3,6-Dichlorocatechol is a chemical compound that has relevance in various aspects of everyday life. It is commonly used in the production of pesticides, specifically as an intermediate in the synthesis of herbicides. Additionally, it is employed in environmental science research due to its ability to degrade toxic compounds in soil and water. Furthermore, 3,6-Dichlorocatechol has potential applications in the pharmaceutical industry for the development of new drugs and medications. Overall, the compound plays a crucial role in several industries and scientific fields, impacting our daily lives in various ways.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
In commercial and industrial settings, 3,6-Dichlorocatechol is utilized as a precursor in the production of various chemicals. It serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of herbicides, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals. The compound’s high reactivity and versatility make it a valuable component in the manufacturing of these products.
Additionally, 3,6-Dichlorocatechol is employed in the field of environmental science for its ability to degrade pollutants. It is used in bioremediation processes to break down toxic substances in soil and water. The compound’s biodegradable nature makes it a sustainable solution for environmental cleanup efforts.
In terms of drug and medication applications, 3,6-Dichlorocatechol is being explored for its potential therapeutic properties. Research suggests that it may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a promising candidate for the development of new pharmaceuticals. As studies continue to uncover its medical uses, the compound may play a crucial role in future drug development.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
3,6-Dichlorocatechol is a white crystalline solid that has a slight odor. It is sparingly soluble in water and has a low vapor pressure, contributing to its stability as a solid compound. The compound is often used in the synthesis of various organic compounds due to its reactivity with other chemicals.
The molar mass of 3,6-Dichlorocatechol is approximately 178.01 g/mol, with a density of about 1.55 g/cm3. Compared to common food items such as sugar (molar mass of 342.3 g/mol) and olive oil (density of 0.92 g/cm3), 3,6-Dichlorocatechol has a lower molar mass and higher density.
The melting point of 3,6-Dichlorocatechol is around 207°C, and its boiling point is approximately 438°C. These values are significantly higher than those of common food items like butter (melting point around 32°C) and water (boiling point at 100°C), reflecting the compound’s stability at high temperatures.
3,6-Dichlorocatechol is soluble in water, displaying moderate solubility levels in this solvent. It has a low viscosity, making it easy to handle in laboratory settings. Compared to common food items like salt (high solubility in water) and honey (high viscosity), 3,6-Dichlorocatechol falls in between in terms of solubility and viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
3,6-Dichlorocatechol is typically produced through chemical synthesis in a laboratory setting. This process involves the chlorination of catechol, which yields the desired product as a white crystalline solid. The reaction is carefully controlled to ensure the formation of 3,6-Dichlorocatechol with high purity.
In order to procure 3,6-Dichlorocatechol, one must typically turn to specialized chemical suppliers or manufacturers. These entities produce the compound on a larger scale and may offer it for sale to research institutions, industrial companies, or academic laboratories. Transportation of 3,6-Dichlorocatechol usually involves adherence to strict regulations regarding the handling and shipment of hazardous materials.
The procurement of 3,6-Dichlorocatechol may also involve considerations of safety and proper storage. Due to its potential toxicity and hazardous nature, appropriate handling procedures must be followed to prevent accidents or exposure. Specialized containers and labeling may be required for the transport of 3,6-Dichlorocatechol to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 3,6-Dichlorocatechol include its potential to cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract upon contact or inhalation. It is also considered harmful if swallowed, leading to potential gastrointestinal irritation or other adverse effects. Additionally, 3,6-Dichlorocatechol may have environmental hazards, such as being harmful to aquatic life.
The hazard statements for 3,6-Dichlorocatechol include its classification as harmful if swallowed, causing irritation to the skin and eyes, and being harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects. It is important to handle this substance with care to avoid potential health risks and environmental harm. Proper protective equipment should be worn when working with 3,6-Dichlorocatechol to minimize exposure and prevent accidents.
Precautionary statements for 3,6-Dichlorocatechol include avoiding release to the environment, wearing protective gloves and eye protection when handling the substance, and following proper storage and disposal procedures. It is important to keep this chemical stored in a well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials to prevent accidents or spills. In case of exposure, immediate medical attention should be sought, and contaminated clothing should be removed and washed before reuse.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 3,6-Dichlorocatechol is studying its environmental fate and potential for bioremediation. Understanding how this compound breaks down in the environment and identifying bacteria or enzymes that can degrade it could lead to practical applications in cleaning up contaminated sites.
Another avenue of research could focus on the toxicological effects of 3,6-Dichlorocatechol on human health and the environment. Investigating its potential to cause harm to organisms at various levels of the food chain, from bacteria to mammals, could provide valuable information for risk assessment and regulatory decisions.
Furthermore, exploring the synthesis and production methods of 3,6-Dichlorocatechol could lead to the development of more efficient and sustainable processes. Finding new ways to create this compound or its derivatives could open up opportunities for the pharmaceutical, agricultural, or chemical industries to utilize its unique properties in novel applications.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 3,6-Dichlorocatechol is 3,5-Dichlorocatechol. This compound has a molecular structure similar to 3,6-Dichlorocatechol, but with the chlorine atoms positioned at the 3 and 5 positions on the catechol ring instead of the 3 and 6 positions. This slight difference in substitution pattern can lead to variations in the compound’s reactivity and biological activity.
Another similar compound is 4,6-Dichlorocatechol. In this compound, the two chlorine atoms are located at the 4 and 6 positions on the catechol ring. Like 3,6-Dichlorocatechol, this compound is a dihydroxybenzene derivative with chlorine substituents. However, the different positioning of the chlorine atoms can result in distinct chemical properties and potential applications for 4,6-Dichlorocatechol.
Additionally, a related compound is 3,4-Dichlorocatechol. This compound features chlorine atoms at the 3 and 4 positions on the catechol ring. While sharing structural similarities with 3,6-Dichlorocatechol, such as the presence of two hydroxyl groups and two chlorine atoms on a benzene ring, 3,4-Dichlorocatechol may exhibit its own unique reactivity and biological effects due to the specific arrangement of its functional groups.