(2Z,6E)-Farnesol is a naturally occurring alcohol that is commonly found in plants and essential oils. It is a key compound used in various industries, particularly in cosmetics, perfumery, and pharmaceuticals. In everyday life, (2Z,6E)-Farnesol is utilized in products such as soaps, lotions, and fragrances for its pleasant scent and potential antibacterial properties. Its relevance lies in its ability to enhance the sensory experience of consumers through its aromatic qualities, contributing to the everyday use and enjoyment of various personal care and household products.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
One of the main commercial and industrial applications of (2Z,6E)-Farnesol is its use in the production of flavor and fragrance compounds. It is frequently used as a natural aroma compound in various products such as perfumes, soaps, and cosmetics.
In the industrial sector, (2Z,6E)-Farnesol is utilized as a precursor in the production of various chemicals and polymers. Its unique chemical properties make it a valuable ingredient in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and surfactants.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, (2Z,6E)-Farnesol has shown promise as an antimicrobial agent due to its ability to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi. This has led to research into its potential use in the development of new antibiotics and antifungal medications.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
(2Z,6E)-Farnesol is a colorless liquid with a floral and fruity odor. Its appearance is described as clear and has a pleasant fragrance reminiscent of a mix of roses and jasmine.
The molar mass of (2Z,6E)-Farnesol is approximately 222.37 g/mol, and its density is approximately 0.893 g/cm3. This places it in the lower range of molar mass and density when compared to common food items, such as sugar and salt, which have higher molar masses and densities.
The melting point of (2Z,6E)-Farnesol is around 60-62°C, and its boiling point is approximately 293°C. These values are higher compared to common food items like butter and chocolate, which have lower melting and boiling points.
(2Z,6E)-Farnesol is sparingly soluble in water and exhibits low viscosity. This sets it apart from common food items like sugar and salt, which are highly soluble in water and have higher viscosities.
🏭 Production & Procurement
(2Z,6E)-Farnesol is typically produced through a chemical synthesis process. This involves the conversion of suitable starting materials into the desired compound through a series of reactions. The process is carefully controlled to ensure high purity and yield of (2Z,6E)-Farnesol.
To procure (2Z,6E)-Farnesol, one can either purchase it directly from chemical suppliers or contract manufacturers. These suppliers often provide the compound in bulk quantities, packaged and labeled according to industry standards. Depending on the volume needed, (2Z,6E)-Farnesol can be transported via various modes such as road, rail, sea, or air freight.
When transporting (2Z,6E)-Farnesol, it is essential to follow safety regulations and guidelines to prevent any potential hazards. The compound should be packaged in suitable containers that are compatible with the nature of the chemical. Proper labeling and documentation are also crucial to ensure smooth transportation and compliance with regulations.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for (2Z,6E)-Farnesol include its potential to cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system upon contact or inhalation. It is essential to wear appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and a face mask when handling this compound. In addition, (2Z,6E)-Farnesol should be stored in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources and incompatible materials to prevent accidents or chemical reactions.
The hazard statements for (2Z,6E)-Farnesol include “Causes skin irritation,” “Causes serious eye irritation,” and “May cause respiratory irritation.” These statements indicate the potential risks associated with exposure to this compound. It is crucial to follow proper safety protocols, including wearing protective equipment and working in a well-ventilated area, to minimize the likelihood of experiencing these hazards.
Precautionary statements for (2Z,6E)-Farnesol include “Wear protective gloves/eye protection/face protection,” “IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes,” and “Store in a well-ventilated place.” These statements emphasize the importance of taking necessary precautions to ensure safe handling and storage of the compound. By following these guidelines, individuals can reduce the risk of harm associated with (2Z,6E)-Farnesol exposure.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for (2Z,6E)-Farnesol is its potential use as an anti-bacterial agent. Studies have shown that (2Z,6E)-Farnesol exhibits antibacterial activity against a wide range of microorganisms, making it a promising candidate for the development of new antibacterial agents.
Another area of research interest is the role of (2Z,6E)-Farnesol in cell signaling pathways. It has been found that (2Z,6E)-Farnesol can modulate various signaling pathways within cells, affecting processes such as cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis. Further studies could help elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects.
Furthermore, (2Z,6E)-Farnesol has shown potential as a quorum sensing inhibitor in certain bacterial species. Quorum sensing is a communication system used by bacteria to regulate gene expression in response to population density. Research on (2Z,6E)-Farnesol’s ability to disrupt quorum sensing could provide insights into new strategies for combating bacterial infections.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to (2Z,6E)-Farnesol based upon molecular structure is (2E,6E)-Farnesol. This compound has the same backbone structure as (2Z,6E)-Farnesol, but differs in the geometry of the double bonds. The cis configuration of the double bonds in the (2E,6E)-Farnesol compound can impact its biological activity and functions differently in biological systems.
Another similar compound is (2Z,6Z)-Farnesol. Like (2Z,6E)-Farnesol, this compound also contains a farnesyl backbone but with a different orientation of the double bonds. The all-trans configuration of the double bonds in (2Z,6Z)-Farnesol can lead to distinct chemical properties and potential biological activities compared to (2Z,6E)-Farnesol.
One more compound with a similar structure is (2E,6Z)-Farnesol. This compound shares the farnesol backbone with (2Z,6E)-Farnesol, but differs in the configuration of the double bonds. The combination of trans and cis double bonds in (2E,6Z)-Farnesol may result in unique interactions with biological targets and different biological effects compared to (2Z,6E)-Farnesol.
