Phenol crystals stuck in container !? How should i take them out ?

Question

Help!! I bought a bottle of phenol crystals and apparently its frozen in place as a iant chunk.....i am unable to remove the crystals from the container ..the main problem is that its mouth is very small and i cant even leave the mouth open as it fumes.

Answer 1

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I would work under the fume hood, and try to get something into the container to smash them, such as a scoopula, mortar, spatula, etc. Just be really careful not to contaminate the crystals or get any on your skin.

If all else fails, put the container in a water bath on a hotplate in the fume hood, and try melting them.

Hope it helps!

P.S. If you don't have a fume hood, I advise not working with Phenol.

Answer 2

Considering that phenol melts at 40.5 degrees C, close the bottle up and warm it in a warm water bath until it melts. You can get it out after it liquifies, Do use a hood and protective gear, just in case.