2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone, also known as benzophenone-4, is a chemical compound commonly found in sunscreens, hair care products, and various cosmetics. It functions as a UV filter, helping to protect the skin and hair from the harmful effects of UVA and UVB radiation. By absorbing and dissipating UV rays, benzophenone-4 helps to prevent sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. In everyday life, this compound plays a crucial role in safeguarding our health and well-being by enabling us to enjoy outdoor activities without risking sun damage.
Table of Contents:
Commercial Applications
Chemical & Physical Properties
Production & Procurement
Safety Considerations
Potential Research Directions
Related Compounds
Commercial Applications
2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone, commonly known as oxybenzone, is used in various commercial and industrial applications. One of the primary uses of oxybenzone is as a chemical absorber in sunscreens and other cosmetic products to protect the skin from UV radiation. Additionally, it is utilized in the manufacturing of plastics, adhesives, and coatings due to its UV-absorbing properties.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, 2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone is sometimes employed as a photoinitiator in the production of pharmaceuticals and medical devices. Its ability to initiate polymerization under UV light makes it a valuable component in drug delivery systems and medical implants. Furthermore, oxybenzone is studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could have therapeutic implications in the field of medicine.
Chemical & Physical Properties
2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone is a white crystalline solid with no distinct odor. It appears as fine powder particles, and has a characteristic slightly bitter taste.
The molar mass of 2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone is 274.30 g/mol, with a density of approximately 1.34 g/cm³. This places it in the range of common food items like sugar (molar mass: 342.3 g/mol, density: 1.59 g/cm³) and salt (molar mass: 58.44 g/mol, density: 2.16 g/cm³).
2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone has a melting point of around 175-180°C and a boiling point of approximately 360-365°C. This compares to common food items like butter (melting point: 32-35°C, boiling point: 150-200°C) and water (melting point: 0°C, boiling point: 100°C).
This compound is sparingly soluble in water, but dissolves readily in organic solvents. It has a low viscosity, indicating that it flows easily. Compared to common food items like sugar (highly soluble in water, low viscosity) and honey (highly soluble in water, high viscosity), 2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone exhibits different solubility and viscosity properties.
Production & Procurement
2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone, also known as benzophenone-6, is produced through a multistep chemical synthesis process. The key starting materials for this synthesis include resorcinol, vanillin, and acetic anhydride. These compounds undergo various reactions to form the final product, which is then purified and isolated.
Once produced, 2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone can be procured from chemical suppliers who specialize in fine chemicals and intermediates. This compound is typically available in powder form or as a crystalline solid. It can be purchased in small quantities for research purposes or in bulk for industrial use.
2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone is commonly transported in sealed containers to prevent exposure to moisture and air. It is important to handle this compound with care, as it is sensitive to light and heat. Proper labeling and handling instructions should be followed to ensure safe transportation and storage of this chemical.
Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone, also known as benzophenone-4, should be taken seriously due to its potential hazards. This chemical compound is classified as harmful if swallowed and may cause skin irritation. It is also considered harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects, so proper disposal is crucial to prevent environmental damage.
Hazard statements for 2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone include “Causes skin irritation” and “Harmful if swallowed.” These warnings indicate that direct contact with the substance can result in skin irritation and ingestion may lead to harmful effects on health. It is important to handle this compound with caution and ensure proper safety measures are in place to prevent any accidents or injuries.
Precautionary statements for 2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone include “Wash hands thoroughly after handling” and “Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product.” These precautions are crucial to prevent accidental exposure and minimize the risk of adverse effects. Personal protective equipment such as gloves and goggles should be worn when handling this compound, and any spills or leaks should be cleaned up promptly to avoid contamination.
Potential Research Directions
Potential research directions for 2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone include investigating its photoprotective properties due to its UV-absorbing capabilities.
Further studies could explore the potential for 2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone as a promising ingredient in sunscreen formulations, potentially offering enhanced protection against harmful UV radiation.
Additionally, research may focus on the development of novel synthesis methods for 2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone to optimize its production efficiency and purity for a wider range of applications.
Related Compounds
One similar compound to 2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone is 2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethylbenzophenone. This compound has a similar molecular structure to the original compound, but with methyl groups in place of the methoxy groups. This substitution can alter the compound’s physical and chemical properties.
Another similar compound to 2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone is 2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzil. This compound contains two carbonyl groups instead of the benzophenone structure, but still maintains the same hydroxyl and methoxy groups. This structural similarity may lead to similar reactivity and properties between the two compounds.
A third compound similar to 2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzophenone is 2,2′-Dihydroxy-4,4′-dimethoxybenzilic acid. This compound is a derivative of benzil, containing a carboxylic acid group instead of the carbonyl groups found in benzophenone. However, it retains the hydroxyl and methoxy groups seen in the original compound, allowing for potential similarities in behavior and applications.
