Phenols - nomenclature, preparation, chemical properties. Phenol: what the substance is, its effect on the human body

Substance Phenol, its properties
Phenol is a chemical compound that has the formula C5H6OH and is an artificially derived compound.

Phenol is a substance with a crystalline structure with an odor similar to gouache. But despite these, at first glance, associations, phenol is an extremely toxic substance.

Under the influence of air, phenol can change its color, which is manifested in a change in the color of the crystals: at first they have pink, subsequently turning into brown. And it is precisely this property that allows this substance to be used in the production of dyes.

Worth noting also others chemical properties phenol is its low melting point and ability to dissolve in various types of solvents, both organic and inorganic.

Over the years, phenol, which was used in the production of various building materials, does not lose its toxic properties, and its danger to humans does not decrease. Phenol negatively affects cardiovascular system, nervous and others internal organs, such as kidneys, liver, etc. In many countries, its use in the production of household goods is strictly prohibited due to its toxic activity.

Application of phenol in industry.

We have already said that phenol, when exposed to air, can change its color. In view of this obvious sign, at first phenol was used only in the production of dyes. But subsequently, its antiseptic properties were also discovered in this substance: it became clear that it can be used in the fight against bacteria, sterilize medical instruments, offices, etc.

Phenol has also found its use as a medicine..
Medicines containing this substance are used both externally and internally. Plus, phenol has analgesic properties. On its basis, the well-known aspirin is made and its use takes place in the production of drugs for patients with tuberculosis. Phenol is used in genetic engineering to isolate DNA.

In light industry it is used to treat animal skin, disinfecting it. Phenol is also used to protect crops. But main role phenol plays in the chemical industry. It is used to produce various types of plastics and other synthetic fibers.

To this day some children's toys are made with the addition of this substance, which makes the final product unsafe for human health.

The effect of phenol on the human body

What is the danger of phenol? - ask a question.

Here's the answer: its properties have an extremely negative effect on internal organs. If ingested through the respiratory tract, phenol irritates them and can cause burns. If it comes into contact with the skin, as in the case respiratory tract, burns form that can develop into ulcers. An area of ​​such a burn of 25% will most likely lead to death.

Ingestion of this substance is extremely dangerous., which can lead to internal bleeding, muscle atrophy, peptic ulcer, etc. The withdrawal period for this toxin is 24 hours, but during this period the substance causes irreparable damage that remains noticeable for many years.

The above factors make it clear that no one is immune from damage by phenol. You just have to hope that your home was not built with such a substance, that it was not used in the production of the flooring you are going to buy, that the toys that children play with are made without this toxin.

If you feel slightly unwell, in the absence of any chronic diseases, if there is the slightest suspicion of the presence of such a toxin, it is imperative to conduct an environmental assessment for the presence of phenol vapors

He who is forewarned is forearmed. Be careful!

Allergies are considered the plague of the twenty-first century. More than a third of people in the world are susceptible to this disease. As soon as the allergen enters the body, antibodies appear.

Initially, harmless, passive antibodies, when a subsequent, re-entered allergen, combine with it in cell membranes and rupture these membranes. Histamine molecules are released from the cells. They cause skin diseases - urticaria, inflammation of the mucous membrane, lung disease - bronchial asthma. A violent reaction of antibodies to allergens can lead to death. One of the main allergens is phenol.

Phenol compounds are dangerously poisonous. Especially when inhaling toxic vapors of phenol-containing dust. Phenols easily enter the body from the air through the skin, lungs and stomach, causing the following allergic diseases: swelling of the nose - rhinitis, redness and painful swelling of the eyes - conjunctivitis, diseases of the upper respiratory tract - bronchospasms, shortness of breath and wheezing, asthma attacks .
Ear disease may occur - swelling, pain, and hearing loss.

Skin diseases caused by allergies include eczema, urticaria, and dermatitis. In some cases, severe allergies occur headache. With a violent response of antibodies to phenol allergens, anaphylactic shock can occur - bronchospasm, edema.

A person exposed to carbolic acid for a long time gets many severe, often irreversible, diseases: allergies, diarrhea, mouth ulceration, toxic hepatitis. May be damaged gastrointestinal tract, but the work of the kidneys is most damaged, as they remove phenol from the body.

With prolonged exposure to phenol, poisoning and destruction occurs. nervous system and, as a result, respiratory tract paresis and brain cell death may occur. That is why, if you notice symptoms of an allergic reaction to phenol, or if signs of phenol poisoning appear, such as a skin rash, burning in the mouth, vomiting, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or swelling, you should immediately contact a medical facility.

Where is phenol “hiding”: sources of infection

We have been living in a phenolic environment for a long time. The toxic composition can be found in building materials, carpeting, clothing, toys and food. It is definitely present in household chemicals. The presence of phenol can be noticed by the smell, sweetish, reminiscent of gouache, some say that the smell is “like in a pharmacy.” It is the vapors of phenol, even at the most normal temperature, that cause allergies.

