2-Methyl-2-hexanol, a common chemical compound, is frequently utilized in everyday life for its various applications. It is commonly found in household products such as perfumes, air fresheners, and cleaning agents due to its pleasant aroma and solubility in water. Additionally, 2-Methyl-2-hexanol is employed in the pharmaceutical industry as a precursor in the synthesis of certain medications. Its versatile nature and widespread usage make it an important component of many consumer goods, highlighting its relevance in daily life.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
2-Methyl-2-hexanol, also known as tert-amyl alcohol, is primarily used as a solvent in various commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly employed in the production of fragrances, flavors, and cosmetics due to its pleasant odor and low toxicity. Additionally, it is utilized as a coupling agent in paint and coating formulations to improve solubility and stability.
In the pharmaceutical industry, 2-Methyl-2-hexanol has limited applications as compared to its use in other sectors. The compound is predominantly employed as an intermediate in the synthesis of certain medications and pharmaceutical ingredients. It serves as a building block for the production of pharmaceutical compounds like tert-amyl phthalate, which is used as a plasticizer in drug formulations.
Although not extensively utilized in drug manufacturing, 2-Methyl-2-hexanol plays a crucial role in certain medical applications. Due to its solvent properties and relative safety profile, it is incorporated in the production of topical medications, ointments, and creams. Its ability to dissolve various compounds effectively makes it a valuable ingredient in dermatological and transdermal drug delivery systems.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
2-Methyl-2-hexanol is a colorless liquid with a characteristic minty odor. It is commonly used as a fragrance in personal care products and as a flavoring agent in food products due to its pleasant smell.
With a molar mass of 118.18 g/mol and a density of 0.808 g/cm³, 2-Methyl-2-hexanol is lighter than many common food items such as sugar (molar mass: 342.30 g/mol, density: 1.59 g/cm³) and olive oil (molar mass: ~885 g/mol, density: ~0.92 g/cm³).
The melting point of 2-Methyl-2-hexanol is -53°C, while its boiling point is 122°C. In comparison, common food items like butter have a melting point around 32°C and a boiling point around 177°C.
2-Methyl-2-hexanol is slightly soluble in water and exhibits a low viscosity. Compared to common food items like salt (high solubility in water) and honey (high viscosity), 2-Methyl-2-hexanol falls somewhere in between in terms of solubility and viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
The production of 2-Methyl-2-hexanol typically involves the hydration of 2-methyl-2-hexene, a reaction that occurs in the presence of a strong acid catalyst. This process results in the formation of 2-Methyl-2-hexanol, which can then be separated and purified through distillation.
2-Methyl-2-hexanol can be procured from chemical suppliers who specialize in the production and distribution of various organic compounds. It is commonly available in varying purities, typically ranging from 95% to 99%. The compound is typically shipped in sealed containers to prevent contamination and ensure safe handling during transportation.
Transportation of 2-Methyl-2-hexanol is typically done in accordance with regulations governing the transportation of hazardous chemicals. The compound is classified as a flammable liquid, requiring proper labeling, packaging, and handling procedures during transportation. It is often transported in bulk quantities using specialized tanker trucks or containers.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety Considerations for 2-Methyl-2-hexanol:
2-Methyl-2-hexanol, also known as tert-amyl alcohol, is a colorless liquid with a strong odor. When handling this chemical, it is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and safety goggles, to prevent skin and eye irritation. Additionally, proper ventilation should be in place to minimize the inhalation of vapors.
Furthermore, 2-Methyl-2-hexanol should be stored in a well-ventilated area away from sources of ignition, as it is flammable. It should be kept in a tightly sealed container to prevent spills and leaks. In case of accidental exposure, it is important to seek medical attention immediately and follow proper safety protocols for cleanup and disposal of the chemical to avoid environmental contamination.
Hazard Statements for 2-Methyl-2-hexanol:
H226 – Flammable liquid and vapor
H315 – Causes skin irritation
H319 – Causes serious eye irritation
Precautionary Statements for 2-Methyl-2-hexanol:
P210 – Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames, and other ignition sources
P264 – Wash hands thoroughly after handling
P280 – Wear protective gloves/eye protection/face protection
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Research on 2-Methyl-2-hexanol has the potential to explore its use as a solvent in various industrial applications due to its high boiling point and low toxicity. Further investigation could involve studying its effects on human health and the environment to better understand its safety profile.
Another area of research could focus on the synthesis and characterization of derivatives of 2-Methyl-2-hexanol to investigate their potential as pharmaceutical compounds or additives in consumer products. By modifying the chemical structure of 2-Methyl-2-hexanol, researchers may discover new compounds with enhanced properties or capabilities.
Additionally, studying the chemical reactivity of 2-Methyl-2-hexanol could provide insights into its potential use in organic synthesis reactions. Understanding how 2-Methyl-2-hexanol interacts with other compounds could lead to the development of new synthetic methods or the optimization of existing processes in the field of organic chemistry.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 2-Methyl-2-hexanol based upon molecular structure is 3-Methyl-2-hexanol. This compound has the same basic structure as 2-Methyl-2-hexanol, with a six-carbon chain and a methyl group attached to the second carbon. However, in 3-Methyl-2-hexanol, the methyl group is attached to the third carbon instead.
Another similar compound is 2-Ethyl-1-hexanol. This compound also contains a six-carbon chain, but with an ethyl group attached to the second carbon instead of a methyl group. The structural similarity lies in the presence of a substituent on the second carbon of the carbon chain.
3-Ethyl-2-pentanol is another compound with a similar structure to 2-Methyl-2-hexanol. In this compound, the carbon chain is reduced to five carbons, and an ethyl group is attached to the third carbon. Despite the difference in chain length, both compounds share the presence of a substituent on the second carbon atom.
