Ethyl mandelate, a chemical compound commonly used in the fragrance industry, has relevance to everyday life due to its function as a flavoring agent in food products and as a component in perfumes and cosmetics. Its pleasant, sweet almond-like aroma contributes to the sensory experience of numerous consumer goods, ranging from baked goods to personal care products. Consequently, Ethyl mandelate plays a key role in enhancing the quality and appeal of various everyday items across the market.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Ethyl mandelate, a compound also known as ethyl 2-hydroxy-2-phenylacetate or mandelic acid ethyl ester, finds several applications in both commercial and industrial sectors. Traditionally, it is utilized as a fragrance ingredient in perfumes, cosmetics, and personal care products due to its pleasant, almond-like aroma. In the industrial realm, it serves as a precursor in the synthesis of various chemicals, such as pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, owing to its versatile reactivity.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, Ethyl mandelate exhibits potential as a pharmaceutical intermediate for the synthesis of various medications. Through its involvement in the pharmaceutical industry, it has been studied for its potential roles in medicinal chemistry, particularly in the development of analgesics and antispasmodics. Additionally, its structural properties make it a promising candidate in the design and production of novel drug compounds with potentially beneficial pharmacological activities.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Ethyl mandelate is a colorless liquid with a pleasant fruity odor. Its appearance is similar to that of common food flavorings.
The molar mass of Ethyl mandelate is approximately 166.18 g/mol, with a density of around 1.059 g/cm^3. In comparison to common food items, Ethyl mandelate has a higher molar mass and density than substances like sugar or salt.
The melting point of Ethyl mandelate is 46-48°C, while the boiling point is around 258°C. These values are higher than those of most common food items, such as water or cooking oil.
Ethyl mandelate is sparingly soluble in water, and has a low viscosity. In contrast to many common food items, Ethyl mandelate exhibits limited solubility in water and lower viscosity values.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Ethyl mandelate is typically produced through an esterification reaction between mandelic acid and ethanol. This process involves the use of a catalytic amount of acid or base to facilitate the reaction and produce the desired ester. The resulting Ethyl mandelate is a clear liquid with a fruity odor and is commonly used in the fragrance industry.
Ethyl mandelate can be procured through various suppliers who specialize in the production and distribution of fine chemicals. These suppliers often offer the compound in bulk quantities or pre-packaged containers for ease of transportation. The compound can be transported via common carriers such as trucks, trains, or ships depending on the quantity and destination of the shipment.
For smaller quantities of Ethyl mandelate, it may be procured from chemical distributors or specialty chemical stores. These suppliers typically carry a range of fine chemicals and can provide the compound in varying sizes to meet the needs of the customer. Additionally, Ethyl mandelate can also be purchased online from reputable chemical suppliers who offer convenient shipping options for delivery to the desired location.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for Ethyl mandelate include its potential as a flammable liquid, which should be stored away from heat sources and ignition sparks. Additionally, exposure to Ethyl mandelate may cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. It is important to use appropriate personal protective equipment when handling this compound, such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator. In case of accidental ingestion, medical attention should be sought immediately.
Hazard statements for Ethyl mandelate include “Causes skin irritation,” “Causes serious eye irritation,” and “May cause respiratory irritation.” These statements underscore the importance of proper handling and storage of Ethyl mandelate to avoid exposing individuals to its harmful effects. It is crucial to follow industry guidelines and regulations when working with this compound to minimize the risk of harm to oneself and others.
Precautionary statements for Ethyl mandelate include “Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray,” “Wash hands thoroughly after handling,” and “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.” These precautions serve as important reminders to take necessary steps to protect oneself while working with Ethyl mandelate. By following these precautionary measures, individuals can reduce the likelihood of accidents or harm when handling this compound.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Potential research directions for Ethyl mandelate may include studying its potential applications in organic synthesis, such as for the preparation of chiral building blocks or pharmaceutical intermediates. Researchers may also explore its potential as a flavoring agent in the food industry or as a fragrance ingredient in the cosmetics industry. Additionally, investigations into its chemical reactivity and stability under different conditions could provide valuable insights for its industrial use.
Further research could focus on the development of new synthetic methodologies for the preparation of Ethyl mandelate, with an emphasis on improving efficiency, selectivity, and yield. Understanding the mechanistic details of its reactions with various reagents could lead to the discovery of novel routes to its synthesis. Additionally, investigating its potential as a reagent in asymmetric synthesis could open up new avenues for the preparation of enantiomerically pure compounds.
Exploring the potential biological activities of Ethyl mandelate could also be a promising research direction, particularly in the fields of medicinal chemistry and drug discovery. Investigating its interactions with biological targets and its potential therapeutic benefits could lead to the development of new pharmaceuticals or bioactive compounds. Additionally, studies on its toxicity profile and metabolism could provide valuable information for assessing its safety for human consumption or use in medicinal products.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to Ethyl mandelate based upon molecular structure is Ethyl acetate. Ethyl acetate, also known as ethyl ethanoate, is a colorless liquid with a fruity odor. It is commonly used as a solvent in various applications such as nail polish remover and glue.
Another similar compound is Ethyl benzoate, which is the ester formed by the condensation of benzoic acid and ethanol. Ethyl benzoate is a colorless liquid with a pleasant odor and is used in the fragrance industry for its sweet, fruity scent. It is also used as a flavoring agent in food products.
Ethyl formate is yet another compound with a similar molecular structure to Ethyl mandelate. This compound is the ester of formic acid and ethanol and is found in nature in fruits and wine. Ethyl formate is used as a flavoring agent in the food industry and as a solvent in various chemical processes.
