Phenols: Phenols are a class of organic compounds containing a hydroxyl group (-OH) bonded directly to an aromatic hydrocarbon ring. They have diverse applications in the chemical industry, including the production of resins, pharmaceuticals, and plastics.
Cumene Process: The cumene process is an industrial method for the production of phenol and acetone. It involves the oxidation of cumene (isopropylbenzene) to form cumene hydroperoxide, which is then cleaved to yield phenol and acetone.
Oxidation: Oxidation is a chemical reaction in which a substance loses electrons, resulting in an increase in its oxidation state. In the context of the cumene process, the oxidation of cumene to cumene hydroperoxide is a key step.