Abstract

The simplest member of the aromatic carboxylic acid family, benzoic acid was first described in the 17^th century and initially used extensively as a medicinal substance. Currently the main uses for benzoic acid are as a chemical additive in alkyd resins and as a raw material in the manufacture of phenol, caprolactam, glycol dibenzoate plasticizer esters, and in the production of the food preservatives, sodium and potassium benzoates.

The liquid phase air oxidation of toluene provides most of the world's supply of benzoic acid. Large quantities of benzaldehyde can be recovered in the same process.

Other major derivatives of benzoic acid include benzoyl chloride, benzoic anhydride, and a number of benzyl esters, used in fragrances and personal care products. These include methyl, ethyl, butyl and hexyl benzoate as well as alkyl (C12-15) benzoate.