In the vast world of organic chemistry, certain compounds stand out due to their unique properties and broad applicability. 2,2-Dimethoxypropane (CAS 77-76-9), also known as acetone dimethyl acetal, is one such molecule. This colorless liquid is a staple in laboratories and industrial settings, prized for its role as a versatile reagent and intermediate. For researchers and chemical professionals seeking to buy 2,2-Dimethoxypropane, understanding its intrinsic chemical characteristics is key to leveraging its full potential.

Fundamental Chemical Properties

2,2-Dimethoxypropane possesses a molecular formula of C5H12O2 and a molecular weight of approximately 104.15 g/mol. Its physical and chemical properties are defining features:

  • Appearance: It presents as a colorless, transparent liquid.
  • Boiling Point: Approximately 83°C, making it relatively easy to handle and distill.
  • Melting Point: A low melting point of -47°C ensures it remains liquid under typical laboratory conditions.
  • Density: Around 0.847 g/mL at 25°C.
  • Flash Point: Notably low, around -5°C to -10°C, classifying it as highly flammable. This necessitates careful handling and storage away from ignition sources.
  • Solubility: It exhibits good solubility in organic solvents like alcohol, ether, and benzene, and is moderately soluble in water.

The key chemical reactivity of 2,2-Dimethoxypropane lies in its nature as an acetal. In the presence of acids and water, it readily hydrolyzes to form acetone and methanol. This characteristic is fundamental to its most significant applications.

Diverse Applications Driving Demand

The unique properties of 2,2-Dimethoxypropane translate into a wide array of applications:

  1. Water Scavenger: Its reaction with water makes it an excellent agent for removing trace moisture from reaction mixtures or solvents. This is critical for reactions involving water-sensitive reagents, such as organometallics or acid-sensitive compounds.
  2. Pharmaceutical Intermediate: It is extensively used in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals. Its ability to react with 1,2-diols to form acetonides (cyclic ketals) is invaluable for protecting functional groups during complex synthetic routes. This protection strategy is vital in the production of many active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
  3. Histology: In biological sciences, it's employed for the dehydration of animal tissues. Researchers often find it more efficient than ethanol for this purpose in preparation for embedding and sectioning.
  4. Analytical Standard: Its precise reaction with water allows it to be used in methods for determining water content, sometimes as an alternative to Karl Fischer titration.

Sourcing High-Quality 2,2-Dimethoxypropane

For professionals looking to buy 2,2-Dimethoxypropane, sourcing from a reliable manufacturer and supplier is paramount. High purity, often ≥99.0%, is crucial for many applications, especially in pharmaceutical synthesis and analytical work. Suppliers should also guarantee low moisture content (≤0.1%) and provide comprehensive specifications and safety data sheets. Exploring options from established chemical suppliers, including those in China known for their manufacturing capabilities, can yield competitive pricing and ensure a consistent supply.

In conclusion, 2,2-Dimethoxypropane is a highly functional organic compound whose chemical properties make it indispensable in various scientific and industrial disciplines. Its role as a water scavenger and a key intermediate underscores its importance in modern chemistry and drug development.