2-Methyloxirane
[CAS# 38172-91-7]

Identification

• Classification: Chemical reagent >> Organic reagent >> Epoxide
• Name: 2-Methyloxirane
• Synonyms: prop-2-yn-1-ol
• Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₀O₂
• Molecular Weight: 114.14
• CAS Registry Number: 38172-91-7
• EC Number: 609-530-2
• SMILES: CC1CO1.C#CCO

Properties

• Density: 1.009 g/cm³ (20 °C)
• Boiling Point: 101.8 °C (101.3 kPa)

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS05;GHS07 Danger
• Risk Statements: H302-H318
• Safety Statements: P264-P264+P265-P270-P280-P301+P317-P305+P354+P338-P317-P330-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302

Discovery and Applications

2-Methyloxirane, also known as propylene oxide, is an organic compound that has gained significant attention for its role in chemical synthesis and industrial applications. Combined with prop-2-yn-1-ol, a simple propargylic alcohol, the mixture of these compounds represents a versatile pairing in organic chemistry, offering a wide range of reactivity due to the presence of both an oxirane ring and an alkyne group.

2-Methyloxirane is known for its highly reactive epoxide group, which can undergo ring-opening reactions with nucleophiles, leading to the formation of various alcohols and ethers. This compound is widely used in the production of polyethers and polyols, which are the building blocks of polyurethane foams. Its industrial production stems from the need for versatile chemicals that can form polymers with desired mechanical and chemical properties.

Prop-2-yn-1-ol, on the other hand, contains both an alcohol group and a terminal alkyne. This combination makes it a valuable reagent in organic synthesis, as the hydroxyl group can participate in hydrogen bonding and other reactions, while the alkyne can undergo coupling reactions, such as the popular "click" chemistry. When paired with 2-methyloxirane, prop-2-yn-1-ol can be involved in creating new materials, serving as a reactive building block in polymerization processes.

The combination of these two substances is particularly useful in producing specialty chemicals and advanced materials. The epoxide group in 2-methyloxirane reacts readily with nucleophiles, while the alkyne in prop-2-yn-1-ol opens pathways for further chemical modifications. This makes the mixture valuable in fine chemical production, where complex molecular architectures are required, such as in pharmaceuticals or advanced coatings.

The use of 2-methyloxirane and prop-2-yn-1-ol is also prevalent in the development of resins and adhesives. The reactive sites in both compounds allow for strong cross-linking and polymer formation, resulting in materials with excellent mechanical strength and durability. These properties are essential in industries like aerospace, automotive, and construction, where performance under stress and environmental conditions is crucial.

Overall, the combination of 2-methyloxirane and prop-2-yn-1-ol offers a versatile platform for chemical innovation, contributing to advances in polymer chemistry, materials science, and industrial manufacturing.

References

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