Styrene Oxide

**Semantic type:** Hazardous or Poisonous Substance

**Definition:** A synthetic, colorless liquid that is very soluble in water. Styrene oxide is used as a chemical intermediate in the production of styrene glycol and its derivatives, cosmetics, surface coatings and other chemicals (agricultural and biological). It is also used as a reactive diluent for epoxy resins and in cross-linked polyesters and polyurethanes. Humans in the general population may be exposed to styrene oxide by contact with contaminated air or water. It is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen. (NCI05)

**Synonyms:** - 1,2-Epoxyethylbenzene - 1-Phenyl-1,2-epoxyethane - 1-Phenyloxirane - Epoxystyrene - Phenylethylene Oxide - Phenyloxirane - STYRENE OXIDE - Styrene-7,8-oxide