O-Cresol, 95-48-7 / Hazardous Substance Ecological Fact Sheet

Abstract

2-Cresol (2-methylphenol) is a crystalline solid at temperatures up to 30° C, above which it is a yellowish liquid. It has a phenolic odor, and darkens with exposure to air and light. It is used as a disinfectant, solvent, and food antioxidant; in the manufacture of dyes, perfumes, herbicides, plastics and resins; in ore flotation, and as an intermediate in the production of other chemicals. o-Cresol is highly soluble in water, and may enter the aquatic environment via effluents from chemical plants where it is manufactured or used, domestic waste treatment plant discharges, or spills.