The main sources of phenol can be building materials such as certain types of particleboard products (chipboard) and fiberboard. The polymer material used to finish floors, walls, as well as decorative plastics used to decorate windows and doors can also be a source of phenol allergy.

From such items, phenol can be released for several years. Varnishes and paints in the apartment and plastic windows, baseboards, wall panels, any PVC products also often poison us with phenol: linoleum, laminate, vinyl wallpaper, and other floor coverings contain phenolic dyes. Phenol may be present in insulation materials: artificial mineral wool, for example, is “famous” for its high content of this substance.

Furniture made from fiberboard and chipboard, when exposed to heat, is even more toxic than building materials, Decorative film, adhesive materials, upholstery materials, varnish and enamel used in the manufacture of furniture contain phenol.

Clothing from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, made from fabrics with dyes containing phenol, is also very dangerous.

Among home care products, the most allergenic dyes are all kinds of fragrances, as well as crumbly elements that create powdery dust.

Cosmetics, like household chemicals, contain fragrances and preservatives, and these are phenol and other harmful substances to extend shelf life.

Children's products, mainly Chinese and Taiwanese, manufactured illegally, are also sources of phenol. Phenols and formaldehyde are found in unacceptable concentrations in children's rubber, latex, plastic and soft toys. In the manufacturing process of such products, phenol is used to shape plastic and rubber.

Smoke can become a source of phenol allergy. Cigarette smoke contains phenol as a disinfectant, along with other carcinogens.
When heated, plastic dishes release toxic substances, including phenol, poisoning the human body.

Phenol is present in drinking water and air.

Phenol-impregnated sofas, clothes, household appliances, dishes, toys, cosmetics, household chemicals can somehow be excluded, but worst of all, phenol-containing food and medications. When using medical products and consumer products containing phenol, a person is exposed to much greater poisoning.

A person swallows such drugs, rubs them or applies them to the skin. Numerous disinfectant ointments, nasal drops, ear drops, and herpes lotions, mouth and throat rinses, toothache drops, and antiseptic lotion all contain carbolic acid. Aspirin, antiseptics, and pesticides from the pharmacy are all phenol.

The peels of oranges, apples, and bananas treated with phenol-containing preparations prevent rotting of the fruit. Many other additives are also used in the food industry with good intentions in manufacturing, processing, preservation, and disinfection, but almost all of them are poisonous and cause allergies if they contain phenol.

Types of allergies to phenol

Allergy:

Allergy from the smell and particles of phenol in the air is respiratory. The reaction occurs when dust, pollen, gases, and perfume odors containing phenol enter the body from the air. Symptoms of respiratory allergies are a runny nose, accompanied by itching in the nose, a person sneezes and coughs.

Bronchial asthma is also classified as an allergic disease. Allergic reactions - lacrimation, pain and itching in the eyes are caused by volatile phenols present in the air. With such an allergy, unlike colds, the body temperature does not rise. A child suffering from bronchial asthma can be killed by phenolic compounds.

Contact allergies:

Statistics place contact allergies in second place, after respiratory ones: dermatoses caused by the use of cosmetics, pharmaceutical products, household chemicals, latex. Symptoms of allergic dermatoses are rashes and itching on the skin. The skin turns red, swells, blisters and peeling appear. The rash is usually small and watery, similar to hives.

Respiratory allergies and contact dermatitis are usually recognized 15 or a little later after inhalation or skin contact.

And allergies:

Drug and food allergies usually develop within a day. Signs of food allergies can be: allergic skin lesions, dermatitis, urticaria, Quincke's edema. In addition, gastrointestinal disorders - vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence and respiratory disorders - rhinitis, asthma.

Phenols are present in almost many products, such as salicylates. The body of some children is not able to process phenols into useful substances. Salicylates accumulate to a point that causes allergies. Some people cannot tolerate even natural salicylates of healthy products. The reaction to them, in those who are especially sensitive, can be as severe as when using synthetic additives.

With a drug allergy, the most severe case can occur - anaphylactic shock. The person loses consciousness, has difficulty breathing, the body cramps, and a rash may appear on the body. If you suspect the onset of anaphylactic shock, you should immediately call ambulance. Anaphylaxis can develop within one minute to several hours from the start of contact with allergens.

The main danger of phenol

Phenol is a poison, in excess doses, which causes irreversible damage to many organs. If it enters through the air, it can leave burns that can lead to pulmonary edema.

Phenol - what it is, what effect it has on the body, what the symptoms of poisoning with this substance and its consequences may be - every person living in an urban environment needs to know about this.

There is a strong opinion that phenol compounds are a product of chemical production and they are harmful to environment and living organisms. This is only partly true, since phenol is found in many foods, is part of plants and is one of the elements constantly present in the human body.

What is it?

Phenol is an organic hydrocarbon, also known as hydroxybenzene and carbolic acid.

The effect phenol has on the human body depends on the type of substance - compounds produced by synthesis are dangerous, their evaporation is especially harmful, but natural phenol, on the contrary, is beneficial.

