Phenylpropanol
[CAS# 1335-12-2]

Identification

• Classification: Pharmaceutical intermediate >> Heterocyclic compound intermediate >> Pyrimidine compound >> Alcohol
• Name: Phenylpropanol
• Synonyms: W288500_Aldrich; 3-Phenyl-Propan-(1)-Ol; Inchi=1/C9h12o/C10-8-4-7-9-5-2-1-3-6-9/H1-3,5-6,10H,4,7-8H
• Molecular Formula: C₉H₁₂O
• Molecular Weight: 136.19
• CAS Registry Number: 1335-12-2
• EC Number: 215-621-4
• SMILES: C1=C(C=CC=C1)CCCO

Properties

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

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

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Hazard Statements: H315-H319
• Precautionary 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
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315

Discovory and Applicatios

Phenylpropanol, also known as 1-phenylpropan-2-ol, is an organic compound with the molecular formula C9H12O. It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a floral, pleasant odor and is classified as a secondary alcohol. Phenylpropanol is widely used in the fragrance industry due to its aromatic properties and is also employed in the synthesis of various chemical compounds.

The discovery of phenylpropanol can be traced back to the early 20th century, as chemists sought to explore and develop compounds with aromatic characteristics. It is commonly derived from natural sources such as the essential oils of flowers and is often synthesized through various chemical routes. Its primary structural feature is the phenyl group attached to a propanol backbone, which contributes to its unique chemical reactivity and odor profile.

Phenylpropanol has several key applications, particularly in the fragrance and flavoring industries. It is commonly used as a component in perfumes, where it imparts a pleasant floral or rose-like scent. The compound is often included in both fine fragrances and household products such as soaps, detergents, and air fresheners. Its pleasant aroma makes it an essential ingredient in creating complex fragrance compositions, where it can serve as a top or middle note.

In addition to its use in fragrances, phenylpropanol is employed in the production of certain pharmaceutical and chemical products. It serves as an intermediate in the synthesis of compounds such as ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, which are important in the production of medications used to treat conditions such as colds and allergies. These compounds are derived from phenylpropanol through chemical transformations, and the synthesis of phenylpropanol is a crucial step in their production.

Furthermore, phenylpropanol has been studied for its potential antimicrobial properties. Research has shown that it possesses some degree of activity against a range of microorganisms, making it of interest for use in antimicrobial formulations. However, its primary applications remain in the fragrance and pharmaceutical industries.

In summary, phenylpropanol is a versatile compound with significant applications in the fragrance, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries. Its pleasant aroma and reactivity make it a valuable ingredient in fragrance formulations and a precursor in the synthesis of important pharmaceutical compounds.

References

Dai et al.. Visible-light-mediated conversion of alcohols to halides, Nature Chemistry, 2011