DL-3-Phenyllactic acid, a compound found in various foods and beverages, possesses biological properties that make it relevant to everyday life. Studies have shown that DL-3-Phenyllactic acid has antimicrobial effects, making it a potential ingredient in food preservation and pharmaceutical products. Additionally, it has been suggested to have potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. As research on DL-3-Phenyllactic acid continues, its potential applications in various industries and its impact on human health are areas of interest and relevance in modern society.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
DL-3-Phenyllactic acid, a compound derived from phenylalanine, has various commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used as a chiral building block in the pharmaceutical and fine chemical industries due to its high enantiomeric purity. Additionally, DL-3-Phenyllactic acid is utilized in the production of flavors and fragrances, as well as in the synthesis of biodegradable polymers.
In the field of drug and medication applications, DL-3-Phenyllactic acid has shown potential as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Research has suggested that this compound may possess neuroprotective properties, making it a promising candidate for the development of drugs targeting neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, DL-3-Phenyllactic acid has demonstrated antimicrobial activity, highlighting its potential use in pharmaceutical preparations for combating bacterial infections.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
DL-3-Phenyllactic acid is a white crystalline solid with no distinctive odor. Its appearance resembles fine powder, and it is virtually odorless.
The molar mass of DL-3-Phenyllactic acid is approximately 164.19 g/mol, while its density is around 1.29 g/cm^3. In comparison to common food items, DL-3-Phenyllactic acid has a higher molar mass and density than substances like sugar or salt.
DL-3-Phenyllactic acid has a melting point of around 131-133°C and a boiling point of approximately 295-297°C. These values are higher than those of common food items like butter or olive oil, which have lower melting and boiling points.
DL-3-Phenyllactic acid is sparingly soluble in water and has a low viscosity. In comparison to common food items like sugar or salt, DL-3-Phenyllactic acid has lower solubility in water and lower viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
DL-3-Phenyllactic acid is primarily produced through various chemical synthesis methods in laboratory settings. One common approach involves the reaction of benzaldehyde with pyruvic acid to yield DL-3-Phenyllactic acid. This process typically requires precise control of reaction conditions to ensure optimal yield and purity.
In terms of procurement, DL-3-Phenyllactic acid can be obtained from specialty chemical suppliers that offer the compound in varying quantities. The compound is typically available in both liquid and powder forms, depending on the specific requirements of the end user. Transportation of DL-3-Phenyllactic acid is typically done in sealed containers to prevent contamination and ensure the stability of the compound during transit.
Due to the specialized nature of DL-3-Phenyllactic acid, procurement may involve direct communication with suppliers to discuss specific requirements and delivery timelines. Additionally, proper handling and storage protocols should be followed to maintain the integrity of the compound upon receipt. It is advisable to work with reputable suppliers who adhere to quality control standards to ensure the purity and potency of DL-3-Phenyllactic acid.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for DL-3-Phenyllactic acid should be taken seriously due to its potential hazards. It is important to handle this compound with care, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves and safety goggles. Additionally, DL-3-Phenyllactic acid should be stored in a well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials to prevent any accidents or reactions.
Hazard statements for DL-3-Phenyllactic acid include “Causes skin irritation” and “Causes serious eye irritation.” These statements indicate the potential risks involved in handling this compound. It is important to follow proper safety protocols to avoid any contact with skin or eyes, as well as to prevent any accidental ingestion or inhalation of DL-3-Phenyllactic acid.
Precautionary statements for DL-3-Phenyllactic acid include “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.” These statements emphasize the importance of using appropriate protective measures when handling this compound, as well as providing guidelines on what to do in case of exposure. It is essential to follow these precautions to ensure the safety of individuals working with DL-3-Phenyllactic acid.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for DL-3-Phenyllactic acid is further investigating its antimicrobial properties. Studies could focus on exploring its effectiveness against a range of pathogens and determining the mechanisms by which it inhibits bacterial growth.
Another research avenue could involve examining the potential use of DL-3-Phenyllactic acid as a natural preservative in food and cosmetic products. Research could investigate its ability to prolong the shelf-life of products and its safety for human consumption or topical application.
Additionally, researchers may be interested in studying the potential health benefits of DL-3-Phenyllactic acid. This could involve investigating its antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory effects, or potential therapeutic applications in various diseases. Further research could help elucidate its mechanisms of action and potential use in clinical settings.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to DL-3-Phenyllactic acid is L-3-Phenyllactic acid, which is the enantiomer of DL-3-Phenyllactic acid. L-3-Phenyllactic acid has a similar molecular structure to DL-3-Phenyllactic acid, but differs in the chirality of the molecule.
Another similar compound to DL-3-Phenyllactic acid is 3-Phenyllactic acid, which lacks the DL designation indicating the racemic mixture of enantiomers. 3-Phenyllactic acid has the same molecular formula and functional groups as DL-3-Phenyllactic acid but is optically active due to its chirality.
Additionally, 3-Phenylpropionic acid is another compound similar to DL-3-Phenyllactic acid. 3-Phenylpropionic acid is structurally related to DL-3-Phenyllactic acid, but contains an additional methylene group in the carbon chain. This difference results in distinct chemical and physical properties between the two compounds.