4-Nitrobiphenyl is a chemical compound that is primarily used as an intermediate in the production of various pharmaceuticals, dyes, and other organic compounds. While it may not have direct relevance to everyday life for the general population, it plays a crucial role in the manufacturing processes of numerous industries. Its significance lies in its ability to serve as a building block for the synthesis of valuable products that ultimately impact our daily lives in ways that are often unseen but significant.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
4-Nitrobiphenyl, also known as 4-NBP, is commonly utilized in industrial processes for the production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and other organic compounds. Its ability to act as a precursor in the synthesis of various chemicals makes it a valuable component in chemical manufacturing.
In the commercial sector, 4-Nitrobiphenyl is often employed in the production of azo dyes, which are widely used in the textile industry for coloring fabrics. The compound’s chemical properties allow for the creation of vibrant and long-lasting dyes that adhere well to different types of materials.
In the pharmaceutical industry, 4-Nitrobiphenyl is used as an intermediate in the synthesis of various medications. It serves as a building block for the production of pharmaceutical compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. The versatility of 4-Nitrobiphenyl makes it an essential component in drug development processes.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
4-Nitrobiphenyl is a yellow crystalline solid with a faint odor. It is sparingly soluble in water and has a slight viscosity when in its solid form.
The molar mass of 4-Nitrobiphenyl is approximately 199.20 g/mol with a density of 1.32 g/cm3. Compared to common food items like sucrose (molar mass of 342.30 g/mol) and olive oil (density of 0.91 g/cm3), 4-Nitrobiphenyl has a lower molar mass and higher density.
4-Nitrobiphenyl has a melting point of 151-153°C and a boiling point of 358-359°C. These values are significantly higher compared to common food items like butter (melting point of 32-35°C) and water (boiling point of 100°C), indicating its higher heat stability.
4-Nitrobiphenyl is sparingly soluble in water and exhibits low viscosity. In comparison to common food items like salt (soluble in water) and honey (high viscosity), 4-Nitrobiphenyl shows poor solubility in water and low viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
4-Nitrobiphenyl is typically produced through the nitration of biphenyl, a process that involves the reaction of biphenyl with a mixture of nitric and sulfuric acids at elevated temperatures. This chemical reaction leads to the substitution of a nitro group (-NO2) on one of the benzene rings of the biphenyl molecule, resulting in the formation of 4-Nitrobiphenyl.
In terms of procurement and transportation, 4-Nitrobiphenyl can be obtained from chemical suppliers or manufacturers specializing in aromatic compounds. The compound is often shipped in sealed containers to prevent any contamination or degradation during transit. Proper handling and storage procedures should be followed to maintain the integrity of the product during transportation.
When procuring 4-Nitrobiphenyl for research or industrial purposes, it is essential to ensure compliance with local regulations and safety guidelines regarding the handling and storage of hazardous chemicals. Some suppliers may require specialized licenses or permits for the purchase and transportation of certain chemical compounds, including 4-Nitrobiphenyl. Additionally, it is advisable to conduct thorough risk assessments and implement appropriate safety measures to mitigate potential hazards associated with the handling of this compound.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 4-Nitrobiphenyl must be taken seriously due to its hazardous nature. This compound is classified as a Category 3 flammable liquid, which means it can ignite easily and pose a fire hazard. It is also harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or comes into contact with skin, as it can cause irritation, respiratory distress, and other health issues. Therefore, proper storage, handling, and personal protective equipment are essential when working with 4-Nitrobiphenyl to minimize the risk of accidents and exposure.
Hazard statements for 4-Nitrobiphenyl include “Causes skin irritation,” “Causes serious eye irritation,” “May cause respiratory irritation,” and “May cause drowsiness or dizziness.” These statements highlight the potential dangers associated with this compound, emphasizing the need for caution and proper safety measures when working with or around it. Furthermore, the flammability of 4-Nitrobiphenyl adds an additional layer of risk that must be addressed to ensure the safety of individuals and the work environment.
Precautionary statements for 4-Nitrobiphenyl include “Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces,” “Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray,” “Wear protective gloves/eye protection/face protection,” and “Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep cool.” These statements outline the necessary precautions that should be taken to minimize the risk of fire, inhalation, skin contact, and other potential hazards posed by 4-Nitrobiphenyl. By following these guidelines, individuals can work safely with this compound and reduce the likelihood of accidents or injuries.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Potential research directions for 4-Nitrobiphenyl include investigation into its environmental impact and toxicity, as it is a known environmental pollutant. Studies could also focus on its potential uses in organic synthesis as a building block for more complex molecules. Additionally, research could explore the development of more efficient methods for its synthesis to reduce costs and waste in production processes.
Further research could be directed towards understanding the mechanisms of its biological activity and potential pharmacological applications. Studies could investigate its interactions with cell signaling pathways and potential therapeutic effects in different disease models. Exploration of its potential as a drug candidate or as a scaffold for drug design could also be a promising avenue for future research.
Additionally, investigations into the potential degradation pathways of 4-Nitrobiphenyl in the environment could provide valuable insights into ways to remediate its presence in contaminated sites. Research on biodegradation processes involving microorganisms could lead to the development of sustainable and environmentally-friendly methods for the removal of this compound from soil and water systems. Furthermore, studies on the fate and transport of 4-Nitrobiphenyl in different environmental compartments could contribute to the development of risk assessment and management strategies.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 4-Nitrobiphenyl based upon molecular structure is 4-Nitroaniline. This compound also contains a nitro group attached to a benzene ring, similar to 4-Nitrobiphenyl. The difference lies in the presence of an amino group on one of the benzene rings in 4-Nitroaniline.
Another similar compound is 4-Nitrophenol, which shares a nitro group attached to a benzene ring with 4-Nitrobiphenyl. The distinguishing feature of 4-Nitrophenol is the presence of a hydroxyl group on the same benzene ring as the nitro group, giving it distinct chemical properties.
4-Nitrotoluene is yet another compound similar to 4-Nitrobiphenyl in terms of molecular structure. It contains a nitro group attached to a methyl-substituted benzene ring, differing from 4-Nitrobiphenyl in the presence of the methyl group on one of the benzene rings.
