notice its physical state changes slightly with temperature, but under standard laboratory conditions, it keeps a solid form. In labs and facilities, it mostly shows up as flakes, crystalline powder, or occasionally as small pearls, giving a clue to its purity level and ease of weighing. Its density sits close to 1.3 g/cm3. Melting point typically reaches about 32°C, making melting and recrystallization straightforward for chemists. The boiling point hovers around 185°C under atmospheric pressure. These specifics allow for precise planning in synthesis or purification. Its solubility in water draws attention — it dissolves more easily than many halogenated aromatics because the hydroxyl group forms hydrogen bonds. This means that spills or leaks mix more readily into water than many assumed. In alcohol, ether, and common organic solvents, it blends rapidly and completely.
Looking at its molecular structure, 3-Fluorophenol carries both an electron-withdrawing element (fluorine) and an activating group for substitutions (hydroxyl). You see a benzene ring with a fluorine atom at the third position relative to the oxygen. This matters in reactivity and downstream chemistry. Those who have synthesized more complex molecules know this arrangement directs reactions to specific sites, often guiding further substitutions or protecting groups in the right direction.
Everyday industrial and laboratory settings use 3-Fluorophenol mainly as a raw material for agrochemical, pharmaceutical, and dye intermediates. Synthetic chemists often count on it as a building block for more elaborate aromatic compounds. Its data sheet lists it as a known precursor in the creation of fluorinated drugs and pesticides, where the electron-deficient ring aids in tuning biological activity. Anyone working with specialty polymers or advanced intermediates will notice its footprint on synthesis routes.
Manufacturers report specifications with high clarity: purity above 98% appears as the basic industry threshold for most downstream applications. Impurities get significant scrutiny, especially for pharmaceutical-grade supply. Moisture, heavy metal content, and residue on ignition typically fall well below 0.5%, with certified quality labs ensuring every kilogram matches the lab data. Bulk shipping generally stays in solid form; when moved as a solution, concentrations and solvents appear clearly labeled. Its HS Code is 2908.99 for international shipments, pointing to halogenated phenols.
Safety professionals always flag the hazards associated with 3-Fluorophenol. The compound can cause irritation to eyes, skin, and respiratory tract, so gloves, lab coats, and splash goggles become non-negotiable. Long-term or repeated contact risks dermatitis and possible systemic effects because phenol and some of its derivatives move through the skin more than most expect. It earns classification as harmful if swallowed or inhaled, and a few case reports mention hemolytic activity, so it deserves respect despite its usefulness as a chemical tool. Emergency showers and fume hoods reduce risk notably. The substance carries aquatic toxicity, especially in concentrated forms, so discharge into surface waters always triggers cleanup protocols and regulatory checks.
Storage recommendations reflect its reactive nature. Kept in tightly sealed glass or high-density polyethylene containers away from heat or direct sunlight, it keeps its stability through standard shelf lives of one to two years. Acid-sensitive and base-sensitive, 3-Fluorophenol should never sit next to strong oxidizers or reducing agents, as unexpected reactions might run hot fast. Ambient humidity speeds up degradation. Those of us who have seen bulk containers degrade know the value of desiccant packs and periodic lot checks.
Analytical chemists recognize 3-Fluorophenol as a standard or reference in GC and HPLC setups, thanks to its easily identified peaks. In solution, it usually appears at concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 10% w/v, matched to application needs. Industrial users searching for compatibility with existing manufacturing lines often dissolve it in ethanol or dichloromethane for seamless integration. This forms the heart of scale-up work that pushes novel fluorinated intermediates from bench to pilot plant.
Large-scale users hunt for steady raw material sources to avoid production interruptions. Regional supply chains differ greatly in reliability; European and North American suppliers often ship under strict REACH compliance, and Asian producers have ramped up consistency following global regulatory pushes. Transportation in solid form lowers risk, but safety data sheets must travel with every consignment.
Seeing the full set of hazards and uses, one learns to appreciate how routine training and automation in chemical plants reduce worker risk and loss. Closed-loop systems, smart monitor alarms for temperature and leaks, and proper user education do more than just tick compliance boxes—they keep people healthy and reduce costs from downtime and waste. Looking at future improvements, greener processes using less energy and water, and recycling phenolic residues, set a strong example of responsible stewardship for the chemical industry.
