Phenylacetic acid, also known as benzeneacetic acid, is an organic compound with a phenyl group attached to an acetic acid moiety. It is a white to yellowish crystalline solid with a distinctive honey-like odor. This aromatic carboxylic acid is widely used in the fragrance, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries. Due to its potential hazards, proper handling and safety measures are essential. This article explores the properties, applications, hazards, and safe handling practices of benzeneacetic acid.
What is Phenylacetic Acid?
Phenylacetic acid is a naturally occurring compound found in certain fruits, honey, and plant resins. It is also synthetically produced for industrial and pharmaceutical applications. Its chemical structure consists of a benzene ring linked to an acetic acid group, making it a key intermediate in organic synthesis.
Chemical Properties
- Molecular Formula: C₈H₈O₂
- Molar Mass: 136.15 g/mol
- Appearance: White to yellowish crystalline solid
- Odor: Honey-like, pungent
- Density: 1.08 g/cm³ at 20°C
- Melting Point: 76-78°C
- Boiling Point: 265°C
- Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; highly soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and ether
Physical States
Phenylacetic acid exists as a solid at room temperature and is only slightly soluble in water. It dissolves well in organic solvents such as alcohols, ethers, and chloroform.
Phenylacetic Acid vs. Other Aromatic Acids
| Property | Phenylacetic Acid (C₈H₈O₂) | Benzoic Acid (C₇H₆O₂) | Cinnamic Acid (C₉H₈O₂) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Molecular Weight | 136.15 g/mol | 122.12 g/mol | 148.16 g/mol |
| Melting Point | 76-78°C | 122°C | 133°C |
| Boiling Point | 265°C | 249°C | 300°C |
| Odor | Honey-like | Odorless | Balsamic odor |
| Solubility in Water | Slightly soluble | Slightly soluble | Slightly soluble |
Uses of Phenylacetic Acid
1. Industrial Applications
- Fragrance Industry: Used in the production of perfumes due to its pleasant honey-like scent.
- Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: A key precursor in synthesizing various pharmaceuticals, including penicillin G.
2. Laboratory and Chemical Research
- Organic Synthesis: Functions as an intermediate in the synthesis of complex organic molecules.
- Polymer and Resin Production: Involved in the creation of resins and coatings used in industrial applications.
3. Medical and Pharmaceutical Use
- Urea Cycle Disorders Treatment: The sodium salt of benzeneacetic acid, sodium phenylacetate, is used to help remove excess nitrogen from the body in patients with urea cycle disorders.
💡 Curious about the uses of phenylacetic acid? Eureka Technical Q&A provides expert insights into its applications in pharmaceuticals, fragrance production, and organic synthesis, helping you understand its benefits and industrial significance.
Generate Ideas with Eureka AI
Get instant, smart ideas, solutions and spark creativity with Eureka AI. Generate professional answers in a few seconds.
Hazards and Safety Considerations
1. Health Hazards
- Skin and Eye Irritation: Direct contact can cause irritation and redness.
- Respiratory Irritation: Inhalation of dust or vapors may lead to coughing, sore throat, and breathing difficulties.
- Ingestion Risks: Swallowing phenylacetic acid can cause gastrointestinal discomfort and toxicity if consumed in large quantities.
2. Flammability
- Combustible: C₈H₈O₂ can burn under certain conditions, producing irritating fumes.
- Fire Hazard: Can emit toxic gases when exposed to flames or high temperatures.
3. Reactivity
- Reaction with Strong Oxidizers: May lead to hazardous reactions, releasing heat and gases.
- Decomposition upon Heating: Emits irritating or toxic fumes when heated to decomposition.
Safe Handling and Storage Practices
1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Eye Protection: Wear safety goggles or face shields to prevent eye exposure.
- Skin Protection: Use chemical-resistant gloves and protective clothing.
- Respiratory Protection: Ensure adequate ventilation or wear a respirator in confined areas.
2. Engineering Controls
- Ventilation: Use fume hoods or proper ventilation systems to minimize vapor inhalation.
- Spill Containment: Implement containment measures for accidental spills.
3. Storage Guidelines
- Container Selection: Store in tightly sealed, corrosion-resistant containers.
- Environmental Conditions: Keep in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from strong oxidizers and bases.
4. Emergency Procedures
- First Aid: In case of contact, rinse affected areas with plenty of water and seek medical attention if necessary.
- Fire Response: Use dry chemical powder, carbon dioxide, or foam to extinguish fires involving phenylacetic acid.
FAQs About Phenylacetic Acid
1. What is phenylacetic acid used for?
C₈H₈O₂ is used in the fragrance industry for its honey-like scent, in pharmaceuticals as a precursor for drug synthesis, and in organic chemistry as a building block for complex compounds.
2. Is phenylacetic acid dangerous?
While industries widely use C₈H₈O₂, it can cause skin and respiratory irritation, requiring proper safety precautions.
3. How should phenylacetic acid be stored?
Store it in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from strong oxidizers and bases.
4. Can phenylacetic acid catch fire?
Yes, it is combustible and can produce toxic fumes when exposed to fire. Proper storage and handling are necessary to reduce fire risks.
5. What should I do in case of exposure to phenylacetic acid?
Immediately rinse affected areas with plenty of water and seek medical attention if symptoms persist. Inhalation exposure requires moving to fresh air and seeking medical care if breathing difficulties arise.
Conclusion
Phenylacetic acid is a versatile compound used in fragrance, pharmaceuticals, and organic synthesis. While it offers numerous benefits, it also poses health and safety risks that require proper handling, storage, and protective measures. By following safety protocols, industries and laboratories can use C₈H₈O₂ effectively while minimizing potential hazards.
To get detailed scientific explanations of Phenylacetic Acid, try Patsnap Eureka.
