Adipic acid monoethyl ester is a compound used in the manufacturing of various consumer products, including perfumes, detergents, and plasticizers. Its relevance to everyday life lies in its versatile applications in products that individuals use on a daily basis. Whether it is enhancing the fragrance of a personal care item or improving the flexibility of a plastic product, adipic acid monoethyl ester plays a crucial role in meeting the demands of modern consumers.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Adipic acid monoethyl ester, also known as ethyl adipate, finds commercial and industrial applications in various industries. It is commonly used as a solvent for resins, lacquers, and dyes due to its good solvency and low volatility. Additionally, it is utilized as a plasticizer in the production of vinyl films, adhesives, and coatings to improve flexibility and durability.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, adipic acid monoethyl ester serves as an excipient in pharmaceutical formulations. It is often used as a solubilizer in oral and topical drug products to enhance the solubility of poorly water-soluble drugs. Its compatibility with a wide range of active pharmaceutical ingredients makes it a versatile ingredient in drug delivery systems and formulations.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Adipic acid monoethyl ester is a clear, colorless liquid with a mild, fruity odor. It is commonly used as a flavoring agent in food products.
The molar mass of Adipic acid monoethyl ester is approximately 186.23 g/mol, and its density is around 1.0 g/cm³. This molar mass is similar to that of common food items such as sugar (180.16 g/mol) and salt (58.44 g/mol), while its density is comparable to water (1.0 g/cm³).
Adipic acid monoethyl ester has a melting point of around -45°C and a boiling point of approximately 195°C. These values are higher than those of common food items, such as butter (melting point of around 32°C) and water (boiling point of 100°C).
This compound is moderately soluble in water and has a relatively low viscosity. Compared to common food items like sugar and salt, Adipic acid monoethyl ester exhibits lower solubility in water and lower viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Adipic acid monoethyl ester is produced through the esterification of adipic acid with ethanol. This chemical reaction involves the removal of a water molecule from the acid and alcohol, resulting in the formation of the ester. The process typically requires the use of a catalyst, such as sulfuric acid, to facilitate the reaction.
Adipic acid monoethyl ester can be procured from chemical suppliers who specialize in the production and distribution of industrial chemicals. The compound is commonly available in both liquid and solid form, depending on the manufacturer’s specifications. Once procured, the ester can be transported in sealed containers to prevent contamination and ensure its stability during transit.
The transportation of Adipic acid monoethyl ester typically involves the use of specialized chemical tanks or drums to ensure its safe and secure delivery. In some cases, the ester may be transported in bulk quantities via tanker trucks or rail cars, depending on the volume needed by the end user. Proper labeling and handling procedures are essential to prevent spills or accidents during transportation.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for Adipic acid monoethyl ester, a chemical compound commonly used as a plasticizer, include potential hazards related to its flammability, skin irritation, and eye irritation. Adequate ventilation is necessary when handling this compound to prevent inhalation of vapors, and personal protective equipment such as gloves and safety glasses should be worn to minimize skin and eye contact. In case of accidental exposure, immediate medical attention is advised, and proper storage in a cool, dry place away from heat sources is recommended to prevent decomposition and the release of harmful gases.
Hazard statements for Adipic acid monoethyl ester include “Flammable liquid and vapor,” “Causes skin irritation,” and “Causes serious eye irritation.” These statements indicate the potential risks associated with exposure to this compound, highlighting the importance of proper handling and storage procedures to minimize the likelihood of adverse health effects. Individuals working with Adipic acid monoethyl ester should be aware of these hazard statements and take appropriate precautions to protect themselves and others in the vicinity.
Precautionary statements for Adipic acid monoethyl ester include “Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces – No smoking,” “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection,” and “IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.” These statements emphasize the importance of following safety protocols when using Adipic acid monoethyl ester, including avoiding sources of ignition, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, and taking prompt action in case of exposure to the compound. Adherence to these precautionary statements can help mitigate the risks associated with handling Adipic acid monoethyl ester and ensure a safe working environment.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for Adipic acid monoethyl ester could involve investigating its application as a plasticizer in various polymers, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), to improve flexibility and durability.
Another avenue of research could focus on exploring the synthesis methods of Adipic acid monoethyl ester to optimize production efficiency and reduce environmental impact, potentially leading to the development of more sustainable processes.
Additionally, researchers may investigate the potential use of Adipic acid monoethyl ester as a precursor for the synthesis of other valuable compounds, such as pharmaceuticals or specialty chemicals, through further functionalization reactions.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to Adipic acid monoethyl ester based on its molecular structure is Adipic acid monomethyl ester. This compound has a slightly smaller methyl group attached to the carboxylic acid functional group, making it more hydrophobic than the ethyl ester. This difference in functional group can lead to variations in solubility and reactivity, which may be of interest in various applications.
Another similar compound to Adipic acid monoethyl ester is Adipic acid mono-n-propyl ester. This compound differs from the ethyl ester by having a longer n-propyl group attached to the carboxylic acid functional group. The increased carbon chain length can impact the compound’s physical and chemical properties, such as melting point and solubility, potentially making it more suitable for specific purposes.
Additionally, a related compound to Adipic acid monoethyl ester is Adipic acid monobutyl ester. This compound has a larger butyl group attached to the carboxylic acid functional group compared to the ethyl ester. The increased size of the group can influence the compound’s interactions with other molecules, altering its behavior in various environments. Exploring the structural variations of these compounds can provide valuable insights into their potential uses and applications in different fields.
