2-(Phenylmethoxy)-1,3-propanediol sits among the lesser-known compounds in industrial and research settings, but it offers some striking properties for anyone working closely with chemicals. Often recognized by its benzyl-protected diol structure, this compound stands as a handy intermediate in special synthetic routes and plays into several vital chemical transformations. Its systematic chemical recognition comes from the combination of a propanediol backbone and a phenylmethoxy substituent. These features open a door to unique stability and reactivity traits, which is precisely what researchers and manufacturers look for during complex synthesis and materials modification.
The molecular formula, C10H14O3, tells part of the story. Built from a three-carbon chain, two hydroxyl groups positioned at carbons 1 and 3, and an oxygen bridge linking a phenylmethyl (benzyl) group to carbon 2, this structure offers a blend of hydrophilic and hydrophobic zones. The IUPAC name leaves no ambiguity for chemists: 2-(phenylmethoxy)propane-1,3-diol. The diagram would show a benzyl ether attached at the center carbon of the diol, making it easy to identify in a laboratory setting. With a molecular weight of about 182.22 g/mol, the compound presents a relatively moderate mass — useful during calculations and inventories when scaling up reactions or shipments.
In pure form, 2-(phenylmethoxy)-1,3-propanediol can show up as white to off-white solid, commonly encountered as crystalline flakes or fine powder. These crystals or powders flow easily, a bonus both for bench chemists and for larger operations moving bigger batches. Solubility leans toward moderate in water but is much better in organic solvents like ethanol, methanol, or ether—a property that fits neatly with the type of reactions or product stages that often need purification or adjustment. Density sits around 1.18-1.24 g/cm³ at room temperature, so it doesn't differ much from other similar organic compounds. Melting point typically ranges from 61 to 67°C, a touchstone for purity checks and handling decisions, since heat reactivity can alter storage and transport needs.
Scientists and industry partners expect tight specifications. Purity is often over 98%, sometimes higher if requested. Loss on drying, measured under vacuum over desiccant, stays below 0.5%. Heavy metal content remains below 10 ppm, an important assurance for anyone working in pharmaceuticals or fine chemicals. Residual solvents fall within strict regulatory limits. Granular forms, pearls, and flakes all test for similar variables, though bulk shipments may receive extra screening for particle size and free-flowing qualities. Every batch comes with documentation specifying content, moisture, melting range, molecular weight, and any irregularities. This data is truly vital during audits or safety inquiries, since even small departures in specifications challenge downstream performance and consistency.
For customs and trade, the Harmonized System (HS) Code plays a big part. In most contexts, 2-(phenylmethoxy)-1,3-propanediol sits under HS Code 2906.19, which covers ether derivatives with other oxygen functions. Regulations demand clear documentation in cross-border shipping, mainly since secondary uses in synthetic routes occasionally overlap with pharmaceutical or specialty chemical zones. Anyone moving this compound across regions will run into specific import or export rules, especially when volumes shift from research scale to commercial production.
Chemical properties matter for anyone planning transformations or new formulations. The benzyl ether group resists most neutral and basic hydrolysis conditions but will cleave under strong acids or catalytic hydrogenation. Diol positions function readily in esterification, oxidation, or protective group strategies, cementing the compound's value in multistep organic syntheses. In practical work, both academic labs and manufacturing lines look for reliability and controllability, which 2-(phenylmethoxy)-1,3-propanediol manages through its balanced reactivity and relative shelf-stability.
Powder and flake forms dominate for research and pilot-scale users, offering easy dispersion and weighing. Pearls show up in large-scale handling or automated feeders, improving dosing consistency for plant operations. Solutions made in compatible solvents get used in direct application or preparative work, especially when downstream processes need a fast, measured dose. Liquids are rare since the compound usually exists solid at standard conditions, but warm conditions or special blends might yield a syrupy mix depending on chosen solvents and concentrations. Practical storage stays in airtight containers, shaded away from direct sunlight, and set in cool, dry spaces to fend off degradation.
Safety demands honest, up-front detail. 2-(phenylmethoxy)-1,3-propanediol carries some health risk if handled carelessly. Direct contact with skin, eyes, or inhalation of dust may irritate, with more severe reactions possible for sensitive individuals. Long-term toxicity data runs scarce, but as a chemical raw material, best practice expects gloves, goggles, and dust control. Unlike many raw components with systemic toxicity, this compound does not rank as a known carcinogen or proven mutagen, though standard hazard classifications mark it as harmful (Xn) in inventory tracking systems. Keep in mind that large-scale storage requires good ventilation, away from strong oxidizers or acids. Spills clean up easily with inert absorbents, followed by proper disposal according to environmental and site-specific guidelines.
Raw material buyers watch for reliability in supply, batch consistency, and compliance with local and global laws. Suppliers get tracked not only for price, but for rigorous quality assurance, complete documentation, certificates of analysis, and MSDS inclusion for every purchase. Most demand stems from specialty chemicals, pharmaceutical intermediate development, resin modification, and selected performance materials used in coatings, adhesives, or elastomers. Research institutions use the compound in graduate labs or fine-chemical synthesis, where access to unique building blocks speeds up experimentation. Every part of the chain—from procurement to end use—needs a clean and traceable process, with robust checks on incoming molecular identity and impurity content.
Anyone trying to work responsibly with 2-(phenylmethoxy)-1,3-propanediol should start with the right training and transparent reporting. Good laboratory practice, closed-loop storage, personal protection, careful waste management, and timely reporting of handling incidents stand out as the tools that matter most. In mature supply chains, traceability from raw material origin to end product helps ensure both customer trust and public health. Responsible disposal follows local environmental requirements; down-the-drain disposal rarely meets legal standards. Reclaimed product recycling or destruction via certified third-party waste handlers closes the loop while reducing environmental impact. Every time someone picks up a new batch or modifies an existing process, a thorough safety review and risk assessment help guard against problems and bring sustained value to daily users.
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