3-(3'-Trifluoromethylphenyl)propanol
[CAS# 78573-45-2]

Identification

• Classification: Pharmaceutical intermediate >> API intermediate
• Name: 3-(3'-Trifluoromethylphenyl)propanol
• Synonyms: 3-(Trifluoromethyl)benzenepropanol
• Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₁₁F₃O
• Molecular Weight: 204.19
• CAS Registry Number: 78573-45-2
• EC Number: 616-635-7
• SMILES: C1=CC(=CC(=C1)C(F)(F)F)CCCO

Properties

• Density: 1.2±0.1 g/cm³, Calc.^*, 1.1 g/mL (Expl.)
• Index of Refraction: 1.465, Calc.^*
• Boiling Point: 236.9±35.0 ºC (760 mmHg), Calc.^*, 68-71 ºC (0.4 mmHg) (Expl.)
• Flash Point: 104.7±17.0 ºC, Calc.^*

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Hazard Statements: H315-H319-H335
• Precautionary Statements: P261-P264-P264+P265-P271-P280-P302+P352-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P319-P321-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335

Discovory and Applicatios

3-(3'-Trifluoromethylphenyl)propanol is an organic compound that belongs to the class of aromatic alcohols, which are characterized by the presence of a hydroxyl group attached to an aromatic ring. The specific compound in question is a derivative of phenylpropanol, where the phenyl group is substituted with a trifluoromethyl group at the meta position. This trifluoromethyl group (-CF3) is notable for its electron-withdrawing effects, which influence the chemical reactivity and physical properties of the molecule.

The discovery of 3-(3'-trifluoromethylphenyl)propanol can be traced back to the ongoing interest in modifying aromatic alcohols for improved activity and functionality. The incorporation of the trifluoromethyl group in organic synthesis has become increasingly common due to its ability to enhance the stability and lipophilicity of molecules, as well as its potential to modify their electronic characteristics. Researchers have explored various synthetic pathways to introduce this group into the aromatic structure, and 3-(3'-trifluoromethylphenyl)propanol represents one of the results of this research, where the hydroxyl group in the propanol side chain adds additional versatility to the molecule.

This compound has several applications in the fields of chemistry and pharmaceuticals. The trifluoromethyl group is known to impart unique properties to organic compounds, such as increased metabolic stability, enhanced bioavailability, and a higher affinity for lipid membranes. Therefore, 3-(3'-trifluoromethylphenyl)propanol has been investigated for its potential role as an intermediate in the synthesis of more complex molecules, especially in the development of pharmaceutical agents. The compound’s ability to undergo various chemical reactions—such as oxidation and esterification—has made it valuable in designing drugs with improved pharmacokinetic properties.

In addition to its use in pharmaceutical chemistry, 3-(3'-trifluoromethylphenyl)propanol is also employed in materials science. The trifluoromethyl group can contribute to the overall performance of organic materials, especially in the design of liquid crystals and other advanced materials with specific electronic or optical properties. As a result, this compound has found applications in the synthesis of specialized materials used in displays, sensors, and coatings.

Furthermore, the compound has been studied for its potential as a fragrance or flavoring agent. The incorporation of the trifluoromethyl group has been shown to influence the sensory profile of certain molecules, making 3-(3'-trifluoromethylphenyl)propanol a candidate for use in the production of unique scents or flavors in the consumer goods industry.

While the compound’s specific applications continue to be explored, it is evident that the trifluoromethyl group plays a critical role in enhancing the molecular properties of 3-(3'-trifluoromethylphenyl)propanol, making it a versatile building block in various scientific fields.