2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone, a chemical compound commonly used as a flavoring agent and fragrance ingredient, plays a significant role in everyday life. Its pleasant odor is utilized in various consumer products such as perfumes, cosmetics, and food items. Additionally, it is employed in industrial applications, including the manufacturing of insecticides and pharmaceuticals. The versatility of this compound underscores its relevance in enhancing sensory experiences and facilitating the production of essential goods.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
The compound 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone, also known as Diisobutyl ketone, has various commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used as a solvent in various industries such as paint, varnish, and coatings production. Additionally, it is utilized as a flavoring agent in the food industry due to its fruity odor.
In terms of drug and medication applications, 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone is not commonly used. However, it has shown potential as a fragrance ingredient in pharmaceutical products such as topical creams and ointments. Its mild odor and low toxicity make it a suitable candidate for use in pharmaceutical applications where a pleasant smell is desired.
Overall, 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone plays a significant role in various industries as a solvent and flavoring agent. While its applications in the pharmaceutical field are limited, its unique properties make it a valuable compound in certain drug formulations.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone is a colorless liquid with a strong, sweet smell. It is commonly used as a flavoring agent in the food industry due to its pleasant odor.
The molar mass of 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone is approximately 142.24 g/mol, with a density of 0.80 g/cm3. This places it in the same range as common food items such as sugars and oils in terms of molar mass and density.
The melting point of 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone is around -43°C, while the boiling point is approximately 140°C. These values are similar to those of various cooking oils and fats commonly found in kitchens.
2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone is practically insoluble in water, but it exhibits moderate viscosity as a liquid. This contrasts with many common food items like salt and sugar, which readily dissolve in water and have low viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone is typically produced through a multi-step synthesis process involving the condensation of 4-heptanone with formaldehyde and methylmagnesium bromide. This reaction yields the desired product, which can then be purified and isolated using standard extraction techniques.
Once 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone has been synthesized, it can be procured from chemical suppliers specializing in fine chemicals and specialty reagents. The compound is often available in liquid or solid form, typically packaged in small vials or bottles for ease of handling and storage. Transportation of 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone is typically done using standard shipping methods, following all necessary regulations for the safe handling and transport of hazardous materials.
It is crucial to handle 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone with care due to its flammable and potentially harmful properties. Proper storage in a well-ventilated, cool area away from sources of ignition is essential to ensure the compound’s stability and safety. When procuring and transporting 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone, it is advisable to consult with safety data sheets and follow appropriate safety protocols to minimize the risk of accidents or exposure.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone include the potential hazards associated with its flammable nature. This compound should be stored away from heat sources, sparks, and open flames to prevent ignition. Proper ventilation should be ensured when handling 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone to prevent the build-up of vapors which can be harmful if inhaled.
In addition to flammability, 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone may cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract upon contact or inhalation. Personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator should be worn when working with this compound to minimize the risk of exposure. Spills should be cleaned up promptly and all waste should be disposed of according to local regulations to prevent environmental contamination.
The hazard statements for 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone include “Highly flammable liquid and vapor” and “Causes skin, eye, and respiratory irritation.” These statements indicate the potential risks associated with this compound, emphasizing the need for proper handling and storage to prevent accidents and minimize exposure. It is important to be aware of these hazards and take appropriate precautions to ensure the safe use of 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone.
Precautionary statements for 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone include “Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces” and “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.” These statements highlight the importance of following safety guidelines when working with this compound to reduce the risk of accidents and protect against potential harm. It is essential to adhere to these precautions to ensure the safe handling and use of 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone could be its use as a solvent in various industrial applications. Its unique properties, such as its low boiling point and ability to dissolve a wide range of substances, make it a promising candidate for further investigation in this field.
Another avenue of research could explore the potential biological activity of 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone. Studies could investigate its potential as an antimicrobial agent, its effect on cellular processes, or its interactions with proteins. Understanding these aspects could lead to the development of new pharmacological agents or biotechnological applications.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone is 2,6-Dimethyl-3-heptanone. This compound differs from the original in the position of the carbonyl group, which is located on the third carbon instead of the fourth. This subtle change results in a different arrangement of atoms around the carbonyl group, leading to unique chemical properties.
Another compound with a similar structure to 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone is 2,6-Dimethyl-5-heptanone. In this compound, the carbonyl group is situated on the fifth carbon, altering the overall shape of the molecule. Despite this difference, the presence of two methyl groups on the second and sixth carbons remains consistent with the original compound, resulting in comparable physical and chemical properties.
A further compound akin to 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone is 3,7-Dimethyl-4-octanone. This compound shares a similar carbon backbone with the original, but with an additional carbon atom on the chain. The carbonyl group in 3,7-Dimethyl-4-octanone is located on the fourth carbon, similar to its position in 2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanone. This structural similarity results in comparable reactivity and solubility characteristics between the two compounds.
