Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate, a chemical compound commonly referred to as DMDCH, plays a significant role in everyday life as a key ingredient in the production of various consumer products. This compound is commonly utilized in the manufacturing of fragrances, paints, coatings, adhesives, and plastics. It serves as a critical building block for creating sustainable materials and enhancing the performance of numerous household items. Therefore, the relevance of Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate in modern society cannot be understated, as it contributes to the functionality and aesthetics of a wide range of products that individuals interact with on a daily basis.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate, commonly known as Dimethyl Adipate, has various commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used as a plasticizer in the production of polymers such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and cellulose acetate. Its high solvency power makes it useful in coatings, adhesives, and sealants, where it enhances flexibility and durability.
In addition to its commercial and industrial uses, Dimethyl Adipate also finds applications in the pharmaceutical industry. It is used as an excipient in drug formulations, where it serves as a solvent or a plasticizer. It can enhance the solubility of poorly soluble drugs, improve drug delivery systems, and aid in the encapsulation of active pharmaceutical ingredients.
Dimethyl Adipate has gained popularity as a green solvent due to its low toxicity and biodegradability. This has led to its use in personal care products, such as cosmetics and fragrances, where it can act as a solvent or a fixative. Its versatility and environmentally friendly profile make it a valuable ingredient in various consumer products.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate is a colorless liquid with a faint fruity odor. It is commonly used in the fragrance industry due to its pleasant scent.
With a molar mass of 224.30 g/mol and a density of 1.05 g/cm³, Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate is comparable in molar mass to sucrose and in density to olive oil.
Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate has a melting point of -27 °C and a boiling point of 145 °C. Compared to common food items, it has a lower melting point than butter and a higher boiling point than water.
This compound is sparingly soluble in water but has a relatively high viscosity. In comparison to common food items, it is less soluble in water than table salt and more viscous than maple syrup.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate is produced through the esterification reaction between cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid and methanol. This reaction is typically carried out in the presence of a catalyst, such as sulfuric acid, under reflux conditions. The product, dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate, is then isolated and purified through distillation or recrystallization processes.
Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate can be procured from chemical suppliers or manufacturers specializing in the production of ester compounds. The compound is typically available in liquid form or as a crystalline solid, depending on the supplier. It can be transported in containers or drums, following standard regulations for the safe handling and shipping of hazardous chemicals.
To facilitate the procurement and transportation of dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate, proper labeling and documentation are essential. Suppliers and handlers must comply with relevant safety guidelines and regulations to ensure the secure handling and storage of the compound. Additionally, transportation methods should be chosen carefully to minimize the risk of spills or accidents during transit.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate should include proper handling and storage guidelines to minimize the risk of exposure. This compound should be stored in a well-ventilated area away from sources of ignition, heat, and incompatible materials. Personal protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat, should be worn when handling Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate to prevent skin contact and inhalation of vapors. In case of accidental exposure, immediate medical attention should be sought, and the Material Safety Data Sheet should be consulted for further guidance.
The hazard statements for Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate include “Causes skin irritation,” “Causes serious eye irritation,” and “May cause respiratory irritation.” These statements indicate the potential risks associated with exposure to this compound, highlighting the importance of following safety precautions to minimize the likelihood of adverse effects. Individuals working with Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate should be aware of these hazards and take appropriate measures to protect themselves and others in the vicinity.
Precautionary statements for Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate include “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection,” “IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do – continue rinsing,” and “Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed.” These statements outline specific actions that should be taken to prevent exposure and respond effectively in case of accidental contact. Following these precautionary measures is essential to ensure the safe handling and storage of Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate, also known as dimethyl cyclohexanedicarboxylate, is a compound of interest in organic chemistry. One potential research direction for this compound is the investigation of its reactivity in various chemical reactions, aiming to identify new synthetic methods or applications.
Another possible research avenue could involve the study of the stereochemistry of dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate. By exploring the spatial arrangement of its atoms and understanding how this affects its properties, researchers may uncover valuable insights for the development of new molecules with specific functionalities or biological activities.
Furthermore, the potential use of dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate as a building block for the synthesis of complex organic molecules could be a fruitful research direction. By utilizing this compound as a starting material, scientists may explore novel pathways for the construction of diverse molecular architectures with potential relevance in medicinal chemistry, materials science, or other fields.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate is Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate. This compound shares the same molecular structure as Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate, with two methyl groups attached to the 1 and 4 positions of the cyclohexane ring and two carboxylate groups attached to the opposite positions.
Another compound with a similar molecular structure is Dimethyl 1,3-cyclohexanedicarboxylate. In this compound, the methyl groups are attached to the 1 and 3 positions of the cyclohexane ring, while the carboxylate groups are attached to the opposite positions. This compound is isomeric to Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate but differs in the position of the methyl groups on the cyclohexane ring.
Ethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate is another compound similar to Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate. In this compound, the two methyl groups are replaced with ethyl groups, while the carboxylate groups remain in the same positions. This compound has a similar molecular structure to Dimethyl 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate but differs in the substitution of the alkyl groups attached to the cyclohexane ring.
