2-Methyl-1-phenyl-2-propanol

Chemical properties

Clear colorless liquid or low melting solid

Chemical properties

2-Methyl-1-phenyl-2-propanol has not yet been found in nature. The alcohol has a floral, herbaceous odor, reminiscent of lilac, and is prepared by a Grignard reaction of benzylmagnesium chloride and acetone. It is used in perfumery for various flower notes (e.g., lilac, hyacinth, mimosa). The alcohol is stable to alkali and is thus suited for soap perfumes. It is used to prepare a number of esters, which are also used as fragrance substances.

Chemical properties

α,α-Dimethylphenethyl alcohol has a fresh, floral odor and bitter taste.

Occurrence

Reported found in cocoa.

The Uses of 2-Methyl-1-phenyl-2-propanol

2-Methyl-1-phenyl-2-propanol is used in confecting floral essences, such as lily, narcissus, jasmine and keiskei and other advanced floral essences. Its acetic ester has fresh fragrance so that it has especial value.

The Uses of 2-Methyl-1-phenyl-2-propanol

2-Methyl-1-phenyl-2-propanol was used in the preparation of 2-methyl-1-phenyl-2-propyl bromide.

Preparation

From acetone and benzyl magnesium chloride or benzyl magnesium bromide.

Synthesis Reference(s)

Tetrahedron Letters, 27, p. 3129, 1986 DOI: 10.1016/S0040-4039(00)84733-4

Flammability and Explosibility

Not classified

Safety Profile

Moderately toxic by ingestion. Combustible liquid. When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes.

Synthesis

Dimethyl Benzyl Carbinol is obtained by Grignard synthesis from Benzyl-magnesium chloride and Acetone.