Resorcinol CAS 108-46-3

Common Reactions

Condensation Reactions: Reacts readily with aldehydes (such as formaldehyde) to form resorcinol-formaldehyde (RF) resins.

Electrophilic Aromatic Substitution: Undergoes halogenation, nitration, and sulfonation much faster than benzene, typically substituting at the 2, 4, and 6 positions.

Azo Coupling: Reacts with diazonium salts in alkaline solutions to form vibrant azo dyes.

Friedel-Crafts Acylation: Reacts with carboxylic acids or anhydrides to yield resorcinol derivatives used in UV absorbers.

Specifications

Data Sheet Download

Applications

• Tires and Rubber Products: Acts as a critical adhesion promoter. It is formulated with formaldehyde and latex to bond synthetic fabric cords to rubber, preventing tire delamination.
• Wood Adhesives: Used as a cross-linking agent in manufacturing resorcinol-formaldehyde resins, providing waterproof and highly durable bonds for marine plywood and exterior timber.
• Dermatology and Cosmetics: Functions as a keratolytic and antimicrobial agent. It helps break down rough, scaly skin and clears pores in acne and seborrheic dermatitis treatments.
• Dyes and UV Absorbers: Serves as a primary intermediate. It provides the core chemical structure required to synthesize fluorescent dyes and UV-blocking compounds for plastics.

Storage Environment

• Temperature: Store in a cool, well-ventilated area (ideally below 30°C).
• Light & Air: Must be kept in tightly sealed containers protected from direct sunlight and ambient air to prevent oxidative discoloration.
• Moisture: Keep away from moisture to prevent the crystals from clumping.
• Segregation: Store strictly away from strong oxidizers, strong bases, and alkaline metals.

Handling & Usage Precautions

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing. A dust mask or respirator is highly recommended to prevent inhalation of airborne particles.
• Ventilation: Use only in well-ventilated areas or under a local exhaust hood to control dust and vapors.
• Hygiene: Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water immediately after handling. Do not eat, drink, or smoke in the work area.
• Spill Response: Sweep up spills carefully to minimize dust generation, place in a sealed chemical waste container, and flush the residual area with plenty of water.

Formulations

• Resorcinol-Formaldehyde-Latex (RFL) Dip:
  • Function: Used in the tire industry. Resorcinol reacts with formaldehyde to form a resin network that physically and chemically locks the rubber matrix to the reinforcing textile cords.
• Anti-Acne Topical Creams (typically 2% to 10%):
  • Function: Paired often with sulfur, resorcinol acts as a keratolytic agent that dissolves dead skin cells and reduces sebum production, clearing blocked pores.
• Permanent Hair Dyes:
  • Function: Acts as a “coupler.” It does not have color itself but reacts with primary intermediates (like p-phenylenediamine) in the presence of an oxidizing agent to produce lasting brown and natural hair dye shades.

Packaging Options

• 25 kg multi-wall paper bags with inner polyethylene liners.
• 25 kg / 50 kg fiber drums for better protection against moisture and physical damage.
• 500 kg jumbo bags for bulk industrial consumers.
• Customized packaging available as required.

Safety & Compliance