p-Aminophenol, a chemical compound commonly used in hair dyes and pharmaceuticals, plays a significant role in everyday life. It is a key ingredient in hair coloring products due to its ability to produce a variety of shades. Additionally, p-Aminophenol is utilized in the manufacture of various medications, particularly in the treatment of fever and pain. Its versatility and widespread application make it a crucial component in several consumer products, highlighting its relevance in daily life.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
p-Aminophenol, also known as 4-aminophenol, finds various commercial and industrial applications due to its chemical properties. It is commonly used in the production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and polymers. Additionally, p-Aminophenol is utilized as a developer in photography and as a precursor in the synthesis of other chemical compounds.
In the pharmaceutical industry, p-Aminophenol is utilized in the production of drugs and medications. It is a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds such as acetaminophen and a variety of analgesics. Furthermore, p-Aminophenol is used in hair dyes and hair colorants due to its ability to produce permanent color changes.
The versatility of p-Aminophenol extends beyond its commercial and industrial applications to include its significance in the field of medicinal chemistry. Its role as a building block in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals highlights its importance in drug development. Furthermore, p-Aminophenol’s potential therapeutic properties make it a valuable compound in the creation of medications aimed at treating various conditions.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
p-Aminophenol is a crystalline white solid with a slight odor resembling that of phenol.
With a molar mass of 109.13 g/mol and a density of 1.32 g/cm³, p-Aminophenol is heavier than common household items like sugar (molar mass of 342.3 g/mol) and water (density of 1.00 g/cm³).
The melting point of p-Aminophenol is approximately 188-190°C, while the boiling point is around 282-284°C. Compared to common household items, p-Aminophenol has a higher melting point than butter (melting point around 32-35°C) and a lower boiling point than cooking oil (boiling point around 150-190°C).
p-Aminophenol is sparingly soluble in water and exhibits a low viscosity. This contrasts with common household items like salt (which is highly soluble in water) and honey (which has a high viscosity).
🏭 Production & Procurement
p-Aminophenol is primarily produced through the reduction of nitrobenzene with sodium sulfide in the presence of a nickel catalyst. This process results in the formation of p-Aminophenol as a major byproduct along with other minor byproducts. The reaction is typically carried out in a batch reactor under controlled conditions to optimize the yield of p-Aminophenol.
p-Aminophenol can be procured from chemical suppliers who specialize in the production and distribution of specialty chemicals. It is often available in the form of a crystalline solid or powder, packaged in containers suitable for transportation and storage. Due to its sensitive nature, p-Aminophenol is usually shipped in sealed containers to prevent degradation or contamination during transit.
The transportation of p-Aminophenol is typically done using standard shipping methods, such as ground or air freight, depending on the quantity and urgency of the delivery. Special precautions may be necessary for handling and storing p-Aminophenol due to its toxic and flammable nature. Proper labeling and documentation are required to ensure compliance with transportation regulations and to guarantee the safe handling of the chemical.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for p-Aminophenol include its potential for causing skin and eye irritation. It is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves and safety goggles when handling this chemical. p-Aminophenol should be stored in a well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials to prevent the risk of fire or explosion.
The pharmacology of p-Aminophenol involves its role as a precursor to various pharmaceutical and chemical compounds. It is commonly used in the production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and other organic compounds. p-Aminophenol can undergo various chemical reactions to form different products, making it a versatile chemical in the synthesis of various substances.
Hazard statements for p-Aminophenol include its potential to cause skin and eye irritation, as well as respiratory irritation if inhaled. This chemical may be harmful if swallowed or absorbed through the skin. It is important to avoid direct contact with p-Aminophenol and to use appropriate protective measures when handling this chemical to minimize the risk of adverse health effects.
Precautionary statements for p-Aminophenol include wearing protective gloves, clothing, and eye protection when handling this chemical. It is important to work in a well-ventilated area and to avoid inhaling vapors or dust from p-Aminophenol. In case of exposure, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately and to rinse affected areas with plenty of water.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for p-Aminophenol is its use as a building block in the synthesis of organic compounds. Its versatility in chemical reactions makes it a valuable intermediate in the pharmaceutical and dye industries.
Furthermore, researchers may explore the toxicological effects of p-Aminophenol exposure on human health. This could involve studying its impact on different organs and systems within the body, as well as potential long-term effects from chronic exposure.
Additionally, the development of new analytical methods for detecting p-Aminophenol in various matrices could be a fruitful research avenue. Improving sensitivity and selectivity of detection techniques will aid in monitoring environmental and occupational exposure to this compound.
🧪 Related Compounds
One compound with a molecular structure similar to p-Aminophenol is m-Aminophenol. This compound also contains an amino group attached to a phenol group, but in the meta position rather than the para position. The difference in positioning of the amino group can lead to different reactivity and properties compared to p-Aminophenol.
Another compound with a molecular structure akin to p-Aminophenol is o-Aminophenol. Like p-Aminophenol, this compound features an amino group attached to a phenol group, but in the ortho position. The position of the amino group in o-Aminophenol can influence its chemical behavior and interactions with other compounds, resulting in distinct properties from p-Aminophenol.
Furthermore, a similar compound to p-Aminophenol is N-Acetyl-p-aminophenol, also known as paracetamol. This compound contains an acetyl group attached to the amino group of p-Aminophenol, altering its pharmacological properties. Paracetamol is widely used as a pain reliever and fever reducer due to its ability to inhibit the synthesis of prostaglandins in the brain.
