Phenoxyethanol

138.16

138.16

204-589-7

HIE492ZZ3T

0538

1864

DTXSID9021976

Oily liquid|Colorless liquid

29094990

29.5

1.2

Ethylene glycol phenyl ether is a colorless liquid with a pleasant odor. Density 1.02 g / cm3. An irritant.

1.1094 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C

14 °C

245.2 °C @ Press: 760 Torr

>230 °F

n 20/D 1.539

H2O: soluble , clear, colorless to very faintly yellow;30 g/L (20 ºC)Oxidizes in air to form unstable peroxides that may explode spontaneously.

Store in a tightly closed container. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances.

0.01 mm Hg ( 20 °C)

4.8 (vs air)

LD50 orally in Rabbit: 1850 mg/kg LD50 dermal Rabbit > 2000 mg/kg

1.4-9.0%(V)

Faint aromatic odor

Burning taste

Henry's Law constant = 4.9X10-8 atm-cu m/mole at 25 °C (est)

pKa = 15.10 at 25 °C

% in saturated air: 0.00096 at 25 °C|Hydroxyl radical reaction rate constant = 3.27X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C (est)

Oxidizes in air to form unstable peroxides that may explode spontaneously [Bretherick, 1979 p.151-154, 164]. Water soluble.

Alcohols and Polyols

Peroxidizable Compound

ETHYLENE GLYCOL PHENYL ETHER may react violently with strong oxidizing agents. May generate flammable and/or toxic gases with alkali metals, nitrides, and other strong reducing agents. May initiate the polymerization of isocyanates and epoxides.

500 °C

958 kcal/mole

1

22-36

26-S26

KM0350000

Xn,Xi

Aqueous phenoxyethanol solutions are stable and may be sterilized by autoclaving. The bulk material is also stable and should be stored in a well-closed container in a cool, dry place.

STABLE IN PRESENCE OF ACIDS & ALKALIES.

P264, P270, P280, P301+P312, P305+P351+P338, P330, P337+P313, P501

H302

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.

Can react vigorously with oxidizing materials.

Ethylene glycol monophenyl ether is an indirect food additive for use only as a component of adhesives.

This chemical is combustible. (NTP, 1992)|Combustible.

|Warning|H302: Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]|P264, P270, P280, P301+P312, P305+P351+P338, P330, P337+P313, and P501|H302 (99.83%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]|Aggregated GHS information provided by 4212 companies from 18 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.|Danger|H302 (51.28%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]|P264, P270, P280, P301+P312, P302+P352, P305+P351+P338, P310, P321, P330, P332+P313, P337+P313, P362, and P501|Aggregated GHS information provided by 274 companies from 9 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.|H319: Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]|P261, P264, P271, P280, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P312, P337+P313, P403+P233, P405, and P501|H320: Causes eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]|P201, P202, P261, P264, P271, P281, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P308+P313, P312, P337+P313, P403+P233, P405, and P501

SMALL SPILLS AND LEAKAGE: If you should spill this chemical, use absorbent paper to pick up all liquid spill material. Seal the absorbent paper, as well as any of your clothing which may be contaminated, in a vapor-tight plastic bag for eventual disposal. Wash any surfaces you may have contaminated with a soap and water solution. Do not reenter the contaminated area until the Safety Officer (or other responsible person) has verified that the area has been properly cleaned. STORAGE PRECAUTIONS: You should store this material under ambient temperatures, and keep it away from oxidizing materials. (NTP, 1992)

Positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus, protective clothing chemical goggles, gloves and boots. (USCG, 1999)

Combustible when exposed to heat or flame ... .

To fight fire, use CO2, dry chemical.

SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses by industrial workers is inconsistent. The benefits or detrimental effects of wearing contact lenses depend not only upon the substance, but also on factors including the form of the substance, characteristics and duration of the exposure, the uses of other eye protection equipment, and the hygiene of the lenses. However, there may be individual substances whose irritating or corrosive properties are such that the wearing of contact lenses would be harmful to the eye. In those specific cases, contact lenses should not be worn. In any event, the usual eye protection equipment should be worn even when contact lenses are in place.|REASONABLE HANDLING PRECAUTIONS, PLUS PARTICULAR CARE TO PREVENT CONTACT WITH THE EYES, SHOULD PREVENT ANY SERIOUS TOXIC EFFECTS.

