2,3-Dimethylhexane is a chemical compound commonly used in industry for its properties as a solvent and as an ingredient in fragrances and other consumer products. In everyday life, consumers may come across this compound in household cleaners, air fresheners, and personal care products. It is also utilized in the manufacturing of plastics, rubber, and paint. The versatility of 2,3-Dimethylhexane makes it a significant component in various products that play a role in modern society.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
2,3-Dimethylhexane, a branched-chain alkane, finds commercial and industrial applications primarily as a solvent and as a fuel additive. Due to its low toxicity and high solvency power, it is commonly used in paints, coatings, adhesives, and varnishes. In the manufacturing industry, it is also utilized as a cleaning agent and in the extraction of oils and waxes.
In terms of drug and medication applications, 2,3-Dimethylhexane is not commonly used due to its relatively simple chemical structure and lack of specific pharmacological properties. Its limited toxicity makes it unsuitable for use in pharmaceutical formulations where precise targeting of biological pathways is required. Thus, its role in the medical field is minimal compared to its industrial applications.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
2,3-Dimethylhexane is a colorless liquid with a faint odor. It is commonly used as a solvent and in the production of pharmaceuticals and other chemicals.
The molar mass of 2,3-Dimethylhexane is approximately 114.22 g/mol, and its density is around 0.73 g/cm3. Compared to common food items such as sucrose (molar mass around 342.3 g/mol) and olive oil (density around 0.92 g/cm3), 2,3-Dimethylhexane has a lower molar mass and density.
The melting point of 2,3-Dimethylhexane is -110 degrees Celsius, while the boiling point is around 100 degrees Celsius. These values are much lower than those of common food items like sugar (melting point around 186 degrees Celsius) and water (boiling point at 100 degrees Celsius).
2,3-Dimethylhexane is insoluble in water due to its non-polar nature, and it has a low viscosity. Compared to common food items like salt (high solubility in water) and honey (high viscosity), 2,3-Dimethylhexane shows opposite properties in terms of solubility and viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
2,3-Dimethylhexane is typically produced through the alkylation of 2-methylpentane with propylene over a catalyst such as zeolite. This process results in the formation of 2,3-Dimethylhexane as a byproduct.
This compound can be procured through chemical suppliers who specialize in providing high-quality organic compounds. Once procured, 2,3-Dimethylhexane can be transported in sealed containers to prevent leakage or contamination during transit.
Transportation of 2,3-Dimethylhexane may involve compliance with regulations set forth by relevant authorities to ensure safe handling and transportation. It is important to follow proper labeling and documentation procedures to avoid any mishaps during transportation.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 2,3-Dimethylhexane include its flammability and potential health hazards. It is important to handle this chemical with caution in order to prevent fires or explosions. Furthermore, exposure to 2,3-Dimethylhexane can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system, so appropriate personal protective equipment should be worn when working with this substance.
Hazard statements for 2,3-Dimethylhexane include “Highly flammable liquid and vapor,” “Causes skin irritation,” and “May cause drowsiness or dizziness.” These statements convey the potential dangers associated with this chemical, emphasizing the importance of proper handling and storage to prevent accidents and protect individuals from harm.
Precautionary statements for 2,3-Dimethylhexane include “Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces,” “Wear protective gloves/eye protection/face protection,” and “IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water.” These statements provide specific guidance on how to safely handle and use 2,3-Dimethylhexane in order to minimize risks and protect individuals from exposure to its hazards. It is important to carefully follow these precautionary measures to ensure the safe use of this chemical.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 2,3-Dimethylhexane is its use as a fuel additive to improve the combustion characteristics of gasoline. Studies could investigate the impact of 2,3-Dimethylhexane on engine performance, emissions, and fuel economy.
Another area of research could focus on the synthesis and properties of 2,3-Dimethylhexane derivatives for pharmaceutical applications. By modifying the chemical structure of 2,3-Dimethylhexane, researchers could explore its potential as a drug candidate for various diseases or as a precursor for other valuable compounds.
Furthermore, investigations into the environmental fate and toxicological effects of 2,3-Dimethylhexane could provide valuable insights into its potential risks and benefits. Studies could evaluate its bioaccumulation potential, degradation pathways, and impact on ecosystems to better understand its overall environmental impact.
🧪 Related Compounds
One comparable compound to 2,3-Dimethylhexane is 2,2-Dimethylhexane. This compound shares a similar molecular structure with 2,3-Dimethylhexane in that it contains a hexane backbone with two methyl groups attached to the second carbon atom. The only difference between the two compounds is the positioning of the methyl groups on the carbon chain.
Another related compound to 2,3-Dimethylhexane is 3,3-Dimethylhexane. Like the previous compound, 3,3-Dimethylhexane also features a hexane backbone with two methyl groups attached to the third carbon atom. The similarity in molecular structure between 2,3-Dimethylhexane and 3,3-Dimethylhexane lies in the positioning of the methyl groups on the carbon chain.
Additionally, 2,4-Dimethylhexane is another compound that shares similarities with 2,3-Dimethylhexane. Both compounds contain a hexane backbone with two methyl groups attached to different carbon atoms. In this case, the methyl groups in 2,4-Dimethylhexane are positioned on the second and fourth carbon atoms of the hexane chain, maintaining the structural similarity to 2,3-Dimethylhexane.