The Chemistry of Solketal: A Deep Dive into 2,2-Dimethyl-1,3-dioxolane-4-methanol
Understanding the intricate chemistry and properties of essential chemical intermediates is vital for professionals in the field. This article delves into 2,2-Dimethyl-1,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, known by its CAS number 100-79-8 and commonly called Solketal. As a leading manufacturer and supplier in China, NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. offers this compound with a commitment to detailed chemical understanding and product excellence.
Solketal is structurally characterized as a cyclic ketal formed from glycerol and acetone. This protected form of glycerol possesses a chiral center, leading to racemic mixtures or enantiomerically pure forms, depending on the synthesis and purification methods employed. The chemical formula C6H12O3 and molecular weight of approximately 132.16 g/mol define its core identity. Its appearance as a clear, colorless liquid with a moderate boiling point (around 188-191 °C) and low vapor pressure makes it suitable for various reaction conditions and formulation types.
The synthesis of Solketal typically involves the acid-catalyzed reaction between glycerol and acetone. Modern approaches often utilize heterogeneous catalysts, such as zeolites or ion-exchange resins, which facilitate easier separation and catalyst reuse, contributing to a more sustainable manufacturing process. This focus on green chemistry is a cornerstone of our production philosophy at NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD.
Its chemical reactivity is largely dictated by the presence of the primary hydroxyl group, which can undergo esterification, etherification, and oxidation reactions. The dioxolane ring can also be hydrolyzed under acidic conditions to regenerate glycerol and acetone, a characteristic exploited in its use as a protecting group.
Industrially, Solketal finds significant application as a precursor for glyceride synthesis, essential for creating emulsifiers, surfactants, and mono-/diglycerides used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Its adoption as a green solvent, offering a lower toxicity profile and better biodegradability than many conventional solvents, is also rapidly growing. Furthermore, its utility as a fuel additive, improving combustion properties and emission profiles, highlights its role in energy-related innovations.
For procurement managers and research scientists seeking to buy high-quality 2,2-Dimethyl-1,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, understanding these chemical properties is key. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. is dedicated to providing detailed product information and technical support. We invite you to contact us for a quote on CAS 100-79-8 and to learn more about how our reliable supply can benefit your chemical synthesis and product development needs.
Perspectives & Insights
Chem Catalyst Pro
“Its adoption as a green solvent, offering a lower toxicity profile and better biodegradability than many conventional solvents, is also rapidly growing.”
Agile Thinker 7
“Furthermore, its utility as a fuel additive, improving combustion properties and emission profiles, highlights its role in energy-related innovations.”
Logic Spark 24
“For procurement managers and research scientists seeking to buy high-quality 2,2-Dimethyl-1,3-dioxolane-4-methanol, understanding these chemical properties is key.”