2-(trans-4-Propylcyclohexyl)-1,3-Propanediol draws attention as a specialty chemical used in niche applications in material science and organic synthesis. Its structure features a cyclohexyl core substituted in the trans-4 position with a propyl chain and flanked by a propanediol side chain. Often encountered by chemical engineers working in polymer design or liquid crystal research, the compound shows up in the market in various forms including solid flakes, crystalline powders, and pearls. For users focused on purity and handling, flakes and pearls allow for easier weighing and dissolution compared to dense solids or sticky crystalline masses. Practical use in a lab often means handling this material with gloves, goggles, and a fume hood due to its chemical nature, despite it lacking an aggressive odor or volatility profile.
A precise look reveals a colorless to slightly white solid with a moderate density, typically around 1.05 to 1.1 g/cm3. This density places it in line with similar diols and cyclohexyl derivatives, confirming correct synthesis when doing QC by basic physical checks. The melting point sits high enough to keep it stable at room temperature, yet not so high as to complicate material processing on manufacturing lines. In powdered form, it flows acceptably well for bench-scale glassware transfers but can require anti-caking agents or desiccators for long-term storage. Its molecular formula is C12H24O2, which is consistent across technical documentation and product data sheets. The structure, bearing the diol functionality, offers opportunity for hydrogen bonding and modifications, key to its role as a building block in specialty polymer synthesis and preparation of liquid crystal intermediates. It dissolves in many organic solvents including alcohols, ethers, and chlorinated solvents, but remains notably insoluble in water, useful as a separation point in analytical chemistry labs.
This compound serves as a raw material in the formation of advanced polymers, additives, and liquid crystals. Its unique arrangement of hydroxyl groups creates reactivity with isocyanates, acids, and a range of cross-linkers, allowing chemical engineers to design molecules for flexible displays or special coatings. In the context of liquid crystal technology, its rigid cyclohexyl and propyl assemblage brings order and stability to mesophases, directly impacting display performance and longevity. Companies producing such specialty materials rely on quality supply chains and sharp analytical oversight as small deviations in purity, particle size, or polymorph type can lead to mismatched processing conditions, equipment fouling, or off-spec product. In the polymer world, the smooth integration of this molecule lets researchers introduce specific mechanical and optical properties to their final product, critical for industries striving for better material performance.
Material importers, exporters, and logistics staff must track the HS Code for 2-(trans-4-Propylcyclohexyl)-1,3-Propanediol accurately to avoid customs delays and ensure compliance. The code typically follows the framework set for organic chemicals and intermediate compounds, often found under 2906.29 or a related subcategory, relating to cyclohexanol derivatives. Specification sheets for the compound detail not only physical constants but also impurity profiles, moisture content, and particle size distribution — scrutiny that grows tighter along with intended end use. Samples often include batch-specific certificates of analysis. Discussion on specific forms, whether flakes, crystals, pearls, powder, or liquid solution, forms a routine part of procurement with end users requesting tailored supply depending on process needs. Storage instructions flag the need for cool, dry conditions, sealed in containers to avoid clumping or hydrolysis.
Safety profiles for 2-(trans-4-Propylcyclohexyl)-1,3-Propanediol point toward low acute toxicity but still require respect in laboratory and industrial settings. Chemical hygiene plans prescribe proper protective equipment and spill control, reflecting findings from animal toxicity studies and general bulk diol handling. Although less hazardous compared to many aromatic or halogenated compounds, the compound can cause mild irritation to skin and mucus membranes, so accidental contact should prompt immediate washing. Waste disposal regulations classify spills and waste as organic residues, requiring segregation from aqueous and strongly oxidizing wastes. Unlike volatile organic solvents, loss through evaporation in poorly ventilated rooms is not a primary concern, but proper labeling and hazard communication remain key. In the event of fire, the material tends to decompose to carbon oxides, so it’s handled away from ignition sources or heat. Many manufacturing and research sites emphasize continual training and review of SDS information with each new batch to maintain workplace safety and compliance with environmental laws.
The molecular structure, anchored by the trans-4-propyl substitution on the cyclohexyl ring, gives 2-(trans-4-Propylcyclohexyl)-1,3-Propanediol its unique physical and reactivity fingerprints. Chemists favor the trans configuration as it diminishes steric crowding and affects how polymers or liquid crystal phases align. This translates into real profits for companies invested in display technologies or specialty resins, as end-product performance relies heavily on such microscopic alignments. The functional diol groups present opportunities for custom cross-linking and surface modification, allowing scientists to tune chemical and mechanical resistance for finished goods. In academic research, the availability of pure samples supports the development of new synthetic techniques and the exploration of structure-property relationships, essential for progress in material science. Stability across a range of temperatures and under mild oxidative conditions means the compound is robust enough for large-scale synthesis and reproducible results across different supply batches.
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