A skin and severe eye irritant.

Personal protection: filter respirator for organic gases and vapours adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Collect leaking liquid in sealable containers. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

Separated from strong oxidants.

A harmful contamination of the air will not or will only very slowly be reached on evaporation of this substance at 20 °C.

The substance is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. The substance may cause effects on the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system. This may result in impaired functions.

The substance defats the skin, which may cause dryness or cracking. The substance may have effects on the central nervous system. This may result in impaired functions.

NO open flames.

PREVENT GENERATION OF MISTS!

Use ventilation, local exhaust or breathing protection.

Protective gloves. Protective clothing.

Wear safety goggles.

This action promulgates standards of performance for equipment leaks of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) in the Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturing Industry (SOCMI). The intended effect of these standards is to require all newly constructed, modified, and reconstructed SOCMI process units to use the best demonstrated system of continuous emission reduction for equipment leaks of VOC, considering costs, non air quality health and environmental impact and energy requirements. Ethylene glycol monophenyl ether is produced, as an intermediate or final product, by process units covered under this subpart.

| 3 - Materials that, under emergency conditions, can cause serious or permanent injury.| 1 - Materials that must be preheated before ignition can occur. Materials require considerable preheating, under all ambient temperature conditions, before ignition and combustion can occur.| 0 - Materials that in themselves are normally stable, even under fire conditions.

The major hazards encountered in the use and handling of 2-phenoxyethanol stem from its toxicologic properties. Toxic by all routes (inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact), exposure to this faintly aromatic, colorless, oily liquid may occur from its use as a fixative for cosmetics, perfumes, and soaps; as a bactericide and insect repellant; as a solvent for cellulose acetate,dyes, stamp pad, ball point, and specialty inks; as a chemical intermediate for carboxylic acid esters (eg, acrylate, maleate) and polymers (eg, formaldehyde, melamine); and as a preservative for human specimen used for dissection and demonstrations in anatomical studies. Effects from exposure may include eye irritation, headache, tremors, and CNS depression. If contact should occur, irrigate exposed eyes with copious amounts of tepid water for at least 15 minutes, and wash exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water. 2-Phenoxyethanol must be preheated before ignition can occur. If this substance is involved in a fire, water spray gently applied to the surface will cause a frothing which will extinguish the fire.

2-Phenoxyethanol has been detected in wastewater effluents from the following industries: paint and ink, organics & plastics, photographic, and mechanical products(1). 2-Phenoxyethanol was detected in samples collected from oil reclaiming wastewaters(2). 2-Phenoxyethanol was qualitatively detected in wastewater samples collected from the Iona Island municipal treatment facility (British Columbia) in 1983(3).

RAIN/SNOW: Snow samples collected in early March (year not specified) at Lapland, Finland and Moscow, Russia contained 2-phenoxyethanol concentrations of 0.28 and 0.04 ug/kg respectively(1).

LC50 oral, rat; 1980 mg/kg [MSDS]. LD50 Rabbit dermal 2250 mg/kg. 2-Phenoxyethanol (PhE) has been shown to induce hepatotoxicity, renal toxicity, and hemolysis at dosages ≥ 400 mg/kg/day in subchronic and chronic studies in multiple species. The major hazards encountered in the use and handling of 2-phenoxyethanol stem from its toxicologic properties. Toxic by all routes (inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact), exposure to this very faintly aromatic, colorless, oily liquid may occur from its use as a fixative for cosmetics, perfumes, and soaps; as a bactericide and insect repellant; as a solvent for cellulose acetate,dyes, stamp pad, ball point, and specialty inks; as a chemical intermediate for carboxylic acid esters (eg, acrylate, maleate) and polymers (eg, formaldehyde, melamine); and as a preservative for human specimens used for dissection and demonstrations in anatomical studies. Effects resulting from exposure to this substance can include eye irritation, headache, tremors, and central nervous system depression. If contact with the eyes occurs, irrigate exposed eyes with copious amounts of tepid water for at least 15 minutes, and wash exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water. 2-Phenoxyethanol must be preheated before ignition can occur.

