Properties and Applications of L-Phenylalaninol

Basic Information:

Alias: L-Phenylalaninol

CAS No: 3182-95-4

Molecular Formula: C9H13NO

Molecular Weight: 151.21

Appearance: White to light yellow

Melting Point: 92-94°C (lit.)

Solubility: Easily soluble in chloroform, ethyl acetate, ethanol, and methanol.

L-Phenylalaninol is an important amino alcohol compound that plays a key role in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. Below is an introduction to the main properties and applications of L-Phenylalaninol.

Structure

The molecular structure of L-Phenylalaninol includes a benzene ring, an amino group (-NH2), and a hydroxyl group (-OH). These functional groups give it its unique chemical properties and reactivity.

Optical Activity

L-Phenylalaninol is optically active, meaning it can rotate the direction of polarized light. This optical activity makes it significant in chiral synthesis.

Physical Properties:

Appearance: L-Phenylalaninol is typically a white to pale yellow crystalline solid.  

Solubility: It is soluble in water, ethanol, and other polar organic solvents.  

Melting Point: The melting point of L-Phenylalaninol is usually between 80-82°C.  

Boiling Point: Its boiling point is around 150-160°C (at atmospheric pressure).  

Stability and Storage:

Stability: L-Phenylalaninol is relatively stable at room temperature but should be kept away from strong acids, strong bases, and strong oxidizers.  

Storage Conditions: It should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture, to prevent degradation.

Applications of L-Phenylalaninol

Pharmaceutical Industry:

Chiral Intermediate: L-Phenylalaninol is widely used as a chiral intermediate in drug synthesis. It plays a significant role in asymmetric synthesis, helping to create drug molecules with high optical purity. For example, it is used in the synthesis of antidepressants, anticancer drugs, and more.

Drug Development: L-Phenylalaninol is used in drug development processes to improve the selectivity and effectiveness of new drug synthesis pathways.

Chemical Synthesis:

Chiral Catalyst: Due to its optical activity, L-Phenylalaninol is often used as a chiral catalyst in asymmetric reactions.

Synthesis Intermediate: In organic synthesis, L-Phenylalaninol is used as an intermediate to produce various chemicals, including pesticides, fragrances, and materials.

Research and Development:

Research Tool: L-Phenylalaninol is utilized in chemical research and development, particularly in chiral chemistry and asymmetric synthesis studies. It can be used as a model compound to study reaction mechanisms and properties.

Cosmetics and Daily Chemical Products:

Ingredient Additive: In cosmetics and personal care products, L-Phenylalaninol is sometimes used as an additive or raw material to improve product performance and stability.

L-Phenylalaninol, as an important amino alcohol compound, plays a significant role across multiple fields. From being a chiral intermediate in the pharmaceutical industry to a catalyst in chemical synthesis, and even serving as a research tool and additive in daily chemical products, L-Phenylalaninol has broad application prospects and practical value. Understanding its properties and uses is vital for optimizing related applications and improving product quality.