2-Methyl-2-heptanol, a derivative of heptanol, is a compound that finds application in various consumer products and industries. This chemical compound is commonly used as a solvent in the manufacturing of paints, coatings, and varnishes. Additionally, it is utilized as a fragrance ingredient in the production of perfumes and other personal care products. Its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances makes it a versatile compound with diverse applications in everyday life.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
2-Methyl-2-heptanol, also known as tert-amyl alcohol, is commonly used in commercial and industrial applications as a solvent in coatings, adhesives, and printing inks. Its high solvency and low toxicity make it a preferred choice in these industries, where performance and safety are paramount.
In the pharmaceutical industry, 2-Methyl-2-heptanol is used as a solvent in drug formulations due to its ability to dissolve a wide range of compounds. It is also utilized in the production of medications where precise control over solubility and stability is required. Additionally, its low odor and minimal interference with drug efficacy make it an attractive option for pharmaceutical applications.
Overall, 2-Methyl-2-heptanol’s versatile properties make it a valuable component in various commercial, industrial, and pharmaceutical applications. Its ability to act as a reliable solvent while maintaining high safety standards makes it a popular choice among manufacturers and researchers alike.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
2-Methyl-2-heptanol is a colorless liquid with a mild, floral odor. This compound is commonly used in the production of flavors and fragrances due to its pleasant scent.
With a molar mass of approximately 130.23 g/mol and a density of about 0.83 g/cm³, 2-Methyl-2-heptanol is lighter than many common food items such as sugar (180.16 g/mol) and olive oil (0.92 g/cm³).
The melting point of 2-Methyl-2-heptanol is around -70°C, while its boiling point is approximately 165°C. These values are significantly lower than those of common food items like butter (melting point of 32-35°C) and water (boiling point of 100°C).
2-Methyl-2-heptanol is slightly soluble in water and has a relatively low viscosity. This contrasts with common food items such as salt, which is highly soluble in water, and honey, which has a high viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
2-Methyl-2-heptanol, also known as tert-amyl alcohol, is typically produced through the reaction of isobutylene with triethylaluminum, followed by a hydrolysis step. This process yields a mixture of isomeric alcohols, one of which is 2-Methyl-2-heptanol. The desired product can then be separated and purified using distillation techniques.
2-Methyl-2-heptanol can be procured from chemical suppliers who manufacture and distribute specialty chemicals. It is typically available in liquid form, packaged in drums or intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) for ease of transportation. Due to its flammable nature, proper handling and storage procedures must be followed during procurement and transport to ensure safety.
Once procured, 2-Methyl-2-heptanol can be transported via various methods, such as tanker trucks for bulk quantities or smaller containers for smaller shipments. It is important to adhere to regulatory requirements and guidelines for the transportation of hazardous materials when moving this substance. Additionally, proper labeling and documentation must be provided to ensure compliance with shipping regulations.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 2-Methyl-2-heptanol primarily revolve around its potential hazards as a chemical substance. When handling this compound, it is essential to wear suitable protective clothing, including gloves and goggles, to prevent skin and eye contact. Additionally, proper ventilation is crucial to avoid inhalation of vapors, which may cause respiratory irritation. Care should be taken to store 2-Methyl-2-heptanol in a cool, dry place away from sources of ignition to minimize the risk of fire or explosion.
The hazard statements associated with 2-Methyl-2-heptanol include “Causes skin irritation” and “Causes serious eye irritation.” These statements indicate that the compound has the potential to irritate and damage the skin and eyes upon contact. It is important to take precautions to minimize exposure to these areas when working with 2-Methyl-2-heptanol to prevent adverse effects.
Precautionary statements for 2-Methyl-2-heptanol include “Wash hands thoroughly after handling” and “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.” These statements emphasize the importance of practicing good hygiene and using appropriate protective equipment when working with 2-Methyl-2-heptanol to prevent skin and eye irritation. It is essential to follow these precautions to ensure the safe handling of the compound and minimize the risk of harm.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Potential research directions for 2-Methyl-2-heptanol include studies on its impact on human health and the environment. Researchers may explore the toxicological effects of this compound through in vitro and in vivo experiments to determine its safety levels and potential risks.
Furthermore, investigations into the industrial applications of 2-Methyl-2-heptanol can be pursued to understand its potential uses in various industries. This may involve examining its solvency properties, chemical reactions, and compatibility with other compounds to determine its feasibility in industrial processes.
Additionally, research on the synthesis and production of 2-Methyl-2-heptanol is essential to further optimize its manufacturing process. By studying different synthetic routes, reaction conditions, and catalysts, researchers can improve the efficiency, yield, and cost-effectiveness of producing this compound on a larger scale.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 2-Methyl-2-heptanol is 3-Methyl-2-heptanol. This compound has a similar molecular structure to 2-Methyl-2-heptanol, with a methyl group attached to the second carbon atom in the heptanol chain. This slight variation in the position of the methyl group results in different physical and chemical properties compared to 2-Methyl-2-heptanol.
Another compound similar to 2-Methyl-2-heptanol is 2-Methyl-3-heptanol. In this compound, the methyl group is attached to the third carbon atom in the heptanol chain, rather than the second as in 2-Methyl-2-heptanol. This difference in the position of the methyl group leads to distinct characteristics in terms of solubility, boiling point, and reactivity compared to 2-Methyl-2-heptanol.
One more compound with a molecular structure similar to 2-Methyl-2-heptanol is 2-Ethyl-2-heptanol. In 2-Ethyl-2-heptanol, an ethyl group is attached to the second carbon atom in the heptanol chain, instead of a methyl group. This substitution results in differences in physical properties such as odor, density, and viscosity compared to 2-Methyl-2-heptanol. Despite these variations, the structural similarity between these compounds allows for comparisons in their behavior and applications.
