2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid, commonly known as salicylic acid, holds significant relevance in everyday life due to its myriad applications in various industries. This compound is commonly utilized in the production of skincare products, where its anti-inflammatory and exfoliating properties make it a staple ingredient in acne treatments, peels, and anti-aging formulations. Moreover, salicylic acid is also employed in the manufacturing of aspirin, a widely-used medication for pain relief and fever reduction. Its versatility and effectiveness make 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid a valuable component in both personal care and pharmaceutical products, impacting the daily lives of countless individuals.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid, also known as salicylaldehyde, finds various commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used in the production of fragrances, flavors, and dyes due to its aromatic properties. Additionally, this compound serves as a precursor in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and other organic compounds.
In the field of drug and medication applications, 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid plays a crucial role in the manufacturing of salicylaldehyde-based medications, such as salicylic acid derivatives. These medications are known for their anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antiplatelet properties, making them essential in the treatment of various health conditions. Moreover, this compound is utilized in the production of skin-care products due to its exfoliating and anti-inflammatory effects.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid is a white crystalline solid with no distinct odor.
The molar mass of 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid is approximately 152.14 g/mol, and its density is about 1.384 g/cm³. This molar mass is higher than common food items like sugar (sucrose) at 342.3 g/mol, while its density is similar to water at 1 g/cm³.
The melting point of 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid is around 176-178°C, while the boiling point is approximately 394-395°C. These points are higher than those of common food items like butter (melting point around 32-35°C) and water (boiling point at 100°C).
2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid is sparingly soluble in water, forming a clear solution, and has a low viscosity. This solubility is lower than common food items like table salt (sodium chloride), which is highly soluble in water, while the viscosity is similar to water’s low viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Producing 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid involves the hydrolysis of methyl 2-[(tert-butoxycarbonyl)amino]-2-methylpropanoate with hydrochloric acid to obtain the intermediate compound. This intermediate compound is then subjected to a reaction with sodium hydroxide to yield 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid as the final product. The process requires careful monitoring of reaction conditions to ensure optimal yield.
Procuring 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid typically involves purchasing the compound from chemical suppliers that specialize in providing fine chemicals. The compound is usually available in various quantities, ranging from small research-grade amounts to bulk quantities for industrial use. Once procured, the compound can be transported in sealed containers to prevent contamination or degradation during transit.
Transporting 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid requires adherence to regulations governing the handling and shipment of hazardous chemicals. Proper labeling, packaging, and documentation are essential to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements. Additionally, transportation methods should be chosen to minimize the risk of spills or accidents during transit.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid include proper storage to prevent contact with incompatible materials, such as strong oxidizing agents. It is important to use personal protective equipment, such as gloves and safety goggles, when handling this compound to avoid skin and eye irritation. In case of accidental exposure, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately.
The hazard statements for 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid include “Causes skin irritation” and “Causes serious eye irritation.” These statements indicate the potential health risks associated with exposure to this compound. It is important to handle 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid with care to prevent any harmful effects on the skin and eyes.
Precautionary statements for 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid include “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.” This precautionary measure emphasizes the importance of using personal protective equipment when handling this compound. It is also recommended to wash hands thoroughly after handling 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid and to dispose of it properly according to local regulations.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid is its use as a building block for the synthesis of various biologically active compounds, due to its versatile reactivity. This could lead to the development of new pharmaceuticals or agrochemicals with enhanced properties.
Additionally, the study of the chemical and physical properties of 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid may provide insights into its behavior in different environments, such as aqueous solutions or organic solvents. This could have implications for its potential use in industrial processes or as a component in materials science.
Exploring the potential biological activities of 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid could uncover its role in biological systems and its potential interactions with cellular targets. This could lead to the discovery of new drug targets or therapeutic strategies for treating various diseases.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid is 3-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid, which differs from the former by the position of the hydroxymethyl group on the benzene ring. This compound maintains the hydroxymethyl group attached to the benzene ring, but at the third carbon atom instead of the second. This variation in position may lead to different chemical properties and reactivity compared to 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid.
Another analogous compound to 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid is 2-(Carboxymethyl)benzoic acid, where the hydroxyl group is replaced with a carboxyl group. This replacement introduces a negatively charged carboxylate moiety, which can alter the compound’s solubility, acidity, and interactions with other molecules. Despite the difference in functional groups, the overall structure and aromaticity of the benzene ring remain consistent with 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid.
A further related compound to 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid is 2-(Aminomethyl)benzoic acid, in which the hydroxyl group is substituted with an amino group. This alteration results in a basic compound with different chemical properties and potential applications compared to 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzoic acid. The presence of the amino group can enable interactions with acidic functional groups and may influence the compound’s biological activity or targeting abilities.
