Understanding Propylene Oxide (CAS 75-56-9): Production and Chemical Properties
Propylene Oxide, known scientifically by its CAS number 75-56-9, is a foundational chemical with a distinct cyclic ether structure that dictates its reactivity and numerous applications. Understanding its production methods and inherent chemical properties is crucial for optimizing its use in industrial synthesis. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD., a prominent supplier in China, provides insights into this essential compound.
Industrially, Propylene Oxide is primarily manufactured through two main routes: the chlorohydrin process and direct oxidation. The chlorohydrin process involves the reaction of propylene with chlorine and water to form propylene chlorohydrin, which is then dehydrochlorinated using a base like calcium hydroxide. While a traditional method, it generates significant byproducts. More modern and increasingly favored methods involve the direct oxidation of propylene using organic hydroperoxides, such as ethylbenzene hydroperoxide (co-producing styrene) or isobutane hydroperoxide (co-producing tert-butanol). The hydrogen peroxide to propylene oxide (HPPO) process, which uses hydrogen peroxide as the oxidant and a titanium-silicalite catalyst, is also gaining prominence due to its environmental advantages, producing only water as a byproduct.
Chemically, Propylene Oxide is a colorless, volatile liquid with a low boiling point. Its most defining characteristic is the strained three-membered epoxide ring, which readily undergoes nucleophilic attack, leading to ring-opening. This reactivity is the basis for its extensive use in polymerization reactions, particularly in the formation of polyether polyols. The molecule is also chiral, meaning it exists as two non-superimposable mirror images (enantiomers), although it is most commonly supplied and used as a racemic mixture (an equal blend of both enantiomers). Its solubility in water and many organic solvents further enhances its utility in various chemical processes.
NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. ensures that our Propylene Oxide meets stringent quality standards, reflecting the importance of these properties for downstream applications. We are committed to supporting our clients with detailed product specifications and technical information to facilitate its effective use in their manufacturing endeavors. Partner with us to access reliable Propylene Oxide and expert knowledge.
Industrially, Propylene Oxide is primarily manufactured through two main routes: the chlorohydrin process and direct oxidation. The chlorohydrin process involves the reaction of propylene with chlorine and water to form propylene chlorohydrin, which is then dehydrochlorinated using a base like calcium hydroxide. While a traditional method, it generates significant byproducts. More modern and increasingly favored methods involve the direct oxidation of propylene using organic hydroperoxides, such as ethylbenzene hydroperoxide (co-producing styrene) or isobutane hydroperoxide (co-producing tert-butanol). The hydrogen peroxide to propylene oxide (HPPO) process, which uses hydrogen peroxide as the oxidant and a titanium-silicalite catalyst, is also gaining prominence due to its environmental advantages, producing only water as a byproduct.
Chemically, Propylene Oxide is a colorless, volatile liquid with a low boiling point. Its most defining characteristic is the strained three-membered epoxide ring, which readily undergoes nucleophilic attack, leading to ring-opening. This reactivity is the basis for its extensive use in polymerization reactions, particularly in the formation of polyether polyols. The molecule is also chiral, meaning it exists as two non-superimposable mirror images (enantiomers), although it is most commonly supplied and used as a racemic mixture (an equal blend of both enantiomers). Its solubility in water and many organic solvents further enhances its utility in various chemical processes.
NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. ensures that our Propylene Oxide meets stringent quality standards, reflecting the importance of these properties for downstream applications. We are committed to supporting our clients with detailed product specifications and technical information to facilitate its effective use in their manufacturing endeavors. Partner with us to access reliable Propylene Oxide and expert knowledge.
Perspectives & Insights
Bio Analyst 88
“The chlorohydrin process involves the reaction of propylene with chlorine and water to form propylene chlorohydrin, which is then dehydrochlorinated using a base like calcium hydroxide.”
Nano Seeker Pro
“More modern and increasingly favored methods involve the direct oxidation of propylene using organic hydroperoxides, such as ethylbenzene hydroperoxide (co-producing styrene) or isobutane hydroperoxide (co-producing tert-butanol).”
Data Reader 7
“The hydrogen peroxide to propylene oxide (HPPO) process, which uses hydrogen peroxide as the oxidant and a titanium-silicalite catalyst, is also gaining prominence due to its environmental advantages, producing only water as a byproduct.”