2,2-Bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethanol, also known as triclosan, is a chemical compound commonly used as an antibacterial agent in personal care products such as soaps, toothpaste, and cosmetics. Its relevance to everyday life lies in its widespread use as a germ-killing agent that helps prevent the spread of infections and illnesses. However, there is growing concern over its potential contribution to antibiotic resistance and its impact on the environment. As a result, triclosan has been banned or restricted in several countries and its use in consumer products is increasingly scrutinized by regulatory authorities and consumers alike.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
2,2-Bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethanol, commonly known as triclosan, is utilized in various commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used as an antibacterial agent in personal care products such as soaps, hand sanitizers, and toothpaste. Triclosan is also used in textiles, plastics, and household products to inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and mold.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, 2,2-Bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethanol has been used as an antimicrobial agent in oral care products and surgical scrubs. Triclosan has also been incorporated into medical devices, such as catheters and wound dressings, to prevent infections. However, due to concerns about antibiotic resistance and potential health risks, the use of triclosan in these applications has been restricted in some countries.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
2,2-Bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethanol is a white crystalline solid with no characteristic odor. Its chemical structure consists of two phenyl rings linked to an ethanol group. This compound is used as a preservative and antimicrobial agent in various products.
The molar mass of 2,2-Bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethanol is 315.15 g/mol, and its density is approximately 1.29 g/cm³. Compared to common food items like sugar (molar mass: 342.30 g/mol, density: 1.59 g/cm³) and salt (molar mass: 58.44 g/mol, density: 2.17 g/cm³), this chemical compound has a lower molar mass and density.
The melting point of 2,2-Bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethanol is around 165-170°C, while its boiling point is approximately 385-390°C. In comparison, common food items like butter (melting point: 32-35°C, boiling point: 150-200°C) and chocolate (melting point: 30-32°C, boiling point: 150-160°C) have lower melting and boiling points.
2,2-Bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethanol has limited solubility in water, but it is more soluble in organic solvents. Its viscosity is relatively low, making it easy to handle and process. In contrast, common food items like sugar and salt are highly soluble in water and have varying viscosity levels.
🏭 Production & Procurement
2,2-Bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethanol, also known as triclosan, is produced through a multi-step chemical synthesis process. The first step involves the reaction of 4-chlorophenylmagnesium bromide with ethylene oxide to form 2,2-bis(4-chlorophenyl) ethanol.
Once 2,2-Bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethanol is produced, it can be procured from chemical suppliers or manufacturers. The compound is typically available in the form of a white powder or crystalline solid.
2,2-Bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethanol can be transported in various ways, including bulk shipments in drums or containers. The compound is considered stable under normal conditions, but precautions should be taken to prevent exposure to moisture or extreme temperatures during transport.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 2,2-Bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethanol, also known as triclosan, include its potential for skin irritation and sensitization. It is important to handle this substance with care, using appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves and goggles to prevent contact with the skin or eyes. Additionally, triclosan should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and sources of heat to prevent degradation and potential hazards.
Hazard statements for 2,2-Bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethanol include its classification as harmful if swallowed, causing skin irritation, causing serious eye irritation and being harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects. It is important to handle this substance with caution and ensure proper containment and disposal to prevent harm to both human health and the environment. Proper labeling and communication of these potential hazards are essential to ensure safe handling of triclosan.
Precautionary statements for 2,2-Bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethanol include recommendations to avoid release to the environment, wear protective gloves and eye protection, and wash hands thoroughly after handling. It is important to keep triclosan away from heat, sparks, open flames and other sources of ignition to prevent potential fire hazards. In case of exposure, seek medical advice immediately and provide the safety data sheet for reference. Proper ventilation and containment measures should be in place to minimize the risk of exposure to this substance.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Research on 2,2-Bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethanol, a compound commonly known as triclosan, has primarily focused on its antimicrobial properties and potential implications for human health and the environment.
Studies have shown that triclosan has the ability to disrupt bacterial cell membranes, leading to its widespread use in personal care products like soaps and toothpaste. Future research could explore the development of more targeted antimicrobial agents based on the structure of triclosan.
Additionally, there is growing concern about the potential negative impacts of triclosan on aquatic ecosystems and its contribution to antibiotic resistance. Investigating the mechanisms of triclosan’s environmental toxicity and its potential role in promoting antibiotic resistance could inform policies aimed at reducing its widespread use.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 2,2-Bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethanol based on molecular structure is 2,2-Bis(4-bromophenyl)ethanol. This compound contains two 4-bromophenyl groups attached to a central ethyl alcohol moiety. The presence of the bromine substituents instead of chlorine results in slightly different chemical properties compared to 2,2-Bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethanol.
Another compound with a similar molecular structure is 2,2-Bis(4-fluorophenyl)ethanol. In this compound, two 4-fluorophenyl groups are attached to the central ethyl alcohol moiety. The fluorine substituents have different properties compared to chlorine, which can result in different reactivity and biological effects.
2,2-Bis(4-iodophenyl)ethanol is yet another compound similar in structure to 2,2-Bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethanol. This compound contains two 4-iodophenyl groups attached to the central ethyl alcohol moiety. The iodine substituents can impart unique properties to the compound, leading to different chemical and biological activities compared to the chlorine analog.
