2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran is a chemical compound with potential applications in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, perfumery, and food flavoring. This compound is used in the synthesis of drugs, fragrances, and flavor additives, making it a valuable component in everyday products. Its versatile nature allows for its incorporation in a wide range of consumer goods, impacting our everyday lives through the diverse products that benefit from its properties.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
One commercial application of 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran is its use as a flavoring agent in the food industry. Due to its pleasant fruity aroma, this compound is commonly used to enhance the flavor of various food products, including beverages, baked goods, and confectionery items.
In the industrial sector, 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran is utilized as a solvent in the production of perfumes and fragrances. Its low toxicity and volatile nature make it an ideal solvent for dissolving and blending various aromatic compounds to create unique and appealing scents for personal care and household products.
In terms of drug and medication applications, 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran has shown potential as an anti-inflammatory agent. Studies have suggested that this compound may help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, making it a promising candidate for the development of new pharmaceuticals targeting inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and skin disorders.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran appears as a clear liquid with a strong, sweet odor. This compound is commonly used as a flavoring agent due to its pleasant smell.
The molar mass of 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran is 100.14 g/mol, and its density is 0.897 g/cm3. Compared to common food items, such as sugar with a molar mass of 342.3 g/mol and a density of 1.59 g/cm3, 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran has a lower molar mass and density.
The melting point of 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran is -33 °C, and its boiling point is 80 °C. Compared to common food items like butter with a melting point of 30-35 °C and a boiling point of 110 °C, 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran has a lower melting point and boiling point.
2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran is sparingly soluble in water and has a low viscosity. Compared to common food items like salt which is highly soluble in water and has a high viscosity when dissolved, 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran has limited solubility in water and low viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran, a compound commonly used in the pharmaceutical and agricultural industries, is typically produced through the hydrogenation of 2,3-dihydrofuran using a suitable catalyst. This reaction results in the addition of two hydrogen atoms to the double bond of the furan ring, creating the desired product.
In terms of procurement and transport, 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran can be obtained from chemical suppliers who specialize in providing specialty chemicals to various industries. The compound is usually available in liquid form and is typically transported in sealed containers to prevent leakage or contamination during transit.
When procuring 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran, it is essential to ensure that the compound is handled and stored according to strict safety guidelines to prevent accidental exposure or environmental damage. Proper labeling and documentation should accompany the shipment to guarantee compliance with regulatory requirements and safe handling practices.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran should be taken seriously due to its potential hazards. This compound is flammable and may ignite if exposed to heat or flames. It is important to store 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran in a cool, dry place away from sources of ignition. Additionally, proper ventilation should be maintained when handling this chemical to prevent exposure to potentially harmful vapors.
Hazard statements for 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran include “Highly flammable liquid and vapor,” “Causes skin irritation,” and “May cause respiratory irritation.” These statements highlight the potential dangers associated with this compound and emphasize the importance of following proper safety protocols when working with 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran. It is crucial to exercise caution and wear appropriate protective equipment to minimize risks of exposure and harm.
Precautionary statements for 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran recommend storing the chemical in a well-ventilated area, away from heat, sparks, open flames, and other sources of ignition. It is advisable to keep this compound in a tightly closed container to prevent spills and leaks. When handling 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran, wear protective clothing, gloves, and eye protection to reduce the risk of skin and eye irritation. Additionally, it is important to wash hands thoroughly after handling this chemical to avoid accidental ingestion or further exposure.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Research on 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran may explore its potential as a building block in organic synthesis due to its unique structure and reactivity. Investigations into the reaction mechanisms and catalytic processes involving this compound could provide insights for the development of new methods in chemical synthesis.
Furthermore, the biological activities of 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran could be of interest in medicinal chemistry research. Studies on its pharmacological properties and potential therapeutic applications may lead to the discovery of new drug candidates with improved efficacy and reduced side effects.
Additionally, the environmental implications of 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran could be investigated in terms of its toxicity and biodegradability. Understanding its behavior in different environmental matrices could provide valuable information for assessing its impact on ecosystems and human health.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran is 2,3-Dihydro-5-ethylfuran. This compound also contains a furan ring with a methyl group and an ethyl group attached to carbons 5 and 2, respectively. The only difference between 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran and 2,3-Dihydro-5-ethylfuran is the substitution of a methyl group for an ethyl group.
Another compound with a similar structure to 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran is 2,3-Dihydro-5-propylfuran. This compound contains a furan ring with a methyl group and a propyl group attached to carbons 5 and 2, respectively. Like the previous example, the only difference between 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran and 2,3-Dihydro-5-propylfuran is the substitution of a methyl group for a propyl group.
A further similar compound is 2,3-Dihydro-5-isopropylfuran. This compound contains a furan ring with a methyl group and an isopropyl group attached to carbons 5 and 2, respectively. The difference between 2,3-Dihydro-5-methylfuran and 2,3-Dihydro-5-isopropylfuran lies in the substitution of a methyl group for an isopropyl group.
