Exploring the Chemical Properties and Synthesis of Antioxidant CA
Antioxidant CA, chemically identified as 1,1,3-Tris(2-methyl-4-hydroxy-5-tert-butylphenyl)butane and bearing the CAS number 1843-03-4, is a complex organic molecule with a structure meticulously designed for optimal antioxidant activity. Understanding its chemical properties is key to appreciating its broad utility in safeguarding materials from oxidative degradation.
The molecular formula for Antioxidant CA is C37H52O3, with a molecular weight of approximately 544.81 g/mol. Its structure is characterized by a central butane backbone to which three substituted phenol groups are attached. Each phenol ring features a hydroxyl (-OH) group, which is the active site for radical scavenging, and two bulky tert-butyl groups. These tert-butyl groups are positioned strategically to provide steric hindrance around the hydroxyl group. This hindrance is crucial for two main reasons: it stabilizes the phenoxy radical formed after hydrogen donation, preventing it from initiating further degradation, and it contributes to the molecule's high thermal stability and low volatility.
The physical form of Antioxidant CA is typically a white to off-white powder. Its low solubility in water is characteristic of such high molecular weight organic compounds, but it exhibits good solubility in various organic solvents like acetone, ethanol, and ethyl acetate. This solubility profile is important for its incorporation into polymer matrices and other organic systems.
From a synthesis perspective, the production of Antioxidant CA generally involves the alkylation of phenols with isobutylene, followed by a condensation reaction with crotonaldehyde or similar precursors. The precise control of reaction conditions, including temperature, pressure, and catalyst selection, is essential to achieve the desired structure and high purity. Manufacturers focus on optimizing these processes to ensure consistent product quality, high assay values (often 99% or higher), and minimal byproducts. The synthesis pathway is designed to yield a molecule with inherent stability and effectiveness as a radical scavenger.
The combination of its phenolic hydroxyl groups for radical scavenging and the steric protection offered by the tert-butyl groups makes Antioxidant CA an exceptionally effective primary antioxidant. Its low volatility ensures it remains within the material matrix during high-temperature processing and throughout the product's service life, offering sustained protection. This molecular design is central to its widespread use as a stabilizer in plastics, rubbers, and other organic materials susceptible to oxidation, making it a critical component in ensuring material longevity and performance.
The molecular formula for Antioxidant CA is C37H52O3, with a molecular weight of approximately 544.81 g/mol. Its structure is characterized by a central butane backbone to which three substituted phenol groups are attached. Each phenol ring features a hydroxyl (-OH) group, which is the active site for radical scavenging, and two bulky tert-butyl groups. These tert-butyl groups are positioned strategically to provide steric hindrance around the hydroxyl group. This hindrance is crucial for two main reasons: it stabilizes the phenoxy radical formed after hydrogen donation, preventing it from initiating further degradation, and it contributes to the molecule's high thermal stability and low volatility.
The physical form of Antioxidant CA is typically a white to off-white powder. Its low solubility in water is characteristic of such high molecular weight organic compounds, but it exhibits good solubility in various organic solvents like acetone, ethanol, and ethyl acetate. This solubility profile is important for its incorporation into polymer matrices and other organic systems.
From a synthesis perspective, the production of Antioxidant CA generally involves the alkylation of phenols with isobutylene, followed by a condensation reaction with crotonaldehyde or similar precursors. The precise control of reaction conditions, including temperature, pressure, and catalyst selection, is essential to achieve the desired structure and high purity. Manufacturers focus on optimizing these processes to ensure consistent product quality, high assay values (often 99% or higher), and minimal byproducts. The synthesis pathway is designed to yield a molecule with inherent stability and effectiveness as a radical scavenger.
The combination of its phenolic hydroxyl groups for radical scavenging and the steric protection offered by the tert-butyl groups makes Antioxidant CA an exceptionally effective primary antioxidant. Its low volatility ensures it remains within the material matrix during high-temperature processing and throughout the product's service life, offering sustained protection. This molecular design is central to its widespread use as a stabilizer in plastics, rubbers, and other organic materials susceptible to oxidation, making it a critical component in ensuring material longevity and performance.
Perspectives & Insights
Agile Reader One
“These tert-butyl groups are positioned strategically to provide steric hindrance around the hydroxyl group.”
Logic Vision Labs
“This hindrance is crucial for two main reasons: it stabilizes the phenoxy radical formed after hydrogen donation, preventing it from initiating further degradation, and it contributes to the molecule's high thermal stability and low volatility.”
Molecule Origin 88
“Its low solubility in water is characteristic of such high molecular weight organic compounds, but it exhibits good solubility in various organic solvents like acetone, ethanol, and ethyl acetate.”