Outside industrial laboratories this substance is found:

1. In nuts.
2. In cocoa beans.
3. In all fruits and berries.
4. In olive and other vegetable oils.

Natural phenol is an antioxidant and preservative that protects plants and fruits from harmful insects and diseases and ensures their safety.

Artificial phenols have the following properties that characterize them:

• Completely soluble in water and alcohols, with large quantities give the liquid a faint smell of gouache paint.
• It begins to evaporate when heated to 40-42 degrees.

Thanks to this, you can be poisoned by phenol completely accidentally, without even knowing about contact with its vapors or with phenol itself dissolved in water or alcoholic beverage.

Where is phenol used?

Chemical compounds of phenol, with which poisoning usually occurs, are used in the manufacture of:

1. Medicines
2. Cosmetics.
3. A number of litmus liquids used in laboratory medical tests.
4. In the production of plastic packaging and plastics.
5. In the paint and varnish and oil refining industries.
6. In the production of fertilizers.
7. In the manufacture of automobile oils, windshield wipers and other technical fluids.
8. In veterinary medicine – for treating the skin of animals.
9. In the production of household chemicals.

The list of uses of phenols is quite voluminous, and you will encounter everyday life the toxic effect of this substance on the body is quite easy. For example, the cause of phenol poisoning can be a simple skin cream forgotten on the windowsill and lying for some time under direct sun rays, heated the flask to 40 degrees and above.

What happens when poisoned?

The artificially obtained substance has a second hazard class, which means it is highly toxic and dangerous for both living organisms and the environment. According to ecologists, the period full recovery natural zone after a phenol leak is from 25 to 35 years, not taking into account the poisoning of animals, the consequences of which are almost impossible to calculate.

People are most often poisoned in pairs of this substance, and this usually occurs due to improper storage or use of products containing phenol, violations of the operating conditions of plastic items and their use for other purposes.

For example, heating food in microwave oven in a plastic container that is not intended for this purpose, that is, does not have the appropriate labeling, can cause mild poisoning, which can be mistaken for food intoxication.

When ingested, phenol has the following effects:

• The mucous membranes are affected, especially the mucous membranes of the eyes, respiratory tract, nasopharynx and esophagus - when inhaling toxic fumes.
• Chemical burns to a severe degree - if phenolic acids come into contact with the skin, for example, when working with pesticides or industrial oils.
• Necrosis of muscle tissue and blood clotting - if ingested with drinks or food.

Regardless of how exactly the toxin entered the body - by inhaling vapors or together with products, the consequences of its toxic influence are:

1. Destruction of red blood cells and breakdown of the integrity of the blood composition, which leads to oxygen starvation.
2. The emergence and rapid development of pyelonephritis.
3. Death of liver cells.
4. Allergic swelling of the respiratory tract and dermatitis.
5. Violation brain activity, breakdown of protein cells in the brain.
6. Dysfunction of neural processes, that is, cessation of the normal functioning of the nervous system.

Intoxication by inhalation, that is, poisoning by vapors of phenol and its compounds, occurs when the toxic substance in the air is at a concentration of 0.01 mg/m³, and the lethal dosage for an adult is 8-10 grams of toxin entering the body; for a child less is required - from 5 to 7 grams of phenol.

How to distinguish poisoning?

Unlike food intoxication, phenol poisoning begins to manifest itself not in the form of nausea, but in the form of brain phenomena and disturbances in nervous activity.

Intoxication with this poison is accompanied by the following signs of poisoning:

• Sudden psycho-emotional arousal, turning into uncontrollable irritation, which is replaced by complete apathy towards everything around.
• There is a loss of strength, general muscle weakness, a desire to rest, and a feeling of severe physical fatigue.
• Tactile sensations decrease, against the background of worsening reactions to light and sound.
• Dizziness appears, sometimes accompanied by loss of coordination in space and time.
• A headache occurs, concentrated in the occipital region, against which medications do not help.
• Motor skills are impaired and spontaneous convulsions may occur.
• The skin turns pale, gets goosebumps, and the person becomes cold.
• Shortness of breath occurs, which is accompanied by the urge to sneeze and spasmodic cough.
• With local contact with phenol, for example, when playing with a toy painted with a dye containing it, a skin rash of a beet-bluish tint develops.

With constant contact with the toxin, chronic phenol poisoning develops, the hallmark of which is persistent physical fatigue, along with irritability, headaches and fatigue.

What should I do?

Treatment of intoxication requires medical intervention; it is impossible to cope with such poisoning on your own and prevent its consequences.

If you notice symptoms of phenol intoxication, you should immediately call doctors, and while the doctors are on their way, provide first aid to the victim.

The specificity of first aid is that first of all it is necessary to isolate the source causing harm to health, that is:

1. Bring the person to fresh air, if harm is caused by phenol vapors concentrated in the room.
2. If the toxin gets on the skin, the affected area should be washed with soap.
3. The victim should be changed, since phenolic fumes tend to accumulate in the fabric.
4. You need to rinse your eyes with plenty of running water, since particles hazardous to health settle on the mucous membranes, and you should also wash your face.
5. If phenol enters the body with water, drinks or food, sorbents should be taken.

