Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde is a compound commonly used in the production of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and dyes. Its relevance to everyday life lies in its role as a building block for various products that contribute to advancements in medicine, agriculture, and textiles. Additionally, thiophene-2-carbaldehyde is utilized in research and development efforts aimed at addressing various societal issues, such as disease prevention and sustainable agriculture practices. Its versatility and importance in a wide range of industries make it a crucial component of modern life.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde, also known as 2-formylthiophene, is a chemical compound with significant commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used as a building block for the synthesis of various heterocyclic compounds, which are essential for the development of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and materials science. The carbonyl group in thiophene-2-carbaldehyde allows for versatile reactivity, making it a valuable intermediate in organic synthesis.
In the pharmaceutical industry, thiophene-2-carbaldehyde plays a crucial role in the production of drug molecules due to its ability to introduce functional groups for desired biological activities. It is frequently utilized in the synthesis of potential drug candidates targeting various diseases such as cancer, infectious diseases, and neurological disorders. The presence of the thiophene ring in the structure of thiophene-2-carbaldehyde imparts unique properties that can enhance drug potency and selectivity.
Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde is also utilized in the formulation of medications for treating specific health conditions. Its structural features make it an important compound in the design of drugs with improved pharmacokinetic properties, such as enhanced solubility, stability, and bioavailability. By incorporating thiophene-2-carbaldehyde into drug formulations, pharmaceutical companies can optimize the therapeutic efficacy and safety of medications for patient use.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde is a colorless to light yellow liquid with a distinct odor. In terms of appearance, it resembles a clear, oily substance with a pungent aroma.
Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde has a molar mass of approximately 110.14 g/mol and a density of about 1.17 g/cm³. For comparison, common food items such as sugar and salt have molar masses ranging from 58.44 g/mol to 58.44 g/mol, and densities of approximately 1.59 g/cm³ and 2.16 g/cm³, respectively.
The melting point of Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde is around -8°C, while its boiling point is approximately 166°C. In contrast, common food items like butter have melting points between 30-35°C, and water boils at 100°C.
Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde is sparingly soluble in water and has a low viscosity. In comparison, common food items like sugar are highly soluble in water, while oils have higher viscosities.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde is typically produced through a synthetic route known as the Vilsmeier-Haack reaction. In this process, thiophene is reacted with chloroform and phosphorus oxychloride to yield the desired product. This reaction is commonly carried out under reflux conditions to ensure high yields of Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde.
The procurement of Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde is often facilitated by chemical suppliers who specialize in providing specialty chemicals to various industries. It can be purchased in bulk quantities or smaller amounts depending on the needs of the buyer. When transporting Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde, it is crucial to adhere to strict safety guidelines due to its flammable and toxic nature.
Once purchased, Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde is typically stored in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight to prevent degradation. Proper labeling of containers containing this compound is essential to ensure safe handling and storage. When transporting Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde, it is important to use appropriate packaging and comply with all regulations regarding the transportation of hazardous chemicals.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde include its flammable nature, with a flashpoint of 65°F, and its potential to form explosive peroxides upon prolonged exposure to air or light. This compound can also cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract upon contact or inhalation. Additionally, Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde may be harmful if swallowed, leading to nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Hazard statements for Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde include “Causes skin irritation,” “Causes serious eye irritation,” and “May cause respiratory irritation.” This compound is also labeled as “Harmful if swallowed” and “May form explosive peroxides.”
Precautionary statements for Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde advise users to wear protective gloves, clothing, eye protection, and face protection to minimize exposure. It is recommended to work with this compound in a well-ventilated area and avoid breathing in its vapors. In case of skin contact, rinsing with plenty of water and soap is advised, while in case of eye contact, users should rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Additionally, Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde should be stored in a cool, dry place away from sources of heat and ignition.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Potential research directions for Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde include its use as a building block for the synthesis of diverse heterocyclic compounds. Investigations into its reactivity with various nucleophiles could provide insight into new synthetic pathways. Further studies could explore its potential applications in drug discovery and material science.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde is Thiophene-3-carbaldehyde, which differs by having the aldehyde group attached to the third carbon of the thiophene ring. This structural similarity allows for similar reactions and chemical properties, making it a useful compound in organic chemistry research. The position of the aldehyde group can affect the reactivity and stability of the molecule in various reactions.
Another similar compound is 2-Furylcarbaldehyde, which contains a furan ring instead of a thiophene ring but bears an aldehyde group in the same position – at the second carbon of the heterocyclic ring. This compound exhibits some similar chemical properties to Thiophene-2-carbaldehyde due to the presence of the aldehyde functional group, making it a potential alternative in certain reactions or synthesis pathways. The aromaticity of the furan ring can also impart unique reactivity to this compound compared to thiophene derivatives.
A related compound is 2-Pyrrolecarbaldehyde, which features a pyrrole ring as the heterocyclic moiety with an aldehyde group attached to the second carbon. While pyrrole is structurally distinct from thiophene, the presence of the aldehyde functionality in an analogous position allows for similar reactivity patterns and potential applications in organic synthesis. Understanding the structure-activity relationships of these compounds can help chemists design more efficient synthetic routes or explore novel chemical transformations.
