2-Methyl-2-butenal, a compound commonly found in various foods such as beer and coffee, plays a significant role in everyday life. This compound is responsible for the distinctive aroma and flavor characteristics of these products, enhancing the overall sensory experience for consumers. Additionally, 2-Methyl-2-butenal is also used in the fragrance industry to create perfumes and colognes with unique and appealing scents. Overall, the presence of 2-Methyl-2-butenal in various consumer goods highlights its relevance and impact on everyday life.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
2-Methyl-2-butenal, also known as tiglic aldehyde, has various commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used as a flavoring agent in the food industry due to its sweet, fruity aroma. Additionally, it is employed in the production of perfumes and fragrances for its pleasant scent.
In the industrial sector, 2-Methyl-2-butenal is utilized as an intermediate in the synthesis of various chemicals, including pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and plasticizers. It is also used in the manufacture of rubber accelerators and antioxidants. Its versatility and reactivity make it a valuable compound in chemical synthesis processes.
Despite its commercial and industrial applications, 2-Methyl-2-butenal does not have significant drug or medication applications. While it may be used in research laboratories for specific purposes, it is not commonly found in pharmaceutical products or medications. Its primary role lies in the realms of flavoring, fragrance, and chemical synthesis in various industries.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
2-Methyl-2-butenal is a colorless liquid with a pungent, fruity odor. It is commonly used as a flavoring agent in food products due to its strong aroma and taste.
The molar mass of 2-Methyl-2-butenal is 86.13 g/mol, and its density is 0.801 g/cm3. Compared to common food items, such as sugar (molar mass: 342.30 g/mol, density: 1.59 g/cm3) and salt (molar mass: 58.44 g/mol, density: 2.16 g/cm3), 2-Methyl-2-butenal has a lower molar mass and density.
2-Methyl-2-butenal has a melting point of -91°C and a boiling point of 63-66°C. In comparison, common food items like butter (melting point: 32-35°C, boiling point: 177-204°C) and chocolate (melting point: 30-32°C, boiling point: 160°C) have higher melting and boiling points.
2-Methyl-2-butenal is slightly soluble in water and has a low viscosity. Compared to common food items like sugar (highly soluble in water, high viscosity) and oil (insoluble in water, low viscosity), 2-Methyl-2-butenal falls in between in terms of solubility and viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
2-Methyl-2-butenal, also known as tiglic aldehyde, is commonly produced through the dehydration of 2-methyl-2-butanol. This process involves the removal of a water molecule from the alcohol, resulting in the formation of the aldehyde.
Alternatively, 2-Methyl-2-butenal can also be produced from isobutyraldehyde through a condensation reaction with acetaldehyde in the presence of a base catalyst. This method results in a mixture of geometric isomers, with the E-isomer being the major product.
In terms of procurement and transportation, 2-Methyl-2-butenal is commercially available as a colorless to pale yellow liquid. It is typically stored and transported in tightly sealed containers to prevent exposure to air and moisture, which can cause degradation of the compound. The material safety data sheet should be consulted for specific guidelines on handling, storage, and transportation of 2-Methyl-2-butenal.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 2-Methyl-2-butenal, also known as methacrolein, should be taken seriously due to its hazardous nature. This chemical is highly flammable and can react violently with oxidizing agents. Contact with the skin or eyes should be avoided as it can cause irritation and damage. Inhalation of 2-Methyl-2-butenal vapor can lead to respiratory issues and should be prevented through proper ventilation and personal protective equipment such as a respirator.
The hazard statements for 2-Methyl-2-butenal include: “Highly flammable liquid and vapor,” “Causes skin irritation,” “Causes serious eye irritation,” “May cause respiratory irritation,” and “Suspected of causing genetic defects.” These statements highlight the potential risks associated with this chemical and emphasize the importance of handling it with care and following safety protocols to minimize exposure.
Precautionary statements for 2-Methyl-2-butenal include: “Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces – No smoking,” “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection,” “IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water,” “IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes,” and “Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep cool.” These precautions aim to guide individuals on the necessary steps to protect themselves and others when working with 2-Methyl-2-butenal, reducing the potential for accidents and adverse health effects.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Potential research directions for 2-Methyl-2-butenal include investigating its role as a flavor additive in food and beverages. This compound has been identified as a key contributor to the aroma of certain fruits and vegetables, making it a subject of interest for researchers in the food industry.
Another potential research direction for 2-Methyl-2-butenal involves studying its potential applications in organic synthesis. As a reactive compound with multiple functional groups, this aldehyde may have utility in the development of new chemical reactions and processes for the production of complex molecules.
Furthermore, research on the toxicity and environmental impact of 2-Methyl-2-butenal could shed light on its potential risks to human health and the ecosystem. Understanding the behavior and fate of this compound in the environment is crucial for assessing its overall safety and addressing any potential concerns related to its use in various industrial applications.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 2-Methyl-2-butenal is 3-Methyl-2-butenal. This compound has a similar molecular structure, but the position of the methyl group is different, leading to different chemical properties. 3-Methyl-2-butenal can undergo similar reactions as 2-Methyl-2-butenal due to its aldehyde functional group.
Another comparable compound is 2-Methyl-2-buten-1-ol. This compound is a structural isomer of 2-Methyl-2-butenal, with an additional hydroxyl group attached to the carbon chain. As a result, 2-Methyl-2-buten-1-ol has different chemical properties and reactivity compared to 2-Methyl-2-butenal, but similarities can still be found in their shared structural backbone.
A third related compound is 2-Methyl-2-butenoyl chloride. This compound is the acyl chloride derivative of 2-Methyl-2-butenal, with a chlorine atom replacing the hydroxyl group. 2-Methyl-2-butenoyl chloride exhibits different reactivity compared to 2-Methyl-2-butenal due to the presence of the acyl chloride functional group, but similarities can be observed in their shared alkene structure.