LD50 Mouse ip 872 mg/kg bw|LD50 Mouse ip ca 333 mg/kg bw|LD50 Guinea pig dermal >22180 mg/kg bw|LD50 Rabbit dermal >5000 mg/kg bw|For more Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete) data for 2-PHENOXYETHANOL (27 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ PHENOXYETHANOL SHOWED A TOXIC EFFECT ON FERTILIZATION WHEN THE CONCN IN THE INSEMINATION DILUTENT WAS 0.05%. THIS EFFECT WAS LIMITED TO THE SPERM. THE ANESTHETIC DID NOT SEEM TO AFFECT THE EGG. THEREFORE, CAUTION SHOULD BE EXERCISED WHEN PHENOXYETHANOL IS USED TO IMMOBILIZE FISH DURING SPAWN TAKING.|/AQUATIC SPECIES/ 2-PHENOXYETHANOL (0.1-0.5 ML/L) SEDATED OR ANESTHETIZED FISH WITHIN MINUTES WHEN THE ANIMALS WERE IMMERSED IN THE AGENT. THE FISH RECOVERED RAPIDLY FOLLOWING REMOVAL FROM THE ANESTHETIC SOLN.|/AQUATIC SPECIES/ /Fathead Minnows were exposed to 2-Phenoxyethanol at nominal concentrations of 0, 68, 113, 188, 313, 522 mg/L for up to 96 hr./ Fish in the second highest concentration were immediately affected but began to respond to tap 12 hr. They did not school for the remainder of the test. Affected fish stopped schooling, became hypoactive on the tank bottom, then lost equilibrium prior to death.|/AQUATIC SPECIES/ THE APPROX TIMES TO 50% MORTALITY OF JUVENILE RAINBOW TROUT (SALMO GAIRDNERI) EXPOSED TO 2-PHENOXYETHANOL AT 0.75, 0.50, & 0.25 ML/L WERE 10.7 MINUTES, 26.3 MINUTES, & 3.7 HR, RESPECTIVELY. THE AVERAGE IMMOBILIZATION TIMES AT THE ABOVE 3 CONCN WERE 2, 3, & 4 MINUTES, RESPECTIVELY, & RECOVERY TIMES WERE APPROX 14, 9, & 6 MINUTES, RESPECTIVELY, FOR FISH THAT SURVIVED. 2-PHENOXYETHANOL THUS APPEARS TO BE A SUITABLE ANESTHETIC FOR JUVENILE SALMONIDS BUT ONLY FOR LIMITED DURATIONS, ESPECIALLY AT HIGHER CONCN.

