Answer to Question #67774 in Physical Chemistry for Tracey

Question

My Benzyl Benzoate has gone from a liquid to a moist solid, I wondered what had caused this and if the secretions from the block could still be used for its original purpose as a Feather Mite 'a' cide

Answer 1

Solution: Benzyl benzoate is an antiseptic. Benzyl benzoate is poorly soluble in water - it remains in the oil and does not allow the ether to crystallize. And if there were no more other solvents in the oil solution, the ether remains one on one with oil and can crystallize directly in the muscle - which is a pain for several days.