Among the sorbent preparations for providing first aid in case of poisoning of the human body with phenolic compounds, the following are most effective:

• Carbolene;
• Enterosorb;
• Sorbex;

Of course, these drugs cannot neutralize the harm, but they help reduce the pathogenic activity of the toxin. It is also useful for restoring health to take activated carbon. It affects not only the digestive system, but also the blood.

Most often, poisoning occurs not through vapors, but through contact, in children; low-quality toys are to blame for this. The first aid in such a situation would be to wash the area of ​​skin in contact with the toxin with soap, rinse the mouth with water and take charcoal in the proportion of 1 puck per 5 kg of weight.

Pre-medical home treatment for this type of poisoning excludes gastric lavage, even if there is confidence that the poison entered the body with drinks or food. Phenol has a different density than gastric juice or foods and liquids in the stomach, so when vomiting is caused, it can burn the mucous membrane of the esophagus.

Video: film about phenol.

What will the doctors do?

Treatment of intoxication with this substance involves the use of its antidote - calcium gluconate. The administration of this solution is carried out only intravenously, and the dosage is determined based on the weight, age of the victim and the severity of the poisoning itself.

Injections with a solution are usually difficult for children to tolerate, so they often replace injections with drips.

In addition to using an antidote, treatment for this poisoning includes the following procedures:

1. General detoxification therapy, this treatment is aimed not so much at destroying the toxin, but at cleaning the blood, kidney and liver tissues and restoring the balance of red blood cells.
2. Hemosorption, this treatment consists of purifying the blood in a medical device, it is similar to a transfusion and is quite painful, this medical action is used when it is impossible to bind and remove poison molecules from the blood in another way.
3. Hemodialysis, that is, “artificial kidneys,” is used if kidney failure has occurred, there is a potential for kidney dysfunction, or for other medical reasons.

People can experience symptoms of intoxication from this substance without being exposed to its vapors or household chemicals, in which it is included, without even using plastic and plastic items and cosmetics. This happens due to the consumption of meat, eggs, milk or cottage cheese that has not passed sanitary checks.

Poisoning of animals with phenol derivatives occurs quite often, since this substance is part of pesticides, fertilizers and a number of drugs used by veterinarians and livestock specialists to treat livestock and poultry.

To avoid the risk of such intoxication, you should only buy livestock products that have health certificates, this is especially important when purchasing them at markets and farmers' fairs.

Elkhova Yana Romanovna

Research work of 10th grade student Elkhova Yana at the regional scientific and practical conference "Eureka".

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municipal budgetary educational institution

secondary school No. 2

named after Hero Soviet Union V.P.Chkalova

Nikolaevsk-on-Amur

Subject:

The influence of phenol and its derivatives on human health.

10th grade student

Supervisor:

Petrochenko A.V.,

Chemistry teacher.

2014

Nikolaevsk-on-Amur

1.Introduction ……………………………………………………………………………..…....3-4

2. Phenol and fepol derivatives. Chemical and physical properties.………4-6

3. Qualitative reaction to phenol. ……………………………………………………6-7

4. Use of phenolic compounds in industry.………………7-8

5. Use of phenol in medicine.……………………………………………8-10

6. The effect of phenol on the human body. ………………………………………10-14

7. Precautionary measures and first aid for poisoning. ………… 14-15

8. Experimental part - study of the content in the river. Cupid phenol. ………… 15-18

9. Conclusion ……………………………………………………………………………18-19

Literature ………………………………………………………………………………..20

1. Introduction

Purpose of the work: Study of phenol and its effect on the state of the human body.

Novelty : previously this study about the effect of phenol and its derivatives on the human body in connection with the environmental situation on the river. Amur, in the city of Nikolaevsk - on - Amur was not carried out.

Scientific hypothesis:is there a relationship between human health and pollution of the Amur River with phenol and its derivatives.

Object of study:phenol and phenol derivatives, river waters Amur

Subject of research:influence of phenol and its derivatives on humans

Research methodology:

1. Working with book sources
2. Working with Internet resources
3. Collection of data on the state of the river water. Amur

Research methods:

1.worked with specialized literature in the city library.

2. Worked with Internet sites on the ecology of the Khabarovsk Territory, China and Japan (translated from Japanese); ecosystem of the river Amur,

3. Vela sociological research on the use of medicines in the treatment of diseases associated with pollution of the biological resources of the Amur River (fish). (KhKGUP branch of Nikolaevsk-on-Amur “Pharmacy”).

4. Revealed frequency of use medicines in the treatment of certain diseases (tuberculosis, painkillers, antifungals, aspirin medications, paracetamol, etc.).