Ethylene Glycol Monophenyl Ether (EGPE) ... was tested for reproductive toxicity in Swiss CD-1 mice using the RACB protocol. ... Data collected on body weights, clinical signs, & food/water consumption during the dose-range-finding segment (Task 1) were used to set concn for the main study (Task 2) at 0.0, 0.25, 1.25, 2.5% in feed. These concn produced calculated consumption estimates of nearly equal to 375, 1875, & 3700 mg/kg/day. There were no effects on body weight during the continuous breeding phase of the study. Two control mice died, & one mouse & two mice died in the middle & high dose groups, respectively. All pairs of mice in each group had at least 1 litter. There was no reduction in the mean number of litters/pair. The middle dose group had 5.00 litters/pair, while the control had a mean of 4.84; this difference was statistically significant, but biologically insignificant. The high dose group had 19% fewer live pups/litter than controls; the live pup weight (adjusted for litter size) was reduced by 4% & 10% in the middle & high dose groups, respectively. Because of the reduction in pup number, a crossover mating trial was conducted, using one treated partner & one control partner. A separate group of re-randomized controls served as concurrent controls for this task. While there were no alterations in mating or fertility indices or in the number of live pups/litter seen in groups with a treated partner, live pup weight adjusted for litter size was reduced by 12% in the control male x 2.5% EGPE female group. Thus, there was a clear effect in treated females, but one probably related to developmental toxicity, rather than female fertility per se. The control & high dose F0 mice were killed & necropsied. The treated males weighed 6% less than their controls, while their absolute liver weight was 14% greater. Female body weight was unchanged by EGPA, but absolute liver weight was increased by 55%. No other organ weights were affected. Sperm indices (% motile, epididymal concn, morphology) were unaffected by EGPE treatment at 2.5%. The last F1 litter from all dose levels in Task 2 was reared by the dams to weaning, & then dosed with EGPE at the same concn provided to their parents. There was reduced body weight gain to weaning: the middle & high dose groups weighed 25% & 58% less than controls at weaning on /postnatal day/ 21; on /postnatal day/ 74, the weight differences were 11% & 17%, respectively. Mortality was also increased in the middle & high dose groups from weaning to mating at /postnatal day/ 74. This was most pronounced in the high dose group: of the 56 pups weaned in this group, only a total of 6 survived to mating at /postnatal day/ 74. This provided too few animals to analyze, & this group was omitted from the rest of the study. At the mating of the second generation, there was no treatment-related effect on F2 pup number or sex ratio. F2 pup weight adjusted for litter size was reduced in the 1.25% group by 7%. After the delivery of the F2 pups, the control & 1.25% group F1 mice were killed & necropsied. The 1.25% EGPE mice weighed 13% less than controls, their absolute testis weight was 16% less, & relative seminal vesicles weight was 14% less than controls. The 1.25% EGPE females weighed 7% less than controls; there were no adjusted weight changes in the treated females. There were no treatment-related alterations in epididymal sperm concn, motility, or morphology. In summary, EGPE produced significant reproductive & developmental toxicity at doses that increased liver weight in treated F0 mice. EGPE caused significant toxicity in growing animals, as evidenced by the reduced body weight in neonates in Tasks 2, 3, & 4, & the large incr in post-natal lethality as the F1 animals grew to the age of mating.

2-Phenoxyethanol's production and use as a solvent for cellulose acetate and dyes, in inks and resins, as a perfume fixative, as a bactericidal agent, in organic synthesis of plasticizers, germicides and pharmaceuticals and in insect repellents(1) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 15(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that 2-phenoxyethanol is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of 2-phenoxyethanol from moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 4.9X10-8 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), based upon its vapor pressure, 0.007 mm Hg at 25 °C(3), and water solubility, 2.6X10+4 mg/L(4). One biodegradation study reported theoretical 2-phenoxyethanol BODs of 2% (5-day), 71% (10-day), and 80% (20-day)(3); a theoretical 20-day BOD of 50%(3) indicates biodegrdaation may be an important environmnetal fate process in soil(SRC).|AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 15(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that 2-phenoxyethanol is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 4.9X10-8 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 0.007 mm Hg at 25 °C(4), and water solubility, 2.6X10+4 mg/L(5). According to a classification scheme(6), an estimated BCF of 1.5(SRC), from its log Kow of 1.16(7) and a regression-derived equation(8), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. One biodegradation study reported theoretical 2-phenoxyethanol BODs of 2% (5-day), 71% (10-day), and 80% (20-day)(4); a theoretical 20-day BOD of 50% indicates a compound will largely be removed during biological waste treatment(4). 2-Phenoxyethanol is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(3).|ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), 2-phenoxyethanol, which has a estimated vapor pressure of 0.007 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 2-phenoxyethanol is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be about 11.8 hours(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 3.27X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) that was derived using a structure estimation method(3). Monitoring data have shown that 2-phenoxyethanol can be removed from the atmosphere via precipitation such as snow(4). 2-Phenoxyethanol does not absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(5), and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of 2-phenoxyethanol with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 3.27X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 11.8 hours at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). The UV spectrum for an aqueous solution of 2-phenoxyethanol does not show any absorbance above 290 nm(2) which indicates that 2-phenoxyethanol will not directly photolyze in the environment(SRC). 2-Phenoxyethanol is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(3).

An estimated BCF of 1.5 was calculated in fish for 2-phenoxyethanol(SRC), using a log Kow of 1.16(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indices(1), the Koc of 2-phenoxyethanol can be estimated to be 15(SRC). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that 2-phenoxyethanol is expected to have very high mobility in soil.

