1-Propanol or propyl alcohol is a colorless, flammable alcohol with a sweet, fruity odor. It is commonly used as a solvent and in personal care products. It is also used in the production of other chemicals.
| IUPAC Name | 1-Propanol |
| Molecular Formula | C3H8O |
| CAS Number | 71-23-8 |
| Synonyms | n-Propanol, Propyl alcohol, 1-Hydroxypropane |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C3H8O/c1-3-2/h3-4H,1-2H3 |
1-Propanol Properties
1-Propanol Molar Mass
The molar mass of 1-propanol is 60.09 g/mol. It is calculated by summing the atomic weights of all the atoms present in one molecule of 1-propanol. This value is used in various chemical calculations and for determining the amount of a substance present in a sample.
1-Propanol Boiling Point
1-Propanol has a boiling point of 97.2°C (207.0°F). The boiling point of a substance is the temperature at which it transitions from a liquid to a gas. The boiling point of n-propanol is an important property that is used to identify and purify the substance.
1-Propanol Melting Point
1-Propanol has a melting point of -126.5°C (-197.7°F). The melting point of a substance is the temperature at which it transitions from a solid to a liquid. Knowing the melting point of a substance can help identify it and also determine the conditions necessary to store it properly.
1-Propanol Density g/mL
The density of 1-propanol is 0.79 g/mL. Density is a measure of the mass per unit volume of a substance. The density of propyl alcohol is an important physical property that is used in various chemical calculations and in the design of storage and handling systems for the substance.
1-Propanol Molecular Weight
The molecular weight of 1-propanol is 60.09 g/mol. It is the sum of the atomic weights of all the atoms present in one molecule of propyl alcohol. This value is used in various chemical calculations, including determining the amount of a substance present in a sample.
1-Propanol Structure
n-Propanol is a straight-chain alcohol with a three-carbon chain and a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to the first carbon. Its molecular formula is C3H8O. The chemical structure of propyl alcohol plays a key role in its properties and reactivity, and is used in the design of syntheses and other chemical processes involving the substance.
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid |
| Specific Gravity | 0.79 g/mL |
| Color | Colorless |
| Odor | Sweet, fruity |
| Molar Mass | 60.09 g/mol |
| Density | 0.79 g/mL |
| Melting Point | -126.5°C |
| Boiling Point | 97.2°C |
| Flash Point | 11°C |
| Water Solubility | Miscible |
| Solubility | Soluble in most organic solvents |
| Vapour Pressure | 45.3 kPa at 20°C |
| Vapour Density | 2.04 (air = 1) |
| pKa | 15.9 |
| pH | 7.2 (1M solution) |
1-Propanol Safety and Hazards
Propyl alcohol is flammable and toxic if ingested. It can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Inhaling high concentrations can lead to dizziness, headache, and unconsciousness. It should be handled with caution and proper protective equipment, and stored in a well-ventilated area away from heat and ignition sources. First aid measures include flushing the eyes with water and seeking medical attention if ingested or inhaled in large amounts. It is important to always follow label instructions and observe proper safety procedures when working with propyl alcohol.
| Hazard Symbols | Flammable, Toxic |
| Safety Description | S24/25 – Avoid contact with skin and eyes. |
| UN IDs | UN1170 |
| HS Code | 2905.11.90 |
| Hazard Class | 3 |
| Packing Group | III |
| Toxicity | LD50 (oral, rat) = 710 mg/kg |
n-Propanol Synthesis Methods
Propyl alcohol can be synthesized through several methods, including the hydration of propene and the reduction of propionaldehyde. The hydration of propene involves the reaction of propene with water in the presence of an acidic catalyst, such as sulfuric acid, to produce propyl alcohol. The reduction of propionaldehyde involves the reaction of propionaldehyde with hydrogen in the presence of a reducing agent, such as sodium borohydride, to produce propyl alcohol. Additionally, propyl alcohol can also be synthesized through the fermentation of glucose or other carbohydrates. These methods can be adjusted to produce 1-propanol in large quantities for industrial use, but careful attention must be paid to the conditions and reactants used in the reaction to ensure product purity and safety.
1-Propanol Uses
Industries use propyl alcohol for its versatility in various applications. As a solvent, cosmetics, personal care products, and inks include propyl alcohol in their formulations. In the production of antifreeze, resins, and pharmaceuticals, 1-propanol serves as an intermediate. In the laboratory, 1-propanol substitutes for ethanol as a solvent for reagents and for the extraction and purification of organic compounds. The cleaning industry uses 1-propanol as an ingredient in cleaning solutions for hard surfaces and as a degreaser. Its antiseptic properties make 1-propanol useful as a surface sanitizer in hospitals and healthcare settings. The specific uses of propyl alcohol may vary, but its versatility makes it a valuable chemical in many industries.