1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol, also known as α-methylbenzyl alcohol, plays a significant role in everyday life as a common ingredient in various consumer products. It is widely used as a preservative in personal care products such as lotions, creams, and shampoos, as well as in pharmaceuticals and industrial applications. In addition, 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol is utilized in the synthesis of other chemicals, making it an important component in the manufacturing sector. Its versatile properties and widespread applications underscore its relevance in our daily lives.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol, commonly known as α-Methylbenzyl alcohol, has various commercial and industrial applications. It is used as a fragrance ingredient in perfumes, soaps, and cosmetics. It also serves as a precursor in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and other organic compounds.
In the pharmaceutical industry, 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol is utilized as a chiral auxiliary in asymmetric synthesis. It is also employed as a resolving agent for racemic mixtures. Additionally, this compound is used in the production of certain medications, such as antihistamines and antifungal agents.
Overall, 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol plays a significant role in both commercial and industrial sectors. Its versatile applications make it a valuable chemical compound in various fields, ranging from fragrance production to pharmaceutical synthesis.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol appears as white crystals with a slightly sweet odor. Its chemical formula is C8H10O2.
The molar mass of 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol is 138.16 g/mol, and its density is around 1.11 g/cm3. This molar mass and density are higher than common food items like sugar and salt.
The melting point of 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol is approximately 69-72°C, while its boiling point is around 300-310°C. These values are higher than those of common food items like butter and vegetable oil.
1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol is slightly soluble in water and has a moderate viscosity. This solubility and viscosity are lower compared to common food items like honey and syrup.
🏭 Production & Procurement
1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol is primarily produced through the reaction between benzaldehyde and ethylene glycol. This process involves the use of a catalyst, typically zinc chloride, to facilitate the formation of the desired product. The reaction proceeds via a nucleophilic addition mechanism, resulting in the formation of 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol as the final product.
Once produced, 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol can be procured through chemical suppliers or specialty manufacturers. The compound is typically transported in sealed containers to prevent contamination or degradation during transit. Due to its chemical nature, proper handling and storage procedures must be followed to ensure the integrity and stability of the product.
In the procurement and transportation of 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol, strict adherence to safety regulations and guidelines is essential. Proper labeling, packaging, and documentation are required to comply with regulatory requirements and ensure safe handling practices. Additionally, coordination with trained professionals and specialized carriers may be necessary to facilitate the secure transport of the compound.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol, also known as phenylglycidol, are important to follow due to its potential hazards. This compound should be handled with care as it may cause skin and eye irritation. Protective equipment such as goggles and gloves should be worn when working with this chemical to prevent any contact with the skin or eyes. In addition, proper ventilation should be ensured to avoid inhaling vapors or dust particles of 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol, as it may cause respiratory irritation.
Hazard statements for 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol include: “Causes skin and eye irritation.” This indicates that contact with this compound can lead to irritation of the skin and eyes, emphasizing the importance of using appropriate protective equipment when handling this chemical. It is essential to take necessary precautions to avoid direct contact with 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol to prevent any adverse effects on the skin and eyes.
Precautionary statements for 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol include: “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.” This statement highlights the importance of wearing appropriate protective gear to prevent skin and eye irritation when working with this chemical. Additionally, it is recommended to ensure proper ventilation and avoid breathing in vapors or dust of 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol to minimize the risk of respiratory irritation. Following these precautionary measures can help minimize the potential hazards associated with handling 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Research on 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol may investigate its potential use as a building block in organic synthesis due to its unique chemical structure. Furthermore, studies could focus on exploring its reactivity with various functional groups to expand its synthetic applications.
Another possible research direction could involve examining the pharmacological properties of 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol to ascertain its potential as a drug candidate. Evaluating its interaction with biological targets and studying its effects on cells could provide valuable insights into its medicinal potential.
Additionally, research may delve into the environmental impact of 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol, including its biodegradability and toxicity. Understanding how this compound interacts with the environment can help in assessing its potential risks and guiding regulatory decisions on its use in various industrial applications.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol based upon molecular structure is 2-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol. This compound has a similar structure to 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol, but the phenyl group is attached to the second carbon atom instead of the first. This change in position of the phenyl group results in different chemical and physical properties compared to 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol.
Another compound with a similar structure to 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol is 1,2-Diphenylethanediol. In this compound, there are two phenyl groups attached to the two carbon atoms of the ethanediol molecule. This results in a molecule with a bulkier structure compared to 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol, leading to different chemical reactivity and physical properties.
A third compound that bears resemblance to 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol in terms of molecular structure is 1-Phenylpropan-2-ol. In this compound, the ethanediol portion is reduced to a single carbon atom, resulting in a propyl group. The phenyl group is attached to this propyl group, leading to a molecule with different chemical and physical properties compared to both 1-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol and the aforementioned similar compounds.