The Henry's Law constant for 2-phenoxyethanol is estimated as 4.9X10-8 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) derived from its vapor pressure, 0.007 mm Hg at 25 °C(1), and water solubility, 2.6X10+4 mg/L(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that 2-phenoxyethanol is essentially nonvolatile from water surfaces(3). 2-Phenoxyethanol's Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces is not expected to occur(SRC). 2-Phenoxyethanol is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon the vapor pressure of 0.007 mm Hg at 25 °C(3).

DRINKING WATER: 2-Phenoxyethanol was qualitatively detected in drinking water concentrates collected in Cincinnati, OH on Oct 17, 1978(1).|GROUND WATER: 2-Phenoxyethanol concentrations of less than 5 ppm were detected in well waters collected in the vicinity of two industrial factories in Spain in 1984(1).

According to the 2006 TSCA Inventory Update Reporting data, the number of persons reasonably likely to be exposed in the industrial manufacturing, processing, and use of 2-phenoxyethanol is 1000 or greater; the data may be greatly underestimated(1).|NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 111,040 workers (46,637 of these were female) were potentially exposed to 2-phenoxyethanol in the US(1). Occupational exposure to the 2-phenoxyethanol occurs through inhalation of vapor and dermal contact. Its use as solvent for inks, resins and cellulose acetate and its use as a perfume fixative could expose the general population through dermal contact and inhalation of vapor(SRC).

Antimicrobial agent used as a preservative in cosmetics,,.

Phenoxyethanol (PE) is a preservative added to cosmetics and pharmaceuticals such as antibiotic ointments and solutions, ear-drops, and vaccines.|Anti-Infective Agents, Local; Anesthetics|Phenoxyethanol has antibacterial properties and is effective against strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa even in the presence of 20% serum. It is less effective against Proteus vulgaris, other Gram-negative organisms, and Gram-positive organisms. It has been used as a preservative at a concentration of 1%. A wider spectrum of antimicrobial activity is obtained with preservative mixtures of phenoxyethanol and hydroxybenzoates. Phenoxyethanol may be used as a 2.2% solution or a 2% cream for the treatment of superficial wounds, burns, or abscesses infected by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In skin infection derivatives of phenoxyethanol are used with either cyclic acid or zinc undecenoate.|TOPICAL ANTISEPTIC

Peritonitis is the established term for infective inflammation of the peritoneum, whereas serositis generally refers to aseptic inflammation of a serous cavity, including the peritoneum. Serositis may be metabolic, viral, autoimmune, drug induced, genetic, allergic or granulomatous, or due to chemical antiseptics. In ...gynecological department, 4 patients had peritonitis and ascites after laparotomy. Based on the investigation... the solution used for peritoneal lavage (0.1% octenidine dihydrochloride and 2% phenoxyethanol) played a role in the tissue toxicity that caused chemical serositis with effusion.

This substance has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, yeasts, and mold.

Agents that are capable of inducing a total or partial loss of sensation, especially tactile sensation and pain. They may act to induce general ANESTHESIA, in which an unconscious state is achieved, or may act locally to induce numbness or lack of sensation at a targeted site. (See all compounds classified as Anesthetics.)|Substances used on humans and other animals that destroy harmful microorganisms or inhibit their activity. They are distinguished from DISINFECTANTS, which are used on inanimate objects. (See all compounds classified as Anti-Infective Agents, Local.)

