Absolute VUV photoabsorption cross sections for benzyl alcohol have be
en measured for the first time between 5 and 11 eV using a synchrotron
radiation source. Pseudo-optical EEL data have also been measured for
comparison. The two sets of data are in excellent agreement. The elec
tronic spectroscopy of benzyl alcohol was found to be dominated by the
aromatic ring and was hence similar to that of benzene. Therefore, ch
aracterisation of the benzyl alcohol data is discussed with respect to
the benzene spectrum. A lack of theoretical calculations concerning b
enzyl alcohol is revealed. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights r
eserved.