biphenyl

[ bahy-fen-l, -feen-l ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a water-insoluble, pleasant-smelling, colorless powder or white scales, C 12 H 10 , composed of two phenyl groups, from which benzidine dyes are derived: used chiefly as a heat-transfer agent and in organic synthesis.

biphenyl

/ -ˈfiː-; baɪˈfɛnəl /

noun

1. a white or colourless crystalline solid used as a heat-transfer agent, as a fungicide, as an antifungal food preservative ( E230 ) on the skins of citrus fruit, and in the manufacture of dyes, etc. Formula: C 6 H 5 C 6 H 5
2. any substituted derivative of biphenyl

Word History and Origins

Origin of biphenyl¹

First recorded in 1920–25; bi- ¹ + phenyl

Example Sentences

The environmental authority for the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, where Leverkusen is located, said Wednesday that the smoke contained dioxin, polychlorinated biphenyl and furan compounds.

From Seattle Times

Currently, biphenyl-153 is only manufactured in a very limited capacity, such as in electronics and electronic products sold in the European Union.

From Salon

In the past, however, biphenyl-153 was commonly used as a fire retardant in products like automobile upholstery, lacquers and coatings, as well as a flame retardant additive in molded plastics, textiles and synthetic fibers.

From Salon

Mr. Milliken faced a disaster in 1973 when a chemical company accidentally shipped fire retardant containing highly toxic polybrominated biphenyl, or PBB, instead of cattle feed to thousands of farmers.

From Washington Post

Milliken faced a disaster in 1973 when a chemical company accidentally shipped fire retardant containing highly toxic polybrominated biphenyl, or PBB, instead of cattle feed to thousands of farmers.

From Washington Times