Acenaphthylene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon that is primarily used in the manufacturing of dyes, plastics, and other chemical products. While it may not have direct relevance to everyday life for the general population, it plays a critical role in various industrial processes that contribute to the production of consumer goods and materials. Its properties and applications exemplify the importance of chemical compounds in advancing technology and innovation across different sectors.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Acenaphthylene, a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, is primarily used in the commercial and industrial sectors. Its applications include being a precursor in the production of various chemicals, such as dyes, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, it is utilized as a molecular probe in fluorescence spectroscopy studies due to its unique properties.
In terms of drug and medication applications, acenaphthylene does not have any direct usage in the pharmaceutical industry. Its chemical structure and properties do not lend themselves to therapeutic purposes. However, research continues to explore potential modifications of acenaphthylene to create novel compounds with biological activity for future drug development efforts.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Acenaphthylene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon that appears as white crystals with a distinct aromatic odor. Its strong aroma is characteristic of polycyclic aromatic compounds.
Acenaphthylene has a molar mass of 152.19 g/mol and a density of 1.18 g/cm3. In comparison to common household items, acenaphthylene has a higher molar mass than water (18.02 g/mol) and a slightly lower density compared to water (1 g/cm3).
The melting point of acenaphthylene is 93°C, while its boiling point is 279°C. Compared to common household items, acenaphthylene has a higher melting point than butter (30-35°C) and a lower boiling point than water (100°C).
Acenaphthylene is insoluble in water and has a low viscosity. In comparison to common household items, acenaphthylene is similar to oil in terms of solubility in water and viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Acenaphthylene is produced through the dehydrogenation of acenaphthene, a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon. This process involves heating acenaphthene to high temperatures in the presence of a catalyst, resulting in the formation of acenaphthylene.
Acenaphthylene can be procured from chemical suppliers or manufacturers who specialize in the production of aromatic hydrocarbons. It is typically stored and transported in sealed containers to prevent contamination or degradation. Special precautions may be necessary due to its potentially harmful effects on human health and the environment.
Transportation of acenaphthylene is typically done using standard chemical transportation methods, such as tank trucks or drums. Proper labeling and handling procedures should be followed to ensure the safety of personnel and the environment. Regulatory requirements regarding the transportation of hazardous materials must be strictly adhered to when transporting acenaphthylene.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for Acenaphthylene, a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, include its flammability and potential for causing skin irritation and respiratory issues. It is important to handle Acenaphthylene in a well-ventilated area and to avoid direct contact with skin or inhalation of its vapors. Proper personal protective equipment, such as gloves and a respirator, should be worn when working with this compound.
The pharmacology of Acenaphthylene involves its ability to act as a weak stimulant of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), which plays a role in xenobiotic metabolism and detoxification. However, specific pharmacological actions and effects of Acenaphthylene are not well-documented or widely studied in literature. Further research is needed to fully understand the pharmacological properties of this compound.
Hazard statements associated with Acenaphthylene include its classification as a flammable liquid and its potential for causing skin irritation and respiratory sensitization. It may also have long-term effects on aquatic life if released into water systems. It is important to store Acenaphthylene away from sources of ignition and to prevent its release into the environment to minimize potential hazards.
Precautionary statements for Acenaphthylene include recommendations to keep the compound away from heat, sparks, and open flames, and to avoid contact with skin and eyes. In case of skin contact, affected areas should be washed thoroughly with soap and water. If inhaled, the person should be moved to a well-ventilated area and given fresh air. Any spills of Acenaphthylene should be contained and cleaned up using appropriate absorbent materials.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Potential research directions for acenaphthylene include studying its environmental fate and transport, as well as its toxicological effects on humans and other organisms. Investigations into the compound’s biodegradation pathways could also be valuable in developing strategies for its remediation in contaminated sites.
Furthermore, exploring the synthesis of derivatives of acenaphthylene could lead to the discovery of new materials with unique properties and potential applications in various industries. Research into the compound’s reactivity with different chemical agents could also provide insights into its behavior under various conditions, further expanding our understanding of its chemical properties.
Additionally, investigating the potential pharmaceutical applications of acenaphthylene and its derivatives could open up new avenues for drug discovery and development. Studying the compound’s interactions with biological systems could provide valuable information on its potential therapeutic effects and possible side effects, paving the way for the development of novel drugs based on its structure and properties.
🧪 Related Compounds
Acenaphthene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon with a molecular structure closely related to acenaphthylene. It consists of a central naphthalene ring fused with a cyclopropane ring, similar to the structure of acenaphthylene. This compound is commonly used as a precursor to dyes and pharmaceuticals due to its stability and reactivity.
Anthracene is another compound that bears resemblance to acenaphthylene based on its molecular structure. It is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon composed of three fused benzene rings, similar to the condensed ring structure of acenaphthylene. Anthracene is widely utilized in the production of dyes, fragrances, and organic semiconductors due to its fluorescent properties and chemical stability.
Fluoranthene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon with a molecular structure comparable to acenaphthylene. It contains four fused benzene rings, similar to the condensed ring system found in acenaphthylene. Fluoranthene is commonly encountered as a pollutant in the environment due to its presence in combustion products, but it also finds applications in organic synthesis for the preparation of various chemical compounds.
