2-Fluoroanisole carries the molecular formula C7H7FO, with a unique combination of aromatic structure and a methoxy group modified by a fluorine atom at the ortho position. This chemical appears as a colorless liquid under standard conditions, and its faint ether-like odor is not hard to notice in a laboratory setting. Chemists often encounter it during synthesis work, especially in fields related to pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and organic intermediates. The fluorine substitution in the highly reactive ortho position brings a distinct set of attributes—making 2-Fluoroanisole distinct from other anisoles. Its CAS Number stands as a unique identifier for tracking purity and regulatory requirements during handling and trade.
The methoxy group bonded to a benzene ring confers notable solubility in organic solvents, and the presence of fluorine increases thermal and chemical stability. You can picture the structure as a benzene base, with an OCH3 group on one carbon and an F atom right next door. 2-Fluoroanisole falls under the broad product class of aromatic ethers, and suppliers often deliver it as a liquid in bulk liter units or specialized ampoules for smaller quantities. Its role as a raw material spans from serving as a building block in organic synthesis to flavor and fragrance research. The HS Code assigned for international trade marks it as a distinct organic compound—860120 for sino-international shipments. Material Safety Data Sheets highlight the handling risks, with this compound often flammable in both liquid and vapor forms.
Weighing in at a molecular weight of 126.13 g/mol, 2-Fluoroanisole remains relatively light in this family of chemicals. It boasts a density close to 1.10 g/cm3 at 20°C, which puts it just slightly above water. Its melting point hovers just below zero Celsius, ensuring a liquid state in most lab and industrial environments, while the boiling point reaches around 150 to 152°C—so open flames spell risk for evaporation or ignition. Laboratory use depends heavily on its ability to stay stable under these conditions, and its refractive index of about 1.499 provides a tell-tale signature during analysis. The odor might not seem significant at first, but that faint softness is a reminder that a small spill can get noticed quickly. Reactivity stays moderate except in the presence of strong oxidizers. With a flash point close to 43°C, flammability insurance in storage and transport channels demands strict adherence to safety guidelines.
2-Fluoroanisole rarely appears as a solid under normal circumstances—its low melting point keeps it mostly in a clear liquid state. Crystallization can occur during cold storage or deliberate purification, and when this happens, you’ll spot colorless to slightly white flakes or crystals. Suppliers may refer to different forms—powder, pearls, or crystal—but most end users will transport, handle, and use the compound as a liquid solution. Bulk handling uses glass, PTFE, or stainless steel containers, with drums lined for chemical compatibility. Labs will sometimes purchase advanced material in crystalline purity for research, but larger operations often bypass solidification and move directly to process-use in liquid transfer. Specific gravity measurements consistently align with batch purity controls—a standard check before mixing or downstream reactions.
Handling 2-Fluoroanisole means understanding its flammable and slightly toxic character. Skin or eye contact can cause irritation, and inhalation of vapors will quickly draw attention with throat discomfort or cough. Drinking the chemical even in accidental form can put stress on intestinal systems and requires fast medical intervention. Use of gloves, eye protection, and proper fume hoods is more than just a rule—it’s second nature for anyone who has been splashed before. Storage needs a well-ventilated space, away from heat sources or flame, and good labeling practices cut down the risk of confusion with less reactive compounds. Spills call for immediate cleanup with absorbent inert material to reduce exposure and fire hazard. Industrial reports cite repeated incidents where lack of training led to unnecessary injuries—safety briefings go a long way toward preventing this.
As a raw material, 2-Fluoroanisole delivers value in syntheses where a stable aromatic ring and a versatile methoxy group are key. Medicinal chemistry relies on such starting points for introducing unique fluorinated motifs with increased bioactivity or metabolic stability. Agrochemical research tracks similar benefits—the structural motif finds new life in pest control candidates and herbicides. Once incorporated into a reaction scheme, this chemical’s unique electron distribution (thanks to the fluorine) can influence outcomes from reactivity rates to target selectivity. The effect cascades beyond the lab, appearing in improved crop yields, more stable pharmaceuticals, and even specialty materials for coatings or electronic devices. Each industry touches this compound in its own way yet shares common ground in respecting its hazards and safeguarding handlers. Regular audits and transparent inventory controls can prevent loss or unsafe accumulation. Above all, ensuring robust training and labeling practices has always seemed the most practical step for improving safe and sustainable chemical use, both in academic and industrial settings.
