Guaiacol (CAS – 90-05-1)
Overview of Guaiacol
Guaiacol, also known as 2-Methoxyphenol, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C₇H₈O₂. It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a characteristic smoky odor. Guaiacol is widely recognized as a precursor in synthesizing various aromatic compounds and as a key ingredient in flavoring, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications.
With a CAS number of 90-05-1, Guaiacol is an essential intermediate in multiple industries, particularly in the production of vanillin and as an antioxidant in food and beverage formulations. Its unique chemical properties make it a valuable stabilizing agent and a versatile component in industrial processing.
General Information
Sr.No. | Parameter | Specification |
---|
1 | Appearance | Clear colorless to yellowish liquid |
2 | % Purity (By G.C) | 99.5% min |
3 | % Water | Not more than 0.5% w/w |
4 | Specific Gravity | Between 1.125 and 1.14 at 250 C |
5 | Total Impurities | <0.5% |
Key Properties
- Flavor & Fragrance Applications:
Commonly used as a flavoring agent in the food and beverage industry, particularly in smoke flavoring, vanilla synthesis, and spice formulations. It is also utilized in perfume compositions for its warm, woody, and smoky notes.
- Pharmaceutical Applications:
Serves as a precursor in the synthesis of cough expectorants, antiseptics, and local anesthetics. It plays a role in the formulation of guaifenesin, a widely used cough suppressant.
- Antioxidant & Preservative Functions:
Exhibits antioxidant activity, protecting certain organic compounds from oxidative degradation. It is used in resin stabilization and as a preservative in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations.
- Chemical Reactivity & Industrial Use:
Acts as an intermediate in organic synthesis, contributing to the production of synthetic flavors, pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and polymer stabilizers. It also reacts with free radicals, making it useful in the stabilization of resins, adhesives, and industrial coatings.
- Polymerization Inhibition:
Functions as a polymerization inhibitor, preventing unwanted polymer formation in industrial applications such as resins, plastics, and coatings.
- Thermal & Chemical Stability:
Maintains stability at moderate temperatures but requires protection from excessive heat and exposure to air, as oxidation may lead to degradation and discoloration.
Applications of Guaiacol (CAS – 90-05-1)
Guaiacol (CAS – 90-05-1) is a highly versatile compound, making it valuable across multiple industries. Its primary applications include:
- Precursor for Vanillin Production
Guaiacol (CAS—90-05-1) is a primary raw material in the industrial synthesis of vanillin, one of the most widely used flavoring agents. By undergoing selective oxidation and methylation, Guaiacol enables the large-scale production of synthetic vanillin, ensuring a cost-effective and sustainable supply for the food and beverage industry.
- Pharmaceutical Applications
Guaiacol is essential in pharmaceutical formulations, particularly expectorants and antiseptic medications. Its antibacterial and expectorant properties help treat respiratory conditions such as cough and bronchitis. Additionally, Guaiacol derivatives are used in pain relief and anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Food and Beverage Additive
In the food industry, Guaiacol (CAS—90-05-1) is a key flavoring agent, imparting a smoky and spicy aroma. It is commonly found in smoked meats, coffee, and whiskey, enhancing the depth of flavor profiles. Due to its antioxidant properties, Guaiacol also helps preserve food products by inhibiting oxidation-induced spoilage.
- Intermediate in Agrochemical Synthesis
Guaiacol is an intermediate in producing agrochemicals, including pesticides and herbicides. Its chemical stability and reactivity make it a crucial building block in synthesizing active ingredients for agricultural applications, ensuring effective pest and weed control.
- Cosmetic and Personal Care Products
Due to its aromatic nature and antioxidant properties, Guaiacol (CAS – 90-05-1) is used to formulate fragrances, skin care products, and hair care treatments. It helps stabilize formulations and prolong the shelf life of active ingredients, maintaining product efficacy over time.
Benefits of Using Guaiacol (CAS – 90-05-1)
Guaiacol offers several advantages that make it a preferred choice across industries. The key benefits include:
- Key Precursor in Vanillin Synthesis:
Guaiacol (CAS – 90-05-1) plays a crucial role in vanillin production, supporting the global demand for flavoring agents in food and beverages.
- High Chemical Stability:
Guaiacol is chemically stable under various conditions, ensuring its effectiveness in industrial applications and reducing the risk of degradation.
- Versatile Applications:
With applications in food, pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and personal care products, Guaiacol is a highly versatile compound that enhances performance across multiple sectors.
- Antioxidant and Preservative Properties:
Guaiacol (CAS – 90-05-1) helps prevent oxidation in food and beverages, ensuring extended shelf life and preserving flavor integrity.
- Cost-Effective Solution:
Guaiacol is an efficient raw material in numerous chemical processes, contributing to cost-effective production strategies in industrial applications.
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