3-Phenyl-1-propanol
[CAS# 122-97-4]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Digestive system medication >> Biliary medicine
• Name: 3-Phenyl-1-propanol
• Synonyms: 3-Phenylpropyl alcohol
• Molecular Formula: C₉H₁₂O
• Molecular Weight: 136.19
• CAS Registry Number: 122-97-4
• EC Number: 204-587-6
• FEMA: 2885
• SMILES: C1=CC=C(C=C1)CCCO

Properties

• Water solubility: 10.3 g/L (20 °C)
• Density: 1.0±0.1 g/mL, Calc.^*,1.001 g/mL (Expl.)
• Melting point: -18 °C (Expl.)
• Index of Refraction: 1.528, Calc.^*, 1.526 (Expl.)
• Boiling Point: 235.8±9.0 °C (760 mmHg), Calc.^*, 271-273.7 °C (Expl.)
• Flash Point: 109.4 °C, Calc.^*, 120 °C (Expl.)

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

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H315-H319
• Safety Statements: P264-P264+P265-P280-P302+P352-P305+P351+P338-P321-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1B	H314
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2A	H319

Discovery and Applications

3-Phenyl-1-propanol is an organic compound with the chemical formula C9H12O. It is an aromatic alcohol that consists of a phenyl group attached to a propanol chain. This compound occurs as a colorless liquid with a floral, rose-like odor and is used in various industrial and synthetic applications.

The synthesis of 3-phenyl-1-propanol is typically carried out through the reduction of 3-phenylpropanal, which is derived from the alkylation of benzene with propylene or through other methods of aldehyde synthesis. The compound is also formed as a byproduct in the reduction of certain unsaturated compounds, such as cinnamyl alcohol.

In the fragrance industry, 3-phenyl-1-propanol is widely used due to its pleasant, floral odor, which resembles that of roses. It is a key ingredient in the formulation of perfumes and other scented products, such as soaps, lotions, and candles. The compound's ability to impart a natural floral note makes it particularly valuable in the creation of floral and oriental fragrance profiles.

Apart from its applications in the fragrance industry, 3-phenyl-1-propanol is used as a flavoring agent in the food industry. Its aromatic properties contribute to the flavor of various food products, including baked goods, beverages, and confectionery. Its relatively mild and pleasant taste makes it an attractive option for enhancing the flavor profile of food and drinks.

Additionally, 3-phenyl-1-propanol is used as an intermediate in the synthesis of other organic compounds, particularly in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries. Its structural characteristics enable its use in the creation of a wide range of molecules with various functional groups, which can serve as building blocks for more complex compounds.

3-Phenyl-1-propanol is considered to be of low toxicity, though as with many chemicals, exposure to high concentrations may lead to irritation or other adverse effects. In industrial settings, proper handling and safety precautions, such as wearing protective equipment, are recommended to minimize any risk of exposure.

In summary, 3-phenyl-1-propanol is a versatile compound that plays an important role in the fragrance, flavor, and chemical industries. Its pleasant aroma and utility as a building block for further chemical synthesis make it a valuable substance in a variety of commercial applications.

References

2023. Manganese-catalyzed cross-coupling of primary alcohols with biomass-derived ethanol for upgrading to linear alcohols under solvent-free conditions. Environmental Chemistry Letters.
DOI: 10.1007/s10311-023-01578-2

2024. Gut microbiota and fecal volatilome profile inspection in metabolically healthy and unhealthy obesity phenotypes. Journal of Endocrinological Investigation.
DOI: 10.1007/s40618-024-02379-2

2024. A pH-dependent shift of redox cofactor specificity in a benzyl alcohol dehydrogenase of aromatoleum aromaticum EbN1. Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology.
DOI: 10.1007/s00253-024-13225-z