This topic was chosen by me due to its relevance, which is due to the fact that in 2007 inIn Yongji County, Jilin City District, about 160 tons of various pesticides, including phenol derivatives, were thrown into the Songhua River. And since the fish living in the river. Since the Amur River and its tributaries are the main source of writings for the peoples of the Far North, it is important to know what effect phenol has on living organisms.

Also, this topic is of interest to me personally, because... In the future, I plan to work in the healthcare sector, and it is important for me to know what impact the main food product has on the general population of our area.

Therefore, the goal of our work is to study phenol and its effect on the state of the human body.

2. Phenol and phenol derivatives. Chemical and physical properties.

In order to assess the effect of phenol on living organisms and the environment in general, I will analyze the chemical and physical properties of phenol.

Phenol is an artificially derived chemical compound with formula C 6 N 5 OH, which has in its molecule an aromatic (benzene) ring containing one, two or more hydroxyl groups. The simplest representative of phenolic compounds is phenol itself: depending on the number of OH groups, they are distinguishedmonohydric phenols: phenol, chlorophenols, butylphenols, cresols, etc., (highly toxic, are poisons that affect the nervous system, have a pronounced irritant and necrotizing effect), andpolyhydric phenols: pyrocatechol, resorcinol, hydroquinone, etc.,(have irritating, sensitizing, and also toxic effect- blood poisons, methemoglobin formers, cause hemolytic jaundice. Under industrial conditions, the likelihood of inhalation intoxication occurring is low due to low volatility. Possible dermatitis, allergies).

Among polyhydric phenols, dihydric ones are the most common. There are three compounds of diatomic phenols (doixibenzenes):

Pyrocatechol Resorcinol Hydroquinone

As can be seen from the examples given, phenols are characterized by structural isomerism (isomerism of the position of the hydroxy group).

Phenolic compounds are divided into two groups - phenols that are volatile with steam (phenol, cresols, xylenols, guaiacol, thymol) and non-volatile phenols (resorcinol, pyrocatechol, hydroquinone, pyrogallol and other polyhydric phenols). Volatile ones are more toxic and have a strong odor.

Phenol is a white crystalline substance with a specific odor reminiscent of gouache. Phenol crystals have the property of transforming in color when exposed to air: first they become pink, then brown. It is due to this property that phenol is used in the production of many dyes.

Phenol is toxic and may ignite.

Melting point is only 50°, soluble in water, acetone, alkalis, benzene, alcohol.

As stated earlier, phenol is mostly artificial chemical substance, although may be contained in animal waste and organic material.

Typically, phenols under natural conditions are formed in the metabolic processes of aquatic organisms, during the biochemical decomposition and transformation of organic substances occurring both in the water column and in bottom sediments. Phenolic compounds in living plant tissues can be considered potentially toxic substances that can inhibit growth pathogenic fungi or reduce the rate of virus reproduction.

Phenols are weak acids (pK A phenol itself 9.98). High reactivity phenols in oxidation reactions finds technical application when using phenolic compounds as inhibitors of autoxidation processes of oils and fats and has great value in the biosynthesis of natural phenolic compounds. The most important property of phenols from the point of view of isolation and identification is the ability to form salts with metals.

With few exceptions, all phenolic compounds are solid and their color varies from light yellow to red, brown or purple.

3. Qualitative reaction to phenol

The main qualitative reaction of phenol occurs as a result of interaction with iron (III) chloride - a violet color of the solution is formed. This best method detection of phenol, because the reaction is very sensitive. It is worth noting that the color disappears after adding hydrocyanic acid.

Also, phenol, along with aniline, gives a yellowish precipitate when bromine - 2,4,6 - tribromophenol is passed into an aqueous solution:
C 6 H 5 OH + 3Br 2 --> C 6 H 2 OH(Br) 3 ↓ + 3HBr

Phenols give phenol-aldehyde resins when reacted with aldehyde in an acidic environment. In this case, soft porous masses of phenol-aldehyde resins are formed (polycondensation reaction).

thermoplastic phenolic resins of the general formula

In air, phenol oxidizes, first acquiring a pink and then a brown color. This qualitative reactions for phenols.

4. Use of phenolic compounds in industry

When listing the properties of phenol, we have already talked about its ability to change its color when exposed to air. Since this sign was the most obvious, at first phenol was used only for the production of artificial dyes.

Phenolic compounds of plant origin are of great practical importance. Yes, a row food production associated with the transformations of phenolic compounds in the process of obtaining the final product. This primarily applies to the production of black tea, chocolate, coffee, cider, beer, cognac and winemaking.

The transformation of phenolic compounds also plays an important role in the processing of fruits and vegetables.

Phenolic compounds are used in light industry as tannins, antioxidants and food coloring, medicinal and cosmetic preparations. Polymeric phenolic compounds (tannins) are used as colloidal stabilizers in industrial installations as colloidal stabilizers in industrial installations for boiling water, during oil drilling and flotation processes. They are also used for impregnation fishing gear and in the manufacture of plastics.

Molecular biology and genetic engineering cannot do without phenol during the purification and isolation of DNA molecules. Phenol is also used in the production of paracetamol.

