Phenylacetone

Synonym(s):Benzyl methyl ketone;Phenyl-2-propanone;Phenylacetone

CAS NO.：103-79-7
Empirical Formula: C9H10O
Molecular Weight: 134.18
MDL number: MFCD00017249
EINECS: 203-144-4
SAFETY DATA SHEET (SDS)
Update Date: 2026-05-12 09:16:02

What is Phenylacetone?

Description

Phenylacetone (exempt preparation) (Item No. 16444) is an analytical reference standard categorized as a precursor in the synthesis of amphetamine and methamphetamine. Phenylacetone is regulated as a Schedule II compound in the United States. Phenylacetone (exempt preparation) (Item No. 16444) is provided as a DEA exempt preparation. This product is intended for research and forensic applications.

Chemical properties

1-Phenyl-2-propanone is a colorless liquid with a pleasant odor; it is insoluble in water and soluble in organic solvents.

The Uses of Phenylacetone

A metabolite of Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate.

The Uses of Phenylacetone

In organic synthesis; production of benzyl radicals by photolysis.

Definition

ChEBI: Phenylacetone is a propanone that is propan-2-one substituted by a phenyl group at position 1. It is a member of propanones and a methyl ketone.

Production Methods

1-Phenyl-2-propanone is produced by catalytic ketonization of phenylacetic acid with acetic acid over an alumina-supported cerium oxide catalyst at 400 – 500℃. It may also be produced by the rearrangement of phenylpropylene oxide on zeolites or oxidation of 2-phenylpropanol.

Properties of Phenylacetone

Melting point:	-15 °C
Boiling point:	216 °C
Density	1.003 g/mL at 20 °C(lit.)
refractive index	1.5155-1.5175
Flash point:	83°C
storage temp.	Controlled Substance, -20°C Freezer
solubility	DMSO: 30 mg/ml; Ethanol: 30 mg/ml; Methanol: 50 mg/ml
Water Solubility	Insoluble
BRN	742120
CAS DataBase Reference	103-79-7(CAS DataBase Reference)
NIST Chemistry Reference	Benzyl methyl ketone(103-79-7)
EPA Substance Registry System	2-Propanone, 1-phenyl- (103-79-7)

Safety information for Phenylacetone

Signal word	Warning
Pictogram(s)	Exclamation Mark Irritant GHS07
GHS Hazard Statements	H319:Serious eye damage/eye irritation
Precautionary Statement Codes	P264:Wash hands thoroughly after handling. P264:Wash skin thouroughly after handling. P280:Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P305+P351+P338:IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continuerinsing. P337+P313:IF eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention.