Phenol is used as a precursor for cyclohexanone, plastics, nonionic detergents and pharmaceutical drugs like aspirin. It acts as an anesthetic in chloraseptic. It reacts with acetone to get bisphenol-A which is used in the synthesis of poly carbonates and epoxide resins. It is also used in the manufacture of synthetic resins, dyes, pharmaceuticals, synthetic tanning agents, perfumes, lubricating oils and solvents. In molecular biology, it is used in the extraction of nucleic acid from tissues by using the liquid/liquid phenol-chloroform extraction technique. It is an active component of paint strippers which are used for the removal of epoxy and polyurethane. It is also used in the preparation of cosmetics, hair colors and skin lightening preparations. In the field of medicine, its spray is useful in helping sore throat.

This Thermo Scientific Chemicals brand product was originally part of the Alfa Aesar product portfolio. Some documentation and label information may refer to the legacy brand. The original Alfa Aesar product / item code or SKU reference has not changed as a part of the brand transition to Thermo Scientific Chemicals.