4-Chloro-2-methylphenol, also known as PCMX, serves as an important antimicrobial agent in various everyday products such as soaps, lotions, and cleaning solutions. Its ability to eliminate harmful bacteria and fungi makes it a crucial component in maintaining personal hygiene and preventing the spread of infections in both household and healthcare settings. As such, PCMX plays a vital role in safeguarding public health and promoting cleanliness in our daily lives.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
4-Chloro-2-methylphenol, also known as 4-Chloro-o-cresol, finds various commercial and industrial applications due to its antifungal and antimicrobial properties. It is often used as a preservative in personal care products, such as shampoos, soaps, and cosmetics, to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. Additionally, 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol is utilized in wood preservation treatments to protect against decay and termite infestation.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol plays a crucial role as an ingredient in antiseptic formulations. This compound is commonly included in topical ointments and creams to treat skin infections and wounds by eliminating harmful microorganisms. Its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity makes it an effective agent for preventing and treating various skin conditions, such as dermatitis and fungal infections.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
4-Chloro-2-methylphenol is a white crystalline solid with a slight phenolic odor. It is commonly used as a disinfectant and antiseptic in various products.
The molar mass of 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol is 156.57 g/mol, and its density is approximately 1.25 g/cm³. In comparison, common food items like sugar and salt have lower molar masses and densities.
The melting point of 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol is around 35-37°C, and its boiling point is approximately 218-220°C. These values are higher than those of many common food items like butter and chocolate.
4-Chloro-2-methylphenol is sparingly soluble in water, with a slight viscosity. This contrasts with common food items like sugar and salt, which are highly soluble in water and have low viscosities.
🏭 Production & Procurement
4-Chloro-2-methylphenol, also known as chlorocresol, is typically produced through the chlorination of m-cresol in the presence of an acid catalyst. This process leads to the substitution of a chlorine atom for a hydrogen atom on the phenol ring, resulting in the formation of 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol. The reaction is carefully controlled to ensure the desired product is obtained.
In terms of procurement, 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol can be obtained from chemical suppliers who specialize in providing various organic compounds. It is usually available in solid or liquid form, depending on the specific requirements of the buyer. The compound can be transported in sealed containers to prevent contamination and ensure safe handling during transit.
When transporting 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol, it is important to follow proper safety protocols to minimize the risk of exposure to the compound. Protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, should be worn when handling the substance to prevent skin contact or inhalation of fumes. Additionally, the compound should be securely packaged to prevent leaks or spills during transportation to its final destination.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol include its potential for causing skin and eye irritation upon contact. It is important to handle this chemical with care by wearing appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves and goggles to minimize the risk of exposure. Additionally, it is crucial to work with 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhalation of its vapors which can be harmful to respiratory health.
Hazard statements for 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol include “Causes skin irritation”, “Causes serious eye irritation”, and “Toxic if swallowed”. These statements serve as warnings about the potential hazards associated with this chemical and highlight the importance of taking necessary precautions when handling it to prevent adverse health effects.
Precautionary statements for 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol recommend wearing protective gloves and eye protection when handling this chemical to avoid skin and eye irritation. It is advised to work in a well-ventilated area and avoid breathing in vapors. In case of ingestion, medical attention should be sought immediately, and if 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol comes into contact with skin or eyes, it should be rinsed off with plenty of water.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Further research on 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol can explore its potential as a disinfectant or antimicrobial agent due to its known antimicrobial properties. Investigating its effects on different types of bacteria and fungi can provide valuable insights into its potential applications in various industries, such as healthcare and agriculture.
Another important research direction could focus on the environmental impact of 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol. Understanding its persistence in the environment, as well as its potential toxicity to aquatic and terrestrial organisms, is crucial for assessing its overall risk to ecosystems and human health.
Additionally, studying the chemical reactivity of 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol can provide valuable information on its potential use in organic synthesis and manufacturing processes. Investigating its interactions with other chemicals and its potential for forming new compounds can lead to the development of novel biologically active molecules.
Lastly, research on the potential health effects of 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol exposure in humans can provide important information for regulatory agencies and healthcare professionals. Studies on its absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion in the human body can help determine safe exposure levels and guidelines for its use in various consumer products.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol is 3-Chloro-2-methylphenol. This compound has a similar molecular structure to 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol, with a chlorine atom and a methyl group attached to a phenol ring. The positioning of the substituent groups on the phenol ring is different from 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol, but they share some structural features.
Another comparable compound is 4-Bromo-2-methylphenol. This compound also contains a halogen substituent (bromine) and a methyl group attached to a phenol ring. The presence of a bromine atom instead of a chlorine atom in the para position to the methyl group distinguishes this compound from 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol. Despite this difference, they share common structural elements.
A further related compound is 4-Nitro-2-methylphenol. In this compound, a nitro group replaces the chlorine atom present in 4-Chloro-2-methylphenol. The methyl group remains in the ortho position to the nitro group. Although the functional groups differ, both compounds exhibit similarities in their molecular structures due to the phenol ring and the substituent groups attached to it.
