For professionals in the chemical industry, understanding the properties and sourcing nuances of key compounds is fundamental to efficient operations. Benzyl Alcohol (CAS 100-51-6) is one such compound—a versatile aromatic alcohol with a broad range of applications, making it a staple in many industrial supply chains. This guide aims to equip chemical buyers with practical insights for procuring Benzyl Alcohol.

Understanding Benzyl Alcohol: Properties and Uses

Benzyl Alcohol is a clear, colorless liquid with a mild, pleasant, aromatic odor. Its chemical structure (C7H8O) endows it with several key properties that drive its widespread use:

  • Solvency: It is an excellent solvent for various organic materials, including resins, inks, dyes, and coatings. This makes it invaluable in the manufacturing of paints, lacquers, and printing inks.
  • Low Volatility and Toxicity: Compared to many other organic solvents, Benzyl Alcohol exhibits lower vapor pressure and a relatively low toxicity profile, enhancing workplace safety and reducing environmental impact.
  • Intermediate Functionality: It serves as a precursor for synthesizing a multitude of esters and ethers, which find applications in fragrances, flavors, and pharmaceuticals.
  • Preservative Properties: Its antimicrobial action makes it useful as a preservative in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and some industrial products.

Key Applications for Chemical Buyers:

  • Industrial Coatings & Paints: As a solvent, it aids in formulation and application.
  • Ink Manufacturing: Essential for dissolving dyes and ensuring ink stability.
  • Pharmaceutical Intermediates: A building block for APIs and a preservative in formulations.
  • Cosmetics & Personal Care: Used as a preservative, solvent, and fragrance component.
  • Agrochemicals: Can be found in some pesticide formulations.

Strategic Sourcing for Chemical Buyers

When purchasing Benzyl Alcohol, several factors are critical for ensuring a successful procurement:

  • Purity and Grade: Determine the required purity based on your application. For industrial use, technical grades are common, while pharmaceutical or cosmetic applications demand higher purity (e.g., ≥99.5%). Always request a Certificate of Analysis (CoA).
  • Supplier Selection: Identify reputable Benzyl Alcohol manufacturers and suppliers. Consider their production capacity, quality control measures, and ability to provide consistent supply. Companies often look to buy Benzyl Alcohol from established manufacturers in regions like China, known for their competitive pricing and large-scale production.
  • Pricing and Volume: Obtain quotes for bulk orders to leverage economies of scale. Understanding the market price for Benzyl Alcohol (per kg or ton) will help in negotiation.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Ensure the supplier can provide documentation confirming compliance with relevant industry standards and regulations for your specific market.

Finding Reliable Suppliers

To effectively buy Benzyl Alcohol, utilize industry-specific search terms such as 'Benzyl Alcohol manufacturer,' 'buy Benzyl Alcohol CAS 100-51-6,' or 'wholesale Benzyl Alcohol supplier.' Engaging directly with potential partners to discuss your needs, request samples, and review technical specifications is essential. A strong supplier relationship ensures not only the quality of the chemical but also the stability of your production line.

By approaching the procurement of Benzyl Alcohol with a clear understanding of its properties and a strategic sourcing approach, chemical buyers can secure a valuable and versatile compound for their diverse industrial needs.