3,4,5-Trimethoxybenzaldehyde: Properties, Applications, and Safety Concerns

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Discover the properties, applications, and safety concerns of 3,4,5-Trimethoxybenzaldehyde. Learn about its use in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries.

Introduction

3,4,5-Trimethoxybenzaldehyde, also known as TMB, is a white crystalline compound that is widely used in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries. This organic compound is derived from vanillin, a flavoring agent that is commonly used in the food industry. TMB is a versatile compound that has a wide range of applications, including as a building block for the synthesis of various drugs, dyes, and agrochemicals. In this article, we will explore the properties, applications, and safety concerns of 3,4,5-Trimethoxybenzaldehyde.

Properties of 3,4,5-Trimethoxybenzaldehyde

TMB has a molecular formula of C10H12O4 and a molecular weight of 196.2 g/mol. It has a melting point of 105-107 °C and a boiling point of 320-324 °C. TMB is slightly soluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, methanol, and acetone. The compound has a sweet, floral odor and is stable under normal conditions.

Applications of 3,4,5-Trimethoxybenzaldehyde

Pharmaceutical Industry

TMB is an important building block in the synthesis of various drugs, including antitumor agents, antihypertensive agents, and antimicrobial agents. It is also used in the synthesis of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen.

Chemical Industry

TMB is used as an intermediate in the production of dyes and agrochemicals. It is used to synthesize dyes such as acid dyes, disperse dyes, and reactive dyes. In the agrochemical industry, TMB is used as a building block for the synthesis of herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides.

Other Applications

TMB is used as a flavoring agent in the food industry. It is also used as a fragrance ingredient in the cosmetic industry.

Safety Concerns

While TMB is a useful compound, it is important to handle it with care due to its potential health hazards. TMB may cause skin and eye irritation upon contact. Ingestion or inhalation of TMB may cause nausea, headache, dizziness, and respiratory irritation. Prolonged exposure to TMB may cause liver and kidney damage. Therefore, it is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment when handling TMB and to follow proper handling and disposal procedures.

FAQs

Q1. What are the other names of 3,4,5-Trimethoxybenzaldehyde?

A1. 3,4,5-Trimethoxybenzaldehyde is also known as TMB, Veratraldehyde trimethyl ether, and 5-(2,3,4-Trimethoxybenzylidene)rhodanine.

Q2. What is TMB used for in the pharmaceutical industry?

A2. TMB is used as a building block in the synthesis of various drugs, including antitumor agents, antihypertensive agents, and antimicrobial agents.