2-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol stands out in the chemistry world thanks to its unique structure and diverse uses. Seen as a solid at room temperature, this compound reveals itself in forms like flakes, powder, or sometimes fine crystals. Many chemical producers count on this diol as a core ingredient for synthesis, especially when purity and consistent behavior matter. Commonly referenced by the HS Code that relates to alcohols, this substance carries the molecular formula C9H12O2. The backbone structure — a propanediol chain with a phenyl group attached to the second carbon — plays a big role in its reactivity, giving it physical and chemical traits that other diols simply don’t match.
Anyone familiar with laboratory work will immediately notice the dense, grainy feel of 2-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol powder. It doesn’t flow like some lightweight solids; it tends to clump together thanks to intermolecular forces between the diol groups. The substance often appears as off-white flakes, although some batches have a pearly sheen or crystallize into small, slightly shiny grains. If left exposed to air, the powder absorbs little moisture, but under humid conditions, stickiness becomes noticeable. Chemists appreciate the way this diol dissolves in warm solvents. Water doesn’t fully break it apart, but organic materials like ethanol and acetone work quickly, leading to clear, stable solutions.
MolWeight for 2-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol clocks in at about 152.19 g/mol. With a phenyl ring sitting firmly on the second carbon and two hydroxyl groups on the propanediol chain, the molecule bridges water- and fat-friendly chemistries. This molecular build allows reactivity with acids, but it stays stable in dry storage. In solid form, density typically hovers between 1.12 and 1.18 g/cm³, depending on degree of crystallinity and purity. Melting points have shown slight variance, usually falling between 73°C and 76°C, while decomposition starts at much higher temperatures, generally over 200°C. Such thermal stability makes it useful when processing requires moderate heat, removing the worry of early breakdown or dangerous fumes.
This chemical’s low toxicity and easy handling give it a reputation for safety — within reason. As with most organic diols, direct contact should be minimized. Dust particles can irritate skin and eyes, and inhaling fine powder leads to respiratory discomfort, but it doesn’t approach the risk level of harsh oxidizers or strong acids. In storage, 2-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol resists spontaneous degradation, avoiding hazardous byproducts or odor issues. Spillage is rarely an emergency, yet established practices dictate prompt cleanup and avoidance of drains, since even low-toxicity chemicals can burden water treatment systems. When heated in bulk, vapors can irritate, but flammability stays low unless mixed with intense heat or strong oxidizers.
Manufacturers source key precursors for this compound from well-established petrochemical feedstocks, tapping into benzene derivatives and short-chain diols. Processing, purification, and drying steps lock in the intended properties, whether the end-product heads for pharmaceuticals, specialty resins, or advanced coatings. Purity grades matter: technical versions sometimes include traces of related alcohols, while pharmaceutical batches undergo more stringent filtration and testing. Typically, the finished material reaches users in airtight drums or moisture-resistant bags, each labeled sharply with warning and handling codes for easy recognition by handlers at every stage. Tracking origin via HS Code remains essential for customs clarity and regulatory compliance, especially with growing scrutiny on chemical imports and environmental records.
Regulatory data puts 2-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol in the low-to-moderate danger class, mainly driven by dust particle risk and long-term environmental persistence. No evidence ties it to immediate harmful effects at normal exposure levels, but as a chemical, gloves and masks — plus good ventilation — should never be skipped. Environmental scientists worry about potential for buildup in water if factories discharge untreated waste; that’s why brands invest in solvent recovery and water purification tech. Transport falls under standard hazardous goods rules due to small fire risks and reactivity with some storage chemicals, making training and documentation just as important as product quality itself. Responsible disposal guarantees unwanted product doesn't linger in landfills or groundwater, closing the loop and addressing safety for all.
Industry leans on this diol for its stable backbone and low reactivity under most conditions. Paints, resins, and adhesives reap the benefits of its solubility and cross-linking behavior. Research labs explore it as a chiral building block, since small adjustments in side chains help form molecules used in medicine. Polymer producers add it to specialty plastics, driving better flexibility and weather resistance. Each end-use scenario circles back to the structure: the mix of aromatic and aliphatic sections creates a rare blend of toughness and chemical friendliness. Pharmacies care about these properties when 2-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol steps in as an intermediate for active molecules, knowing impurities must stay low and batch-to-batch behavior matters for patient safety. These technical demands trickle down through regulations, supplier audits, and consumer awareness, shaping a world where chemistry and responsibility meet head-on.
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