O-Phthalaldehyde (OPA) CAS 643-79-8: A Key Chemical Intermediate
Discover the versatile applications and benefits of O-Phthalaldehyde, a critical compound in modern healthcare and chemical synthesis.
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O-Phthalaldehyde
O-Phthalaldehyde, identified by CAS number 643-79-8, is a vital organic compound renowned for its potent disinfectant properties and its essential role as an intermediate in various chemical syntheses. Its chemical formula, C8H6O2, and molecular weight of 134.134 g/mol define its structure as a benzene-1,2-dicarbaldehyde.
- O-Phthalaldehyde is a premier high-level disinfectant for medical devices, particularly effective for reprocessing heat-sensitive semi-critical instruments like endoscopes, respiratory therapy equipment, and anesthesia devices.
- As a crucial organic intermediate, OPA serves as a building block in the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds, underscoring its importance in pharmaceutical and fine chemical manufacturing.
- This compound acts as a sensitive fluorogenic reagent in the analysis of amino acids and amines, utilized in techniques such as capillary electrophoresis and chromatography for precise detection.
- The advantages of OPA over traditional disinfectants like glutaraldehyde include faster action, broader-spectrum efficacy, and enhanced safety profile, featuring low toxicity and minimal irritation, making it a preferred choice in healthcare settings.
Advantages of O-Phthalaldehyde
Enhanced Efficacy and Speed
The advantages of OPA over glutaraldehyde are significant, offering rapid disinfection times and a broad-spectrum bactericidal efficacy, crucial for efficient medical instrument reprocessing.
Improved Safety Profile
Compared to glutaraldehyde, OPA exhibits low toxicity to humans, with no irritating odor and no OSHA allowable exposure limits, contributing to a safer working environment.
Versatile Chemical Intermediate
O-Phthalaldehyde (OPA) CAS 643-79-8 is a versatile organic intermediate used in the synthesis of complex molecules, finding applications in pharmaceuticals and advanced materials.
Key Applications
Medical Device Disinfection
O-Phthalaldehyde disinfectant is primarily used for high-level disinfection of medical devices, ensuring patient safety by eliminating pathogens from reusable instruments.
Pharmaceutical Synthesis
This compound is a valuable organic intermediate for synthesis, enabling the creation of advanced pharmaceutical compounds and heterocyclic structures.
Biochemical Analysis
In biochemical laboratories, phthalaldehyde CAS 643-79-8 serves as an amino acid analysis reagent, facilitating sensitive detection and quantification of biological molecules.
Chemical Research and Development
Its unique reactivity makes OPA a subject of interest in chemical research and development, exploring new synthetic pathways and material properties.