2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol is a chemical compound commonly found in personal care and cosmetic products as a preservative and antimicrobial agent. It plays a critical role in preventing the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi in various consumer goods, including shampoos, lotions, and skincare products. In essence, 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol helps to maintain the safety and quality of these everyday items, ensuring they remain effective and free from contamination for consumers.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol, also known as bronopol, is commonly used as a preservative in a variety of commercial and industrial applications. It is employed in personal care products such as shampoos, conditioners, and lotions to prevent bacterial and fungal growth. Additionally, bronopol is utilized in water-based products like paints, adhesives, and metalworking fluids to inhibit the growth of microorganisms and extend the shelf life of these materials.
In the pharmaceutical industry, 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol has been investigated for its potential as an antimicrobial agent in various drug formulations and medical applications. Studies have shown that bronopol exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against a variety of bacteria, fungi, and yeasts. This has led to its use in ophthalmic solutions, wound care products, and other medications where microbial contamination is a concern.
Overall, 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol plays a critical role in preserving the quality and safety of both commercial products and pharmaceutical formulations. Its unique antimicrobial properties make it a valuable ingredient for preventing microbial growth and ensuring the longevity of various materials and medications.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol is a white crystalline solid with a faint odor. The compound is typically odorless at room temperature.
The molar mass of 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol is approximately 149.11 g/mol, and it has a density of about 1.32 g/cm3. This molecular weight and density are higher than most common food items, such as sugars and salts.
2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol has a melting point of 120-121°C and a boiling point of 259-261°C. These values are significantly higher than those of most common food items, which generally melt and boil at much lower temperatures.
2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol is soluble in water and has a relatively high viscosity. This compound’s solubility and viscosity are different from those of common food items, which typically have lower solubility in water and viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol, commonly known as Triclosan, is typically produced through a multi-step chemical synthesis process. The first step involves the condensation of 2-methyl-3-nitro-1-propanol with formaldehyde to form a β-nitro alkyl ketone intermediate. Subsequent reduction and acetylation steps lead to the final product.
Once 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol is produced, it can be procured in various forms such as powders, pellets, or solutions. It is commonly transported in sealed containers to prevent degradation or contamination. Specialized shipping methods may be required due to its potential reactivity with certain materials.
When procuring 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol, it is essential to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements governing its transportation and handling. Proper documentation and labeling are necessary to facilitate smooth procurement and transportation processes. Careful consideration must also be given to the storage conditions to maintain the integrity and stability of the compound.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety Considerations for 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol:
2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol, commonly known as Triclosan, is a chemical compound that is commonly used in personal care products as an antimicrobial agent. However, it is important to note that Triclosan has been linked to several safety concerns, particularly in terms of its potential impact on human health and the environment.
Studies have shown that Triclosan may disrupt hormone function in animals, leading to potential adverse health effects. Additionally, Triclosan has been found to accumulate in the environment, where it can have harmful effects on aquatic organisms. As a result, the safety of Triclosan has been called into question, leading to restrictions on its use in some countries.
It is important for individuals and industries that use Triclosan to be aware of these safety considerations and take appropriate precautions to minimize the potential risks associated with its use. This may include using alternative antimicrobial agents or implementing proper safety measures to mitigate the potential hazards posed by Triclosan.
Hazard Statements for 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol:
Hazard statements for 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol include:
– Causes serious eye irritation
– May cause respiratory irritation
– Harmful if swallowed
– May cause skin irritation
These hazard statements highlight the potential dangers associated with exposure to 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol and underscore the importance of taking appropriate precautions to minimize the risks of harm.
Precautionary Statements for 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol:
Precautionary statements for 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol include:
– Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray
– Wash hands thoroughly after handling
– Wear protective gloves/eye protection/face protection
– Keep container tightly closed
These precautionary statements serve as guidelines for safe handling and use of 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol, helping to protect individuals from potential harm and ensure the safe management of the chemical compound.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol involves examining its environmental impact. Studies could focus on its persistence, bioaccumulation, and toxicity in various ecosystems to better understand its potential risks.
Another promising avenue of research is investigating the potential use of 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol in pharmaceutical applications. This compound has shown antimicrobial properties, which could be further explored for potential applications in developing new antibiotics or antimicrobial agents.
Furthermore, research could be conducted to explore the synthesis and production processes of 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol. Understanding the optimal conditions for its production could lead to more efficient and cost-effective methods, which could have implications for various industries that utilize this compound.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol based on its molecular structure is 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol acetate. This compound has an acetate functional group attached to the 1,3-propanediol backbone, resulting in slightly different chemical properties compared to the parent compound. The presence of the acetate group can affect solubility, reactivity, and stability of the compound in various chemical reactions.
Another similar compound to 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol is 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol ether. In this compound, an ether functional group is substituted for one of the hydroxyl groups of the 1,3-propanediol backbone. The presence of the ether group can influence the compound’s volatility, polarity, and interactions with other molecules in chemical reactions. This variation in structure can lead to differences in physical and chemical properties compared to the parent compound.
A third similar compound to 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol is 2-Methyl-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol ester. In this compound, an ester functional group is attached to the 1,3-propanediol backbone, altering the compound’s chemical behavior and reactivity. The presence of the ester group can affect the compound’s stability, solubility, and interactions with other molecules in chemical reactions. This structural modification can lead to distinct properties and potential applications of the compound compared to the parent compound.
