2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde, a compound commonly used in the fragrance industry, plays a significant role in everyday life. It is a key ingredient in perfumes, colognes, and other scented products, providing them with a floral or fruity scent. Additionally, this compound is used in the production of flavorings for food and beverages, further underscoring its importance in enhancing sensory experiences. Its versatile applications make 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde a valuable component in various consumer products found in households worldwide.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde, also known as mesityl aldehyde, has various commercial and industrial applications. This compound is commonly used as a fragrance ingredient in perfumes and cosmetics due to its pleasant odor. Additionally, it is used in the chemical industry as a precursor in the synthesis of other organic compounds.
In the field of drug and medication applications, 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde has been studied for its potential antifungal and antimicrobial properties. Researchers have investigated its effectiveness in inhibiting the growth of certain fungi and bacteria, making it a possible candidate for the development of new pharmaceutical products. Further studies are needed to fully explore its medical applications.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a sweet, floral odor.
The molar mass of 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde is 150.21 g/mol, and its density is 1.01 g/cm³. Comparatively, this compound has a higher molar mass and lower density than common food items such as sugar or salt.
The melting point of 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde is -31°C, while the boiling point is 237°C. These values are higher than those of most common food items, making this compound more stable at higher temperatures.
2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde is sparingly soluble in water and has a low viscosity. This is in contrast to common food items that are typically highly soluble in water and have a lower viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde, a compound commonly used in the fragrance industry, is typically produced through a multistep synthetic process. The starting material is toluene, which undergoes a series of reactions including oxidation, alkylation, and eventually formylation to yield 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde.
Once synthesized, 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde can be procured from chemical suppliers specializing in aromatic aldehydes. The compound is typically sold in liquid form in various quantities, ranging from small vials to bulk containers.
For transportation, 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde is classified as a hazardous material due to its potential flammability. Therefore, it must be packaged and labeled according to regulatory standards set by transportation authorities. This compound is typically transported in sealed containers via ground or air freight to customers worldwide.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde, also known as mesityl aldehyde, include the potential for skin and eye irritation. It is important to handle this compound with care, using appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves and goggles. In case of contact with the skin or eyes, it is recommended to rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
It is also important to be aware of the potential for respiratory irritation when working with 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde. Proper ventilation should be ensured in the work area to minimize exposure to vapors. In case of inhalation of vapors, it is advisable to move to an area with fresh air and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Hazard statements for 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde include “Causes skin irritation” and “Causes serious eye irritation.” These statements highlight the potential for irritation when handling this compound. It is important to take necessary precautions to minimize skin and eye contact, such as wearing gloves and goggles. In case of skin or eye contact, it is recommended to rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Precautionary statements for 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde include “Avoid breathing vapors” and “Wear protective gloves/eye protection.” These statements emphasize the importance of preventing inhalation of vapors and ensuring proper personal protective equipment is worn when handling this compound. It is essential to follow these precautions to minimize the risk of exposure and potential irritation.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Research on 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde could focus on its potential applications in the development of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) due to its electron-donating properties and high thermal stability.
Another direction for research could be investigating the role of 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde as a building block for the synthesis of new pharmaceutical compounds, as its unique structure may offer opportunities for designing novel drug candidates with improved biological activity.
Furthermore, studies on the reactivity of 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde with various reagents could provide valuable insights into its potential as a versatile intermediate for the preparation of diverse organic compounds with tailored properties for a range of industrial applications.
🧪 Related Compounds
One compound similar to 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde based on molecular structure is 2,3,5-Trimethylbenzaldehyde. In this compound, the three methyl groups are positioned at the 2, 3, and 5 positions on the benzene ring, rather than the 2, 4, and 6 positions as in 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde. This slight variation in methyl group placement results in a molecule with similar steric properties, but distinct chemical reactivity.
Another compound with a comparable molecular structure to 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde is 2,4,6-Trimethoxybenzaldehyde. In this compound, the three methoxy (OCH3) groups are situated at the 2, 4, and 6 positions on the benzene ring, mirroring the arrangement of the methyl groups in 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde. Like 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde, 2,4,6-Trimethoxybenzaldehyde exhibits similar steric effects due to the bulkiness of the substituents.
Similarly, 2,4,6-Trifluorobenzaldehyde shares structural similarities with 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde. In this compound, three fluorine atoms are attached to the benzene ring at the 2, 4, and 6 positions, akin to the arrangement of the methyl groups in 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde. Despite the presence of different substituents, the overall molecular shape and steric hindrance effects in 2,4,6-Trifluorobenzaldehyde are comparable to those in 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzaldehyde.
