CAS Number: 92-52-4. A white, crystalline hydrocarbon used
primarily as a heat-transfer medium. Chemical formula =
C6H5·C6H5. Molecular weight = 154.20 g/mol.
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Biphenyl is used in organic syntheses, heat transfer fluids, dye
carriers, food preservatives, as an intermediate for
polychlorinated biphenyls, and as a fungistat in the packaging of
citrus fruits. In workers, acute (short-term) exposure to high
levels of biphenyl has been observed to cause eye and skin
irritation and toxic effects on the liver, kidneys, and central
and peripheral nervous systems. Kidney effects have been
observed in chronically (long-term) exposed animals. EPA has
classified biphenyl as a Group D, not classifiable as to human
carcinogenicity.