Agriculture has learned to use phenol for its own purposes to protect plants.

However, phenol is mainly used in the chemical industry, in the production of plastics and artificial fibers (nylon, nylon).

5. Use of phenol in medicine

After the coloring properties of phenol, its antiseptic properties were discovered: it killed bacteria, which means it could be used in medicine - for example, to disinfect medical instruments and offices. In addition, it began to be used as a medicine (both externally and for oral administration) to fight bacteria and relieve pain. Aspirin and paracetamol, which we all know, are made on the basis of phenol-salicylic acid. Medicines for tuberculosis patients are also produced on the basis of phenol.

It has been proven that 1-2% phenol solutions destroy mold fungi; solutions of 1:500 stop the development of fungi; 1-2% solutions reduce the ability of yeast cells to cause fermentation grape or milk sugar, stronger solutions (4-5%) completely destroy the vital activity of these cells. Bacteria causing rotting organic substances are not so easily affected by phenol; this requires the action of more concentrated solutions and a longer action; So a solution of 1:200 only retards the development of putrefactive microorganisms; to destroy the ability to reproduce the latter, concentrations of 1:25 are required. 1% solutions (according to Koch) have no effect on anthrax spores even for 15 days; 2% delay development after approximately 10-20 hours; 3% cause, after 3 days, free gaps in the wiring, but the spores are killed after 7 days; A 4% solution gives the same effect on the third, and 5% on the second day (it should be noted that carbolic acid in an alcoholic or oily solution does not have even a weak anti-putrefactive effect when microorganisms are outside the body or on artificial nutrient media) . Erysipelas cocci resist the action of a 1% phenol solution for only 60 seconds; diphtheria bacilli show a decrease in growth within 30 seconds; yellow pyogenic grosdecoccus resists a 5-minute action of 1% and a 15-second action of the 2nd solution; The microorganisms of typhus and cerebrospinal meningitis turned out to be more resistant; glanders sticks, chain coccus of puerperal fever were destroyed by 3% carbolic solution in 15-60 seconds. Carbolic acid affects unorganized enzymes to a much lesser extent: adding phenol in a 1/2% ratio to a mixture of saliva and sugar does not affect the physiological properties of saliva. The conversion of protein into peptones under the influence of digestive juice appears to be delayed and even completely stopped by the action of a 1/2% or stronger solution, which is explained by changes physical properties protein, namely by coagulation and difficulty converting it into acidalbumin. The formation of hydrocyanic acid under the action of emulsin on amygdalin is only temporarily stopped by a 4% solution, reappearing after diluting the phenol solution.

Lubrication with concentrated solutions causes whitening of the skin and a feeling of pain; the white spot consists of a very unstable compound of carbolic acid with the tissue of the upper skin; skin areas become 3-5 percent after lubrication. solutions, due to the impregnation of sensitive and insensitive endings with carbolic acid, they experience a feeling of numbness for several hours. These properties of carbolic acid are the basis for its external use in weak solutions as an analgesic and in concentrated solutions as a cauterizing and destructive substance. Due to the anti-putrefactive properties mentioned above, phenol is widely used for the disinfection of objects and premises in which harmful bacteria may remain after infectious patients, as well as in the anti-putrefactive method of treating wounds; For the same purpose, dressings (gauze, cotton wool, cotton wool, etc.) are still impregnated with phenol solutions to this day, although"antiseptic"they are now trying to replace the method"putrefactive" i.e., in a way in which microorganisms are not allowed into the wound, since this results in best results. For burns, lubrication with a 1-2% phenol solution has an anti-putrefactive effect, moderates pain and limits the separation of the ulcer surface; local anesthesia when consuming alcoholic or ethereal solutions is more pronounced than from oil or glycerin solutions. Phenol is prescribed orally, usually in pills, 0.02-0.04 several times a day, against abnormal processes of fermentation or putrefaction in the stomach or intestines, then also for the same processes in respiratory organs, and in such diseases inhalations of a 1-2% phenol solution have proven useful, but oral administration also provides some improvement in putrefactive bronchitis and gangrene of the lungs. There is no doubt the benefit of using phenol for disinfecting the patient’s departments and secretions, his linen, home, etc. The most commonly used preparations are: crystalline carbolic acid, crude carbolic acid (should contain, according to Russian pharmaceuticals, 50% phenol) and liquid carbolic acid (about 10 % phenol).

6. Effect of phenol on the human body

Phenol is very poisonous. It enters the body through the respiratory system, skin and mucous membranes, causing dysfunction of the nervous system. It is excreted in the lungs and in the urine (in the form of paired compounds with sulfuric and glucuronic acids). Dust, vapors and phenol solution have an irritating effect on the organs of vision, breathing, digestion and skin. Affects the nervous system. In acute poisoning - impairment of respiratory functions and central nervous system. In case of chronic poisoning, liver dysfunction occurs. Phenol is a toxic substance that causes cough, allergies, asthma, tuberculosis, headaches, loss of strength, disrupts the functioning of the nervous system, and phenol vapors provoke cancer. After phenol poisoning, autopsies show the highest concentration in the kidneys, then in the liver, heart, blood and brain.

