3,5-Dimethylphenol, commonly known as m-cresol, is a chemical compound with various practical applications in everyday life. It is commonly used as a precursor in the production of antioxidants, stabilizers, and fragrances. In addition, m-cresol is utilized in the manufacturing of disinfectants, wood preservatives, and pharmaceuticals. Its role in these industries highlights its relevance to maintaining cleanliness, extending the shelf life of products, and enhancing consumer goods. Therefore, 3,5-Dimethylphenol plays a significant role in various aspects of daily life through its diverse applications in the industrial sector.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
3,5-Dimethylphenol, also known as m-cresol, has various commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used as an intermediate chemical in the production of antioxidants, disinfectants, and fragrances. Additionally, 3,5-Dimethylphenol is utilized in the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals, agricultural chemicals, and rubber chemicals.
In terms of drug and medication applications, 3,5-Dimethylphenol is sometimes used as an antiseptic and disinfectant due to its antimicrobial properties. It can be found in certain topical creams and ointments for treating skin infections. However, its use in pharmaceutical products is limited compared to its industrial applications.
Overall, 3,5-Dimethylphenol plays a crucial role in various industries as a key ingredient in the production of a wide range of products. Its antimicrobial properties make it valuable in both commercial and medicinal applications, albeit to a lesser extent in the latter.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
3,5-Dimethylphenol, also known as 3,5-xylenol, is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a distinctive aromatic odor. It is commonly used in the production of disinfectants and antiseptics due to its antimicrobial properties.
With a molar mass of 122.16 g/mol and a density of 0.984 g/cm³, 3,5-Dimethylphenol falls within the range of the molar masses and densities of many common food items such as sugar and salt. Despite its chemical properties, it is not typically found in food products due to its potentially harmful effects if ingested.
3,5-Dimethylphenol has a melting point of 17.5°C and a boiling point of 232°C. In comparison to common food items like butter or chocolate, which have lower melting points, 3,5-Dimethylphenol has a higher melting and boiling point due to its molecular structure and intermolecular forces.
This compound is sparingly soluble in water and has a relatively low viscosity. When compared to common food items like sugar or salt, which readily dissolve in water, 3,5-Dimethylphenol exhibits lower solubility and viscosity. Its chemical properties make it more suitable for industrial applications rather than food production.
🏭 Production & Procurement
3,5-Dimethylphenol, also known as m-cresol, is primarily produced through the methylation of phenol using formaldehyde and a base, followed by fractionation. This method yields a high purity product suitable for various industrial applications. Additionally, 3,5-Dimethylphenol can also be synthesized from guaiacol through a series of chemical reactions involving diazotization and sandmeyer reactions.
Once produced, 3,5-Dimethylphenol can be procured from chemical suppliers in liquid or solid form, depending on the specific requirements of the end user. The compound is typically transported in sealed containers to prevent leakage or contamination during transit. Due to its flammability and potential hazards, proper handling and storage procedures must be followed to ensure safety during transportation.
In addition to traditional chemical suppliers, 3,5-Dimethylphenol can also be procured from online marketplaces or through specialized distributors. Care must be taken to verify the quality and purity of the product before making a purchase, as impurities or contaminants can affect the performance of the compound in various applications. Proper labeling and documentation should accompany the shipment to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 3,5-Dimethylphenol include its potential as a skin and eye irritant. It is also considered harmful if swallowed or inhaled. Proper personal protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, should be worn when handling this chemical to prevent exposure.
Hazard statements for 3,5-Dimethylphenol include “Causes skin irritation” and “Causes serious eye irritation.” It is also classified as harmful if swallowed or inhaled. It is important to take proper precautions when working with this chemical to avoid potential health risks.
Precautionary statements for 3,5-Dimethylphenol include “Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray.” It is also recommended to wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. In case of skin irritation, wash with plenty of soap and water. It is crucial to follow these precautionary measures to ensure safe handling of 3,5-Dimethylphenol.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 3,5-Dimethylphenol is its use as a precursor for the synthesis of various organic compounds, such as pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and polymers. By exploring the reactivity of 3,5-Dimethylphenol with different reagents and catalysts, researchers can discover new synthetic routes and improve the efficiency of chemical processes.
Another promising research avenue is the investigation of the environmental fate and toxicity of 3,5-Dimethylphenol. Studies on its degradation pathways, persistence in soil and water, and potential bioaccumulation in organisms can provide valuable insights into the environmental impact of this compound. Understanding its ecotoxicological effects can guide regulatory decisions and inform strategies for pollution prevention and remediation.
Furthermore, the exploration of the biological activities of 3,5-Dimethylphenol presents a significant research opportunity. This compound has been reported to exhibit antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting its potential therapeutic applications. Investigating the mechanisms of action and target molecules involved in these bioactivities can pave the way for the development of new drugs and nutraceuticals.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 3,5-Dimethylphenol is 3,4-Dimethylphenol. This compound has two methyl groups attached to the benzene ring at the 3 and 4 positions, similar to 3,5-Dimethylphenol. However, the location of the methyl groups differs, resulting in different chemical and physical properties.
Another compound sharing structural similarities with 3,5-Dimethylphenol is 2,4-Dimethylphenol. In this compound, the two methyl groups are attached to the benzene ring at the 2 and 4 positions. Like 3,5-Dimethylphenol, 2,4-Dimethylphenol exhibits unique reactivity and properties due to the positioning of the substituents on the aromatic ring.
Additionally, 2,5-Dimethylphenol is a compound closely related to 3,5-Dimethylphenol. In this molecule, the two methyl groups are attached to the benzene ring at the 2 and 5 positions. Despite the subtle difference in substitution pattern, 2,5-Dimethylphenol shares similar chemical and physical properties with 3,5-Dimethylphenol due to the presence of the two methyl groups on the aromatic ring.
