Diphenyl Oxide

Diphenyl oxide is the organic compound with the formula (C₆H₅)₂O. It is a colorless solid/liquid and has an aromatic - geranium odor. It is the simplest diaryl ether and thus enjoys a variety of niche applications. At temperatures of 27ºC and above, diphenyl oxide becomes a colorless liquid and is often used as a heat transfer fluid. Key attributes of this product include: 

• High boiling point
• High flash point
• High purity (>99.9%)
• High solvency
• High thermal stability
• Low polarity
• Low reactivity
• Noticeable odor

Manufacturing Process

Diphenyl oxide is manufactured using the direct phenol method which results in very high purity product (>99.99%); The reaction is as follow: 2 Phenol -> Diphenyl oxide + Water where the global capacity is estimated to be 55,000 metric tons.

Diphenyl oxide can be used as a raw material or chemical intermediate to produce commercial products. It is used in the production of heat transfer fluids for industrial processes, surfactants, greases and lubricants and also plastics. Other applications include the production of insecticides, wood preservatives and flame retardants. Because of the characteristic geranium odor, Diphenyl oxide is sometimes added to soap perfumes.