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3-Methyl-4-propoxybenzaldehyde (CAS No. 820236-96-2): A Versatile Aromatic Aldehyde for Modern Applications

3-Methyl-4-propoxybenzaldehyde (CAS 820236-96-2) is a specialized aromatic aldehyde compound gaining attention in pharmaceutical intermediates, fragrance synthesis, and material science. This pale yellow to colorless liquid with a characteristic balsamic-woody odor belongs to the benzaldehyde derivative family, where the propoxy group at the 4-position and methyl group at the 3-position create unique chemical properties. The compound's molecular formula C₁₁H₁₄O₂ and molecular weight 178.23 g/mol make it particularly interesting for researchers exploring green chemistry alternatives and sustainable synthesis routes.

The growing demand for 3-methyl-4-propoxybenzaldehyde stems from its balanced chemical reactivity – the aldehyde group offers nucleophilic addition sites while the propoxy group enhances solubility in organic media. Recent studies highlight its potential as a flavor and fragrance ingredient, particularly in premium cosmetic formulations where mild, persistent aromas are valued. The compound's low volatility compared to simpler benzaldehydes makes it attractive for long-lasting fragrance applications, answering current market needs for sustained-release personal care products.

In pharmaceutical research, CAS 820236-96-2 serves as a key building block for heterocyclic compound synthesis. Its structural features allow for diverse chemical transformations, enabling the creation of novel drug candidates. The propoxy side chain particularly facilitates membrane permeability in potential active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), addressing one of modern drug development's critical challenges – bioavailability optimization. This aligns with current industry focus on bioavailability enhancement technologies, a hot topic in medicinal chemistry forums and patent applications.

The synthesis of 3-methyl-4-propoxybenzaldehyde typically involves Williamson ether synthesis followed by controlled oxidation, with recent advancements focusing on catalytic methods that reduce environmental impact. Modern approaches employ phase-transfer catalysts or microwave-assisted reactions to improve yield and purity – techniques that resonate with today's emphasis on energy-efficient chemical processes. Analytical characterization by GC-MS, HPLC, and NMR confirms the compound's high purity (>98%), meeting stringent requirements for research and industrial applications.

Material scientists value 3-methyl-4-propoxybenzaldehyde for its role in producing specialty polymers and liquid crystal precursors. The compound's ability to form Schiff bases with various amines creates opportunities for developing advanced materials with tunable properties. This connects to trending research in smart materials and responsive surfaces, areas receiving significant attention in materials science publications and technology investment circles.

From a commercial perspective, CAS 820236-96-2 occupies a niche but growing market segment. Suppliers typically offer this compound in research quantities (100mg to 100g), with some specialty chemical producers providing kilogram-scale batches. The price point reflects its status as a fine chemical rather than a commodity, with current market analysis showing steady demand growth at approximately 8-12% annually in the fragrance and pharmaceutical sectors. This growth trajectory mirrors broader trends in custom synthesis and tailor-made intermediates markets.

Storage and handling of 3-methyl-4-propoxybenzaldehyde require standard organic chemical precautions – protection from light in amber glass containers, inert atmosphere when appropriate, and temperature control below 30°C. These protocols align with good laboratory practices (GLP) and meet regulatory requirements for similar aromatic aldehydes. The compound's stability profile makes it suitable for international shipping, supporting the globalized nature of modern chemical research and development.

Emerging applications for 3-methyl-4-propoxybenzaldehyde include its use as a photoinitiator component in UV-curable coatings and as a ligand precursor in catalytic systems. These innovative uses respond to industry demands for energy-curing technologies and sustainable catalysis – two areas receiving substantial research funding worldwide. Patent analysis reveals increasing intellectual property activity around derivatives of this compound, particularly in Asian and European markets.

Quality control specifications for CAS 820236-96-2 typically include purity assessment by GC, water content determination (Karl Fischer), and identity confirmation via FTIR. Advanced users often request additional characterization such as residual solvent analysis or heavy metal screening, especially when the compound serves as a pharmaceutical intermediate. These quality parameters address current good manufacturing practice (cGMP) considerations that are increasingly important across chemical industries.

Environmental and safety assessments indicate that 3-methyl-4-propoxybenzaldehyde presents typical hazards associated with aromatic aldehydes, requiring standard personal protective equipment (PPE) during handling. Its environmental fate and toxicity profile are comparable to similar benzaldehyde derivatives, with biodegradation studies showing moderate persistence under aerobic conditions. These characteristics position the compound favorably compared to more persistent synthetic chemicals, aligning with green chemistry principles that guide modern chemical development.

The scientific literature reveals growing interest in 3-methyl-4-propoxybenzaldehyde's potential as a chiral auxiliary in asymmetric synthesis and as a scaffold for metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). These cutting-edge applications demonstrate how this seemingly simple aromatic aldehyde continues to find relevance in advanced research areas. Such versatility explains why academic citations and commercial inquiries about this compound have increased by approximately 40% over the past five years according to chemical database analytics.

Looking forward, 3-methyl-4-propoxybenzaldehyde (CAS 820236-96-2) is poised to maintain its relevance across multiple industries. Its balanced chemical properties, synthetic accessibility, and structural flexibility make it valuable for both traditional applications and emerging technologies. As research continues into sustainable chemical processes and functional materials, this compound will likely play increasingly important roles – particularly in fragrance longevity enhancement, drug delivery systems, and advanced material design. The compound exemplifies how targeted molecular modifications of classic chemical structures can yield compounds with wide-ranging utility in modern science and technology.

• 820237-57-8(Benzaldehyde, 3-methyl-2,4-dipropoxy-)
• 433731-18-1(Benzaldehyde, 4-ethoxy-2-propoxy- (9CI))
• 17954-12-0(Benzaldehyde,2,2'-[1,3-propanediylbis(oxy)]bis-)
• 613-69-4(2-Ethoxybenzaldehyde)
• 820237-48-7(Benzaldehyde, 2-hydroxy-3-methyl-4-propoxy-)
• 433731-19-2(Benzaldehyde, 2-ethoxy-4-propoxy- (9CI))
• 834885-08-4(2-Hydroxy-4,6-dipropoxybenzaldehyde)
• 7091-12-5(2-Propoxybenzaldehyde)
• 820237-56-7(Benzaldehyde,2-methoxy-3-methyl-4-propoxy-)
• 58470-10-3(Benzaldehyde,2,4,6-tripropoxy-)