The fate of phenoxyethanol in rats and humans has been investigated. More than 90% of an oral dose of 16, 27 or 160 mg/kg body weight of (2-(14)C)phenoxyethanol administered to male Colworth rats by was excreted in the urine within 24 hours of administration. A female rat also excreted about 90% of a dose of 27 mg/kg body weight in the urine within 24 hours. About 2% and 1.3% of the ingested dose was recovered from the exhaled air of female and male rats, respectively.|A pharmacokinetic study of phenoxyethanol was performed using a mass spectrometry model for simultaneous analysis of phenoxyethanol (PE) and its major metabolite, phenoxyacetic acid (PAA), in rat plasma, urine, and 7 different tissues. The absolute topical bioavailability of PE was 75.4% and 76.0% for emulsion and lotion, respectively. Conversion of PE to PAA was extensive, with the average AUCPAA-to-AUCPE ratio being 4.4 and 5.3 for emulsion and lotion, respectively. The steady-state tissue-to-plasma PE concentration ratio (Kp) was higher than unity for kidney, spleen, heart, brain, and testis and was lower (0.6) for lung and liver, while the metabolite Kp ratio was higher than unity for kidney, liver, lung, and testis and was lower (0.3) for other tissues.|... An entire oral dose of 11 mg of unlabelled 2-phenoxyethanol was accounted for in the urine of one healthy male volunteer as 2-phenoxyacetic acid. Most of the acid was excreted unconjugated.|The fate of 2-phenoxyethanol in rats and humans has been investigated. More than 90% of an oral dose of 16, 27 or 160 mg/kg bw of (2-(14)C)phenoxyethanol given to male Colworth rats by gavage was excreted in the urine within 24 hr. A female rat also excreted about 90% of a dose of 27 mg/kg bw in the urine within 24 hr. Approximately 2 and 1.3% of the ingested dose was recovered from expired air of female and male rats, respectively. The rate of intestinal absorption was rapid, with 60-70% of the excreted (14)C detected at 3 hr and > 95% of the total 4-day urinary (14)C detected within the first 24 hr. Trace amounts of radioactivity were detected in feces. Four days after dosing, only trace amounts of radioactivity remained in the carcass, primarily in the liver (< 0.2% of the dose), fat and muscle. At 4 days, the (14)C concentration in blood was only 0.001.|... NOT READILY ABSORBED THROUGH THE SKIN IN ACUTELY TOXIC AMT.|2-PHENOXYETHANOL (0.1-0.5 ML/L) SEDATED OR ANESTHETIZED FISH WITHIN MINUTES WHEN THE ANIMALS WERE IMMERSED IN THE AGENT. WHEN ADMIN IN THIS WAY, THE ANESTHETIC WAS ABSORBED INTO THE BLOOD STREAM THROUGH THE GILL LAMELLAE.

