3-Hydroxybenzaldehyde, identified by its CAS number 100-83-4, is a significant organic compound characterized by its aromatic ring, an aldehyde group (-CHO), and a hydroxyl group (-OH) positioned meta to each other. This unique molecular structure imbues it with a specific set of chemical properties that make it an invaluable intermediate in various synthetic pathways and scientific applications.

Chemical Properties and Reactivity

The chemical properties of 3-Hydroxybenzaldehyde are a direct result of its functional groups:

  • Aldehyde Group: The aldehyde functionality makes it susceptible to nucleophilic addition reactions, oxidation (to a carboxylic acid), and reduction (to an alcohol). It readily participates in condensation reactions, which are fundamental in building larger organic molecules.
  • Hydroxyl Group: The phenolic hydroxyl group imparts weakly acidic properties and can undergo reactions typical of phenols, such as etherification and esterification. It also influences the reactivity of the aromatic ring, making it more prone to electrophilic aromatic substitution.
  • Aromatic Ring: The benzene ring provides stability and a platform for further functionalization. The presence of the hydroxyl group activates the ring towards electrophilic attack, particularly at the ortho and para positions relative to the hydroxyl group.

These combined properties make 3-Hydroxybenzaldehyde a highly versatile building block for organic chemists. When looking to buy 3-Hydroxybenzaldehyde, understanding these reactivities is key to planning your synthesis.

Diverse Applications

The utility of 3-Hydroxybenzaldehyde spans several critical sectors:

  • Pharmaceutical Intermediates: This is arguably one of its most prominent roles. 3-Hydroxybenzaldehyde serves as a precursor in the synthesis of numerous pharmaceuticals. Its structure is often incorporated into molecules designed for specific biological activities, making it a crucial intermediate for drug discovery and manufacturing. If your company requires a reliable pharmaceutical intermediate supplier, ensuring they offer high-purity 3-Hydroxybenzaldehyde is essential.
  • Ion-Selective Sensors: As a capable ionophore, 3-Hydroxybenzaldehyde plays a role in creating advanced electrochemical sensors. Its ability to selectively bind ions, such as Tb3+, allows for the development of highly sensitive electrodes used in analytical chemistry and environmental monitoring.
  • Organic Synthesis: In academic and industrial research laboratories, 3-Hydroxybenzaldehyde is a common reagent for a broad range of organic transformations. Its reactivity allows chemists to introduce specific functionalities and construct complex molecular architectures.
  • Material Science: Beyond sensors, its unique structure can be leveraged in the development of novel polymers and advanced materials where specific aromatic and functional group properties are desired.

Sourcing and Purity Considerations

For those seeking to procure 3-Hydroxybenzaldehyde, whether for research purposes or large-scale manufacturing, the emphasis must be on purity and consistent quality. Partnering with a reputable 3-Hydroxybenzaldehyde manufacturer or distributor ensures that the material’s chemical properties remain uncompromised. Always request Certificates of Analysis (CoA) to verify the purity and identity of the compound. Sourcing from a trusted chemical supplier in China or globally can provide access to high-quality materials at competitive prices, facilitating innovation across various scientific disciplines.

In summary, the chemical properties of 3-Hydroxybenzaldehyde make it a cornerstone in many synthetic processes, particularly in the pharmaceutical and analytical sciences. Its reliable sourcing is key to unlocking its full potential.