The serious consequences of exposure to hazardous substances generally increase with the level and duration of exposure. Repeated exposure of humans to low concentrations of phenol in drinking water has been associated with diarrhea and mouth ulcers; eating large quantities phenol ends in death. Laboratory animals that drank water with very high levels of phenol had muscle tremors and loss of coordination.

Symptoms

Acute poisoning

In acute inhalation poisoning, weakness, mild agitation, headache, dizziness, increased salivation, and irritation of the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract are noted. In the urine there is protein and red blood cells. In rare cases, there is blood pigment in the urine - so-called hemoglobinuria is observed.

Acute poisoning can occur as a result of phenol coming into contact with the skin. Signs of a burn (initial pallor, wrinkling of the affected area of ​​skin, subsequently hyperemia, formation of blisters, necrosis) appear already when 2-3% phenol solutions come into contact with the skin. At the site of contact, tingling or immediate numbness is usually felt (the absence of pain may be the reason for untimely provision of first aid). If 1/6 of the skin surface is affected, severe poisoning is observed with impaired function of the nervous system, blood circulation, breathing, and increased temperature.

In case of accidental ingestion of carbolic acid - a characteristic odor from the mouth, a burn of the oral cavity, white spots on the mucous membrane, sharp pain in the throat, stomach, vomiting of brown masses with a characteristic odor, pallor of the face, dilated pupils, difficulty breathing and disturbance of its rhythm, drop in heart rate activity, profuse sweat, a sharp drop in body temperature, dark green urine, there may be kidney damage, convulsions, loss of consciousness, coma.

Burns of the mucous membrane produced by phenol rarely penetrate the muscular layer of the latter, and they usually do not occur below the duodenum; sometimes limited and diffuse bruises were found in the first tracts of the digestive canal, in other cases the mucous membrane acquired a harder consistency, resembling tanned leather. The stomach contains brown coagulated blood, the intestines are covered with bloody mucus; pulmonary edema was often observed; in the kidneys there is hyperemia, swelling of the cortex, blood blockages in the cortex and fatty degeneration of the renal epithelium. In rare cases, after such symptoms, a fairly rapid recovery of strength was observed, but in the vast majority of cases, despite the occasional return of consciousness, death occurs very quickly due to difficulty breathing and extreme decline in cardiac activity. The possibility of fatal phenol poisoning after external use of large quantities on intact skin has been proven both by observations in humans and experimental studies on animals.

Chronic poisoning

In case of chronic poisoning - weakness, sweating, irritability, increased fatigue, bad dream, headaches, dizziness, dyspepsia, functional disorders of the central nervous system, secretory-motor activity of the stomach, initial symptoms of chronic toxic hepatitis. Dry skin, itching, dermatitis.

Maximum permissible concentrations (MPC) of phenol:

MPCr.z. = 1 mg/m³

Phenol is a chemical organic matter, hydrocarbon. Other names: carbolic acid, hydroxybenzene. It comes in natural and industrial origin. What is phenol and what is its significance in human life?

Origin of the substance, chemical and physical properties

The chemical formula of phenol is c6h5oh. By appearance the substance resembles crystals in the form of needles, transparent, with a white tint. On outdoors When interacting with oxygen, the color becomes light pink. The substance has a specific odor. Phenol smells like gouache paint.

Natural phenols are antioxidants that are present in varying quantities in all plants. They determine color, aroma, and protect plants from harmful insects. Natural phenol is beneficial for the human body. It is contained in olive oil, cocoa beans, fruits, nuts. But there are also toxic compounds, such as tannin.

The chemical industry produces these substances through synthesis. They are poisonous and very toxic. Phenol is dangerous for humans, and its industrial scale production significantly pollutes the environment.

Physical properties:

• Phenol dissolves normally in water, alcohol, alkali;
• has low temperature melting, turns into gas at 40°C;
• its properties are in many ways similar to alcohol;
• has high acidity and solubility;
• at room temperature they are in a solid state;
• The smell of phenol is pungent.

How are phenols used?

More than 40% of substances are used in the chemical industry to obtain other organic compounds, mostly resins. It is also made from artificial fibers - nylon, nylon. The substance is used in the oil refining industry to purify oils that are used in drilling rigs and other technological facilities.

Phenol is used for the production of paints and varnishes, plastics, and in chemicals and pesticides. In veterinary medicine, farm animals are treated with the substance to prevent infections.

The use of phenol in the pharmaceutical industry is significant. It is included in many medications:

• antiseptics;
• painkillers;
• antiplatelet agents (thin the blood);
• as a preservative for vaccine production;
• in cosmetology as part of preparations for chemical peeling.

In genetic engineering, phenol is used to purify DNA and extract it from cells.