The fate of phenoxyethanol in rats and humans has been investigated. The rate of intestinal absorption was rapid, with 60-70% of the excreted (14)C detected at 3 hours and > 95% of the total 4-day urinary (14)C detected within the first 24 hr. Trace amounts of radioactivity were detected in feces. Four days after dosing, only trace amounts of radioactivity remained in the carcass, primarily in the liver (< 0.2% of the dose), fat and muscle. At the 4 day point, the (14)C concentration in blood was measured to be only 0.001. The major metabolite of phenoxyethanol is phenoxyacetic acid.|Once hydrolyzed, 2-phenoxyethanol is rapidly absorbed and oxidized to phenoxyacetic acid ...|YIELDS PHENOL IN CONIOPHORA, IN PLEUROTUS, & IN POLYSTICTUS ... . /FROM TABLE/|The toxicity of glycol ethers is associated with their oxidation to the corresponding aldehyde and alkoxyacetic acid by cytosolic alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH; EC 1.1.1.1.) and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH; 1.2.1.3). Dermal exposure to these compounds can result in localised or systemic toxicity including skin sensitisation and irritancy, reproductive, developmental and hematological effects. It has previously been shown that skin has the capacity for local metabolism of applied chemicals. Therefore, there is a requirement to consider metabolism during dermal absorption of these compounds in risk assessment for humans. Cytosolic fractions were prepared from rat liver, and whole and dermatomed skin by differential centrifugation. Rat skin cytosolic fractions were also prepared following multiple dermal exposure to dexamethasone, ethanol or 2-butoxyethanol (2-BE). The rate of ethanol, 2-ethoxyethanol (2-EE), ethylene glycol, 2-phenoxyethanol (2-PE) and 2-BE conversion to alkoxyacetic acid by ADH/ALDH in these fractions was continuously monitored by UV spectrophotometry via the conversion of NAD+ to NADH at 340 nm. Rates of ADH oxidation by rat liver cytosol were greatest for ethanol followed by 2-EE >ethylene glycol >2-PE >2-BE. However, the order of metabolism changed to 2-BE >2-PE >ethylene glycol >2-EE >ethanol using whole and dermatomed rat skin cytosolic fractions, with approximately twice the specific activity in dermatomed skin cytosol relative to whole rat skin. This suggests that ADH and ALDH are localised in the epidermis that constitutes more of the protein in dermatomed skin than whole skin cytosol. Inhibition of ADH oxidation in rat liver cytosol by pyrazole was greatest for ethanol followed by 2-EE >ethylene glycol >2-PE >2-BE, but it only inhibited ethanol metabolism by 40% in skin cytosol. Disulfiram completely inhibited alcohol and glycol ether metabolism in the liver and skin cytosolic fractions. Although ADH1, ADH2 and ADH3 are expressed at the protein level in rat liver, only ADH1 and ADH2 are selectively inhibited by pyrazole and they constitute the predominant isoforms that metabolise short-chain alcohols in preference to intermediate chain-length alcohols. However, ADH1, ADH3 and ADH4 predominate in rat skin, demonstrate different sensitivities to pyrazole, and are responsible for metabolising glycol ethers. ALDH1 is the predominant isoform in rat liver and skin cytosolic fractions that is selectively inhibited by disulfiram and responds to the amount of aldehyde formed by the ADH isoforms expressed in these tissues. Thus, the different affinity of ADH and ALDH for alcohols and glycol ethers of different carbon-chain length may reflect the relative isoform expression in rat liver and skin. Following multiple topical exposure, ethanol metabolism increased the most following ethanol treatment, and 2-BE metabolism increased the most following 2-BE treatment. Ethanol and 2-BE may induce specific ADH and ALDH isoforms that preferentially metabolise short-chain alcohols (i.e. ADH1, ALDH1) and longer chain alcohols (i.e. ADH3, ADH4, ALDH1), respectively. Treatment with a general inducing agent such as dexamethasone enhanced ethanol and 2-BE metabolism suggesting induction of multiple ADH isoforms.|Studies were conducted... to evaluate the in vitro hemolytic potential of / ethylene glycol phenyl ether/ EGPE and its major metabolite using rabbit red blood cells (RBC). Phenoxyacetic acid (PAA) was identified as a major blood metabolite of EGPE. In vitro exposure of female rabbit erythrocytes indicated EGPE to be considerably more hemolytic than PAA.

Phenoxyethanol has antibacterial properties and is effective against strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa even in the presence of 20% serum. It not as effective against Proteus vulgaris, other gram-negative organisms, and gram-positive organisms. Phenoxyethanol has been used as a preservative at a concentration of 1%. A wider spectrum of antimicrobial activity is achieved with preservative mixtures of phenoxyethanol and hydroxybenzoates. Phenoxyethanol may be used as a 2.2% solution or a 2% cream for the treatment of superficial wounds, burns, or abscesses infected by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In skin infection, derivatives of phenoxyethanol are used in combination with either cyclic acid or zinc undecenoate.

May cause moderate eye irritation and moderate corneal injury. Excessive exposure may cause skin irritation and hemolysis. (USCG, 1999)

EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop. SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water. If symptoms such as redness or irritation develop, IMMEDIATELY call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital for treatment. INHALATION: IMMEDIATELY leave the contaminated area; take deep breaths of fresh air. If symptoms (such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or burning in the mouth, throat, or chest) develop, call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital. Provide proper respiratory protection to rescuers entering an unknown atmosphere. Whenever possible, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) should be used; if not available, use a level of protection greater than or equal to that advised under Protective Clothing. INGESTION: DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. If the victim is conscious and not convulsing, give 1 or 2 glasses of water to dilute the chemical and IMMEDIATELY call a hospital or poison control center. Be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital if advised by a physician. If the victim is convulsing or unconscious, do not give anything by mouth, ensure that the victim's airway is open and lay the victim on his/her side with the head lower than the body. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital. (NTP, 1992)

Fresh air, rest.

Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap.

First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.

