WHAT IS IT?
Phenol (C₆H₅OH) is an aromatic organic compound — a benzene ring with a hydroxyl group. It is a colourless to white crystalline solid at room temperature (melting point 41°C), often handled as a liquid by keeping it slightly above melting point. It is produced exclusively via the cumene process alongside acetone.
HOW IS IT MADE?
Benzene + Propylene → Cumene → Cumene Hydroperoxide → Phenol + Acetone
About 1.7 tonnes cumene required per tonne phenol. Co-produces 0.62 tonnes acetone per tonne phenol.
KEY USES
Bisphenol A (BPA) production (largest use ~40%): Phenol + Acetone → BPA → Polycarbonate and Epoxy resins
Phenolic Resins (~25%): Phenol + Formaldehyde → PF resins for plywood binders, brake pads, insulation
Caprolactam (~15%): Via cyclohexanone route → Nylon-6 (PA6)
Alkylphenols → surfactants and antioxidants
Bisphenol F (BPF): Alternative to BPA for epoxy systems
BPA/PC/EPOXY CHAIN
Phenol → BPA → Polycarbonate (PC): Optical lenses, phone/laptop cases, greenhouse panels
Phenol → BPA → Epoxy Resin: Coatings, adhesives, wind turbine blades, circuit boards
This chain makes phenol critically linked to electronics and construction cycles.
TRADE CORRIDORS
Major producers: China, South Korea (KUMHO Petrochemical), Japan, Taiwan, USA
Major buyers: Southeast Asia, China, India, Europe
Tetra relevance: South Korea is a major phenol/acetone exporter to Southeast Asia.
PRICING BASIS
No formal exchange. CFR China, FOB Korea main references. Tracks benzene and propylene upstream. BPA and caprolactam margins drive downstream pull.
SPECIFICATIONS
Purity: min 99.5%
Water: max 0.1%
Carbonyls (as acetone): max 0.03%
Colour (APHA liquid): max 10
Melting point: min 40.5°C
Specific gravity at 45°C: 1.056–1.060
SAFETY
Toxic — skin absorption hazard (phenol burns skin and is absorbed transdermally). Corrosive. IMDG Class 6.1 and Class 8. Requires full chemical protective equipment.