3-Fluorobenzyl Alcohol (CAS 456-47-3) is a fluorine-containing aromatic alcohol that has garnered attention for its utility as a versatile intermediate in various chemical syntheses. Its specific molecular structure, featuring a fluorine atom at the meta position of the benzyl alcohol core, imbues it with unique chemical and physical properties that are leveraged across multiple industrial sectors, most notably in pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals.

Chemical and Physical Properties

Understanding the intrinsic properties of 3-Fluorobenzyl Alcohol is fundamental for its effective application and safe handling. Key characteristics include:

  • Molecular Formula: C7H7FO
  • Molecular Weight: Approximately 126.13 g/mol
  • Appearance: Typically described as a colorless to pale yellow liquid or solid (depending on purity and ambient temperature). Specific physical form can vary among suppliers.
  • Boiling Point: Around 204.5 °C at 760 mmHg (as per some sources), indicating its relatively low volatility at room temperature.
  • Density: Approximately 1.2 g/cm³
  • Solubility: Soluble in common organic solvents.
  • Reactivity: As an alcohol, it readily undergoes reactions like esterification, etherification, oxidation to the corresponding aldehyde or carboxylic acid, and can be activated for nucleophilic substitution reactions. The fluorine atom influences the electron density of the aromatic ring, affecting its reactivity in electrophilic aromatic substitution.

Synthesis Routes and Manufacturing

The synthesis of 3-Fluorobenzyl Alcohol typically involves starting materials that can be functionalized to incorporate both the benzyl alcohol moiety and the fluorine atom at the meta position. Common synthetic strategies often involve:

  • Reduction of 3-Fluorobenzaldehyde: The aldehyde is a common precursor and can be reduced using various reducing agents such as sodium borohydride (NaBH4) or lithium aluminum hydride (LiAlH4) to yield the desired alcohol.
  • Functionalization of Fluorinated Benzenes: Starting from appropriately substituted fluorobenzene derivatives, multi-step synthesis involving formylation or carboxylation followed by reduction can lead to 3-Fluorobenzyl Alcohol.

Manufacturers, such as NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD., optimize these processes for industrial scale production, focusing on yield, purity, and cost-effectiveness. When sourcing this chemical, inquire about the manufacturing process and quality control measures employed by the supplier.

Industrial Significance and Applications

The primary industrial significance of 3-Fluorobenzyl Alcohol lies in its role as an intermediate:

  • Pharmaceutical Industry: As discussed previously, it's a vital building block for pharmaceuticals, aiding in the development of drugs with improved pharmacokinetic properties due to the fluorine substitution.
  • Agrochemicals: It can serve as a precursor for certain pesticides or herbicides.
  • Specialty Chemicals: Its unique structure makes it useful in the synthesis of various fine chemicals with specific applications.

For research scientists and chemical engineers, understanding these properties is key to leveraging 3-Fluorobenzyl Alcohol effectively in new synthetic endeavors. For procurement managers, identifying a reliable manufacturer or supplier offering high-quality 3-Fluorobenzyl Alcohol at competitive prices is crucial. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. is a trusted source, committed to delivering products that meet stringent industrial demands. We invite you to contact us to discuss your requirements for CAS 456-47-3 and explore how our offerings can support your innovation.