Propionaldehyde: Properties, Chemical Reactions, Uses, and Safety Precautions

Propionaldehyde

Propionaldehyde, also known as propanal, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C3H6O

Propionaldehyde, also known as propanal, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C3H6O. It is classified as an aldehyde, which means it contains a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to at least one hydrogen atom.

Physical Properties:
– Molecular weight: 58.08 g/mol
– Density: 0.803 g/cm³
– Boiling point: 48.4°C
– Melting point: -81.5°C
– Color: Colorless to pale yellow liquid

Chemical Properties:
1. Oxidation: Propionaldehyde can be oxidized to form propionic acid (C3H6O2) when reacted with an oxidizing agent like potassium permanganate (KMnO4) or chromic acid (H2CrO4).
C3H6O + [O] → C3H6O2

2. Cannizzaro Reaction: Under certain conditions, propionaldehyde can undergo a self-reduction and disproportionation reaction called the Cannizzaro reaction, yielding both propionic acid and propanol.
2 C3H6O + 2 NaOH → C3H6O2 + C3H7OH

3. Nucleophilic Addition: Propionaldehyde can undergo nucleophilic additions, where a nucleophile (electron-rich species) reacts with the carbonyl carbon to form a new bond.
For example, when treated with sodium bisulfite (NaHSO3) in the presence of water, propionaldehyde forms a bisulfite adduct.
C3H2O + NaHSO3 + H2O → C3H6O3SNa

4. Aldol Condensation: Propionaldehyde can undergo aldol condensation, where two molecules of propionaldehyde undergo a self-condensation reaction in the presence of an acid or base catalyst, producing a β-hydroxyaldehyde or β-hydroxyketone.
2 C3H6O → C6H12O2 + H2O

Uses:
– Chemical intermediate: Propionaldehyde is used as a raw material in the production of various chemicals, such as butyl alcohol, propionic acid, and n-propanol.
– Flavor and fragrance industry: It is utilized to enhance flavors and aromas, particularly in the production of butter, coffee, and baked goods.
– Polymer synthesis: Propionaldehyde is incorporated into the production of polymers like propionaldehyde diethyl acetal, which finds applications as solvents and plasticizers.
– Pharmaceuticals: It can be utilized as an intermediate in the synthesis of some pharmaceutical drugs and derivatives.

Safety Precautions:
Propionaldehyde is highly flammable and should be handled with care. It can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract, so proper ventilation and personal protective equipment should be used when working with this compound. It is always important to review the safety data sheet (SDS) provided by the manufacturer for any specific safety considerations.

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