Product Identification

Product Name

2-Hydroxy-5-methylbenzoic acid

Synonyms

2-Hydroxy-5-methylbenzoic acid
alpha-Cresotinic acid
Benzoic acid, 2-hydroxy-5-methyl-
p-Cresotic acid
p-Cresotinic acid
p-Homosalicylic acid

CAS

89-56-5

Formula

C8H8O3

Molecular Weight

152.15

EINECS

201-918-6

RTECS

GP3920200

RTECS Class

Drug

Merck

12,2650

Beilstein/Gmelin

1909076

Beilstein Reference

4-10-00-00610

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance

odorless white crystals

Solubility in water

Very soluble

Melting Point

152

Boiling Point

313

Density

1.31 g/cm3

pKa/pKb

3.30 (pKa)

Partition Coefficient

2.52

Heat Of Vaporization

57.0 kJ/mol

Heat Of Combustion

-3685 kJ/mol

First Aid Measures

Ingestion

Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. Get medical aid. Do NOT induce vomiting. If conscious and alert, rinse mouth and drink 2-4 cupfuls of milk or water.

Inhalation

Remove from exposure to fresh air immediately. If not breathing, give artificial respiration. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen. Get medical aid. DO NOT use mouth-to-mouth respiration.

Skin

Get medical aid. Flush skin with plenty of soap and water for at least 15 minutes while removing contaminated clothing and shoes. Wash clothing before reuse.

Eyes

Immediately flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, occasionally lifting the upper and lower eyelids. Get medical aid.

Handling and Storage

Storage

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

Handling

Wash thoroughly after handling. Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse. Minimize dust generation and accumulation. Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing. Avoid ingestion and inhalation. Use with adequate ventilation.

Hazards Identification

Inhalation

Causes respiratory tract irritation. Can produce delayed pulmonary edema.

Skin

Causes skin irritation.

Eyes

Causes eye irritation. May cause chemical conjunctivitis.

Ingestion

May cause gastrointestinal irritation with nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Exposure Controls/Personal Protection

Personal Protection

Eyes: Wear appropriate protective eyeglasses or chemical safety goggles as described by OSHA's eye and face protection regulations in 29 CFR 1910.133 or European Standard EN166. Skin: Wear appropriate protective gloves to prevent skin exposure. Clothing: Wear appropriate protective clothing to prevent skin exposure.

Respirators

A respiratory protection program that meets OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.134 and ANSI Z88.2 requirements or European Standard EN 149 must be followed whenever workplace conditions warrant a respirator's use.

Exposure Effects

Effects may be delayed.

Fire Fighting Measures

Flash Point

149

Fire Fighting

Wear a self-contained breathing apparatus in pressure-demand, MSHA/NIOSH (approved or equivalent), and full protective gear. During a fire, irritating and highly toxic gases may be generated by thermal decomposition or combustion. To extinguish fire use water spray, dry chemical, carbon dioxide, or appropriate foam.

Accidental Release Measures

Small spills/leaks

Sweep up, then place into a suitable container for disposal. Avoid generating dusty conditions. Provide ventilation.

Stability and Reactivity

Stability

Stable at room temperature in closed containers under normal storage and handling conditions.

Incompatibilities

Strong oxidizing agents, strong bases.

Decomposition

Carbon monoxide, irritating and toxic fumes and gases, carbon dioxide.