/SRP:/ Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR if necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on the left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Poisons A and B/|/SRP:/ Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if needed. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for pulmonary edema and treat if necessary ... . Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 mL/kg up to 200 mL of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool ... . Cover skin burns with dry sterile dressings after decontamination ... . /Poisons A and B/|/SRP:/ Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag valve mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Consider administering a beta agonist such as albuterol for severe bronchospasm ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias as necessary ... . Start IV administration of D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam or lorazepam ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Poisons A and B/

/CASE REPORTS/ ... An 18-month-old boy who developed generalized eczema within 24 hr after administration of a DPT (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus) vaccine. Patch tests with the individual components of the vaccine gave a positive result to PE 2% pet. ...|/CASE REPORTS/ ... A 53-year-old man with hand eczema caused by PE in an aqueous cream. Patch tests were positive to 1% PE, and the eczema improved with avoidance of the cream. ...|/CASE REPORTS/ A 24-year-old Asian woman suffered her first episode of acute urticaria 1 hr after eating papaya salad. Four days later, she again experienced generalized urticarial exanthema just after taking a shower, while applying a recently bought body lotion. She had never suffered from aquagenic or any other physical urticaria. She had no history of atopy or previous allergic reactions to food or drugs. ... Skin prick tests with common aeroallergens were all negative. The prick to prick test with fresh papaya was negative. Prick test with the body lotion gave a +++ reaction (Histamine: ++). In an open application test with the single ingredients of the body lotion and with papaya for 30 min we found a strong wheal reaction with pseudopods to PE. Tests with all the other ingredients and with papaya were negative. The prick test with Euxyl K 400 1% in pet. and with a dilution series of PE resulted in a ++ reaction to Euxyl K 400 and in a + reaction to 1% PE, +to 5% PE, and ++ to 10% PE. ... Observed an immediate reaction to PE with contact urticaria to a body lotion containing PE 1%. ...|/CASE REPORTS/ Peritonitis is the established term for infective inflammation of the peritoneum, whereas serositis generally refers to aseptic inflammation of a serous cavity, including the peritoneum. Serositis may be metabolic, viral, autoimmune, drug induced, genetic, allergic or granulomatous, or due to chemical antiseptics. In ... gynecological department, 4 patients had peritonitis and ascites after laparotomy. Based on the investigation...the solution used for peritoneal lavage (0.1% octenidine dihydrochloride and 2% phenoxyethanol) played a role in the tissue toxicity that caused chemical serositis with effusion.|For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for 2-PHENOXYETHANOL (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

2-phenoxyethanol

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its aerosol, through the skin and by ingestion.

Cough. Sore throat. Euphoria. Headache. Drowsiness. Slurred speech.

MAY BE ABSORBED! Redness. Dry skin. Numbness. Further see Inhalation.

Redness. Pain.

Grade: Technical

Adhesive manufacturing|Ethanol, 2-phenoxy-: ACTIVE

Good resolution of a standard mixture of benzyl alcohol, 2-phenoxyethanol, 1-phenoxy-2-propanol, 3,4-dichloro and 2,4-dichlorophenylmethanol and ethyl 4-hydroxybenzoate internal standard was achieved by reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography using an RP-18 column, hydrated methyl cyanide as mobile phase and 230 nm for detection. Linearity was observed up to 20 ug injected for 2-phenoxyethanol and up to 6 ug injected for the other alcs. Five cosmetic products were subjected to high performance liquid chromatography and quantitative recoveries and excellent precision for added mixtures of the alc preservatives were obtained.|A thin layer chromatography procedure is presented for the separation and identification of preservatives that are listed in the current European Economic Community Council Directive on cosmetic products or have been permitted in the past. The method consists of extraction of acidified cosmetics with methanol, separation of the extractions by thin layer chromatography on aluminum oxide and silica gel-coated plates using 1 developing solvent, and visualization of the preservatives on the plates using short-wave-length ultraviolet light and 6 detection reagents. The retention behavior and the detectability of 88 preservatives were investigated, of which 74 were characterized by this method. The preservatives in 14 commercial cosmetic products were tentatively identified by the procedure described. In general this method will permit the routine detection of preservatives in cosmetics in an approx concn of 0.1% (wt/wt).

EPA Safer Chemical Functional Use Classes -> Preservatives and Antioxidants;Solvents|Safer Chemical Classes -> Yellow triangle - The chemical has met Safer Choice Criteria for its functional ingredient-class, but has some hazard profile issues|Cosmetics -> Preservative