2-Methylanthracene is a chemical compound that may not be immediately recognizable in everyday life. However, its relevance lies in its use as a starting material for the synthesis of various specialty chemicals, such as dyes, pharmaceuticals, and organic light-emitting diodes. Additionally, 2-Methylanthracene plays a role in research and development in the fields of chemistry and material science. While not a household name, its versatility and importance in these industries make it a notable compound in modern society.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
2-Methylanthracene, a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, has found various commercial and industrial applications. One of its main uses is as a fluorescent dye in the textile industry to create vibrant colors. It is also utilized as a chemical intermediate in the production of pharmaceuticals, plastics, and coatings.
In terms of drug and medication applications, 2-Methylanthracene has been studied for its potential anticancer properties. Research has shown that it may have the ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells, making it a potential candidate for the development of novel cancer treatments. However, further research is needed to fully understand its mechanism of action and potential side effects.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
2-Methylanthracene is a white to pale yellow solid with a mild aromatic odor. It is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, consisting of three fused benzene rings with a methyl group attached at the 2-position.
The molar mass of 2-Methylanthracene is approximately 202.26 g/mol, and it has a density of about 1.21 g/cm^3. Compared to common food items like water (molar mass of 18 g/mol, density of 1 g/cm^3) and sugar (molar mass of 342.3 g/mol, density of 1.59 g/cm^3), 2-Methylanthracene has a higher molar mass and density.
2-Methylanthracene has a melting point of around 98-100°C and a boiling point of about 372-374°C. In comparison, common food items like butter (melting point of 32-35°C) and water (boiling point of 100°C) have lower melting and boiling points than 2-Methylanthracene.
2-Methylanthracene is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents like benzene and ethanol. It has a relatively low viscosity compared to common food items like honey and molasses.
🏭 Production & Procurement
2-Methylanthracene is typically produced through a Friedel-Crafts alkylation reaction involving anthracene and methanol in the presence of a Lewis acid catalyst such as aluminum chloride. This reaction results in the substitution of a methyl group onto the anthracene backbone, yielding 2-Methylanthracene as the desired product. The reaction conditions must be carefully controlled to ensure a high yield of 2-Methylanthracene and minimize the formation of any unwanted byproducts.
The procurement of 2-Methylanthracene can be achieved through several methods. It may be purchased from chemical suppliers that specialize in the production and distribution of organic chemicals. Alternatively, 2-Methylanthracene can be synthesized in a laboratory setting using the aforementioned Friedel-Crafts alkylation reaction. Once obtained, the compound can be transported in sealed containers to prevent contamination or degradation during transit. Care should be taken to follow proper safety protocols when handling and transporting 2-Methylanthracene due to its flammable nature and potential health hazards.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 2-Methylanthracene include its potential to cause skin irritation and eye irritation upon contact. It is important to handle this chemical with caution by wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and safety glasses. Additionally, proper ventilation should be ensured when working with 2-Methylanthracene to prevent inhalation of vapors.
Hazard statements for 2-Methylanthracene include its classification as a skin irritant and eye irritant. This chemical may also cause respiratory irritation if inhaled. It is important to avoid skin contact, eye contact, and inhalation of vapors when working with 2-Methylanthracene. Proper precautions should be taken to minimize exposure and prevent adverse health effects.
Precautionary statements for 2-Methylanthracene include recommendations to wear protective gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection when handling this chemical. It is important to work in a well-ventilated area and avoid breathing vapors. In case of skin contact, it is advised to wash the affected area with soap and water. In case of eye contact, it is recommended to flush the eyes with water for several minutes while removing contact lenses, if applicable.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 2-Methylanthracene is its application in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). Due to its attractive photophysical properties, such as high photoluminescence quantum yield and good thermal stability, 2-Methylanthracene holds potential for use in the development of efficient OLEDs for various display and lighting applications.
Another potential research direction for 2-Methylanthracene is its use as a building block in the synthesis of functional organic materials. By designing and synthesizing new derivatives of 2-Methylanthracene with specific properties, researchers can explore its potential applications in areas such as organic semiconductors, organic photovoltaics, and organic sensors. This research direction could lead to the discovery of novel materials with improved performance and functionality.
🧪 Related Compounds
One compound similar in structure to 2-Methylanthracene is Anthracene, which is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon with three fused benzene rings. Anthracene differs from 2-Methylanthracene by the absence of a methyl group attached to the central benzene ring.
Another compound with a molecular structure similar to 2-Methylanthracene is 9-Methylanthracene, which differs by the position of the methyl group on the anthracene framework. In 9-Methylanthracene, the methyl group is located at the 9th position, as opposed to the 2nd position in 2-Methylanthracene.
Furthermore, Dibenzo[b,def]chrysene is another compound that shares a similar molecular structure with 2-Methylanthracene. Dibenzo[b,def]chrysene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon consisting of five fused benzene rings, differing from 2-Methylanthracene in terms of the number and arrangement of benzene rings.