Toxic effect of phenol

Phenol is poison. In terms of its toxicity, the compound belongs to hazard class 2. This means that it is highly hazardous to the environment. The degree of impact on living organisms is high. The substance can cause serious damage to the ecological system. The minimum recovery period after the action of phenol is at least 30 years, provided that the source of pollution is completely eliminated.

Synthetic phenol has a negative effect on the human body. Toxic effect of the compound on organs and systems:

1. If vapors are inhaled or swallowed, the mucous membranes of the digestive tract, upper respiratory tract, and eyes are affected.
2. If it comes into contact with the skin, a phenol burn will form.
3. With deep penetration it causes tissue necrosis.
4. Has a pronounced toxic effect on internal organs. When the kidneys are damaged, it causes pyelonephritis, destroys the structure of red blood cells, which leads to oxygen starvation. Can cause allergic dermatitis.
5. When phenol is inhaled in high concentrations, brain activity is disrupted and can lead to respiratory arrest.

The mechanism of the toxic effect of phenols is a change in the structure of the cell and, as a consequence, its functioning. Neurons (nerve cells) are the most susceptible to toxic substances.

Maximum permissible concentration (MPC of phenol):

• maximum single dose in the atmosphere for populated areas is 0.01 mg/m³, which stays in the air for half an hour;
• the average daily dose in the atmosphere for populated areas is 0.003 mg/m³;
• the lethal dose when ingested is for adults from 1 to 10 g, for children from 0.05 to 0.5 g.

Symptoms of phenol poisoning

The harm of phenol to living organisms has long been proven. When it comes into contact with the skin or mucous membranes, the compound is quickly absorbed, overcomes the hematogenous barrier and spreads through the blood throughout the body.

The brain is the first to respond to the effects of poison. Signs of poisoning in humans:

• Psyche. Initially, the patient experiences mild excitement, which does not last long and is replaced by irritation. Then comes apathy, indifference to what is happening around, the person is in a depressed state.
• Nervous system. General weakness, lethargy, loss of strength increases. Tactile sensitivity is blurred, but the reaction to light and sounds is exacerbated. The victim feels nausea, which is not related to the functioning of the digestive system. Dizziness appears and the headache becomes more intense. Severe poisoning can lead to convulsions and unconsciousness.
• Skin. The skin becomes pale and cold to the touch, and in severe cases acquires a blue tint.
• Respiratory organs. If even small doses enter the body, a person may experience shortness of breath and rapid breathing. Due to irritation of the nasal mucosa, the victim is continuously sneezing. In case of moderate poisoning, a cough and spastic contractions of the larynx develop. In severe cases, the threat of spasm of the trachea and bronchi increases and, as a result, suffocation, leading to death.

Circumstances under which poisoning can occur are violation of safety rules when working with particularly dangerous substances, overdose of medications, household poisoning with detergents and cleaning products, as a result of an accident.

If the house contains low-quality furniture, children's toys that do not meet international safety standards, or the walls are painted with paint that is not intended for these purposes, then the person constantly inhales the emanating phenol vapors. In this case, chronic poisoning develops. Its main symptom is chronic fatigue syndrome.

Principles of first aid

The first thing to do is to interrupt human contact with the poisonous source.

Take the victim out of the room into fresh air, unfasten buttons, locks, and zippers to better ensure access to oxygen.

If the phenol solution gets on your clothing, remove it immediately. Rinse the affected skin and mucous membranes of the eyes thoroughly and repeatedly with running water.

If phenol gets into the mouth, do not swallow anything, but immediately rinse your mouth for 10 minutes. If the substance has managed to enter the stomach, you can drink the sorbent with a glass of water:

• activated or white carbon;
• enterosorb;
• enterosgel;
• sorbex;
• carbolene;
• polysorb;
• lactofiltrum.

You should not rinse the stomach, as this procedure will increase the severity of the burn and increase the area of ​​damage to the mucous membrane.

Phenol antidote is a solution of calcium gluconate for intravenous administration. In case of poisoning of any severity, the victim is taken to the hospital for observation and treatment.

In case of severe poisoning, phenol can be removed from the body in a hospital setting using the following methods:

1. Hemosorption is the purification of blood with a special sorbent that binds molecules of a toxic substance. The blood is purified by passing through a special apparatus.
2. Detoxification therapy is an intravenous infusion of solutions that dilute the concentration of a substance in the blood and promote its natural elimination from the body (through the kidneys).
3. Hemodialysis is indicated in severe cases where there is a potential threat to life. The procedure is carried out using an “artificial kidney” apparatus, in which the blood passes through special membranes and leaves molecules of a toxic substance. Blood returns to the body clean and saturated with useful microelements.

Phenol is a synthetic toxic substance that is dangerous to humans. Even a naturally occurring compound can be harmful to health. To avoid poisoning, it is necessary to responsibly work in production where there is a risk of contact with poison. When shopping, be interested in the composition of the products. Unpleasant smell plastic products should be wary. When using medications containing phenol, follow the prescribed dosage.