Phenylacetaldehyde

Synonyms

1-Oxo-2-phenylethane; 2-Phenylethanal; Acetaldehyde, phenyl-; Benzeneacetaldehyde; Benzylcarboxaldehyde; Oxophenylethane; Phenylacetaldehyde (natural); Phenylacetic aldehyde; Phenylethanal; alpha-Tolualdehyde; alpha-Toluic aldehyde; [ChemIDplus]

Category

Aldehydes

Description

Colorless oily liquid that polymerizes and becomes thicker on standing; Odor like lilac and hyacinth; mp = 33-34 deg C; [Merck Index] Colorless to yellow liquid; [Acros Organics MSDS]

Sources/Uses

Permitted for use as an inert ingredient in non-food pesticide products; [EPA] Used in perfumery and as an intermediate in organic synthesis; [Merck Index] Used as flavoring agent or adjuvant; [FDA]

Comments

Causes somnolence in acute inhalation studies of mice; Causes somnolence and ataxia in oral lethal-dose studies of rats; Causes cutaneous sensitization in 3-day intermittent dermal studies of mice; [RTECS] Has been reported to be a fragrance allergen in consumers, and is a moderately potent allergen; [EC: SCCP] Safe when used as a flavoring agent in food; [JECFA] May cause irritation; May cause skin sensitization; Harmful by ingestion; [Acros Organics MSDS]

Biomedical References

0.392 mm Hg

LC50 (mouse) = 2,000 mg/m3

Explanatory Notes

VP from ChemIDplus;

Yes

Diseases

Occupational diseases associated with exposure to this agent:

• Contact dermatitis, allergic