Benzaldehyde: Product Information and Physical Properties

What is Benzaldehyde?

Benzaldehyde belongs to the family of aromatic aldehydes and stands out with its characteristic almond-like aroma, making it instantly recognizable in both laboratory and industrial settings. Its molecular formula, C₇H₆O, spells out a structure where a benzene ring is attached to a formyl group, creating a molecular arrangement noted for reactivity in various chemical syntheses. You find this compound as a colorless to pale yellow liquid at room temperature, with a density of 1.04 g/cm³. The material appears in liquid, crystalline, and sometimes even solid forms, depending on storage and temperature conditions. Under normal conditions, it does not form flakes, pearls, or powder without further processing or derivatization. Many industries turn to Benzaldehyde as a raw material in perfumery, pharmaceuticals, dyes, and plastic additives, using its unique properties to create new compounds and fragrances. The aroma is so strong and distinct that just a few mL in a room fills the air with a sharp almond scent, a signature that lingers and signals both presence and purity.

Chemical Properties and Structure

Looking closer at Benzaldehyde, its chemical behavior links strongly to the aldehyde functional group attached to the benzene ring. This setup introduces an element of reactivity, especially in reactions like nucleophilic addition and condensation. Its boiling point stands at 178.1°C, and it melts at -26°C, so it remains liquid across a wide temperature range found in most production environments. Solubility in water is low—about 3.3 g per 100 mL at 20°C—while it blends easily in organic solvents like ethanol and ether, making it adaptable for use in solutions, whether for chemical synthesis or laboratory tests. Its vapors can become irritating at higher concentrations; Benzaldehyde has a flash point of 64°C, so safe storage and handling require attention to temperature and ventilation. My own experience using Benzaldehyde in synthesis labs taught me that this chemical, though apparently benign, carries risks: skin and eye irritation, and harmful effects if inhaled in large quantities, so gloves, goggles, and fume hoods are never optional.

Specifications and Standards

Commercial Benzaldehyde typically comes with an HS Code of 29122100, aligning with global trade and customs criteria for aromatic aldehydes. Purity standards usually reach 99% or higher for food grade and pharmaceutical grade material, though technical grades for industrial use accept more impurities. The compound gets delivered in tightly sealed containers, often glass or coated steel, to avoid degradation by air and light. Material safety data sheets flag it as hazardous and harmful, with required hazard symbols for flammable liquids and irritant chemicals. Knowing the specific gravity helps with mixing and dosing—its specific gravity sits near 1.045 at 20°C. Lab users and manufacturers alike pay close attention to appearance: a clear, transparent liquid signals purity, while any cloudiness or discoloration hints at oxidation or contamination.

Applications and Handling Concerns

Benzaldehyde goes beyond just an ingredient in cherry or almond flavorings. The compound produces dyes, plasticizers, pharmaceuticals, and even pesticides, drawing from its chemical reactivity and ability to act as an intermediate. In a perfume lab, Benzaldehyde contributes depth and warmth, smoothing out synthetic blends that otherwise seem harsh or lifeless. Chemical manufacturers use it as a starting material in synthesizing benzoic acid, cinnamic acid, and several pharmaceuticals. These processes require strict adherence to safety, as Benzaldehyde can sensitize skin, harm the respiratory system, and causes irritation upon contact or inhalation. Regulations in the EU and US mandate clear labeling and storage away from incompatible chemicals like strong bases and oxidizers. From personal use in experimental setups, I learned to limit direct handling, using pipettes and gloves, and to rely on well-ventilated spaces to avoid prolonged exposure to vapors. Even spill cleanups demand caution—sawdust or sand helps absorb liquid, and disposal follows hazardous waste protocols to prevent accidents.

Solutions for Safe and Responsible Use

Industries continue to refine their processes around Benzaldehyde to boost safety and efficiency. Proper labeling and secured containers prevent accidental exposures. Training workers about the chemical’s hazardous nature saves lives during spills or fire emergencies, especially as small leaks easily fill a confined space with its intense aroma and fumes. Investing in better ventilation and fire suppression reduces long-term risks. Efforts to minimize release into water streams and air ensure compliance with environmental regulations, and monitoring systems help detect even trace amounts of vapors for a safer workplace. Substituting Benzaldehyde with less hazardous materials where possible reduces overall risk without losing functional benefits, though in many uses—fine fragrances, chemical intermediates—no full replacements exist yet. Research into safer handling, faster spill containment, and lower-toxicity analogues offers some hope for improved safety, but day to day, handling Benzaldehyde responsibly remains a critical priority for everyone from seasoned chemists to factory technicians.