4-Propylphenyl-3,5-difluorobenzene stands out in the world of aromatic hydrocarbons. This compound showcases a unique structure, pairing a propyl group with a difluorinated benzene ring. Chemists rely on it for its tight molecular framework and tailored substitution pattern. This blend offers consistent reactivity, making it a useful material in multiple chemical and industrial processes. Unlike commonplace aromatics, this substance delivers clear utility thanks to its specific design and well-documented profile. In short, anyone working in synthesis or advanced materials probably encountered it or at least compounds like it in their research or production routines.
The molecule features a benzene core, two fluorine atoms at the 3 and 5 positions, plus a propyl group attached to the 4 position of the phenyl ring. Its molecular formula, C15H14F2, signals a mid-sized organic compound, neither too cumbersome nor too slight for handling in laboratory or production settings. The positioning of the fluorine atoms delivers more than just electronic tweaks: it sets the tone for thermal stability, volatility, and the compound’s interaction with solvents and reagents. The compound sits at a crossroads of structural rigidity and selective reactivity, a point of interest for synthetic chemists focusing on fluorinated intermediates or custom aromatic blocks.
4-Propylphenyl-3,5-difluorobenzene typically appears as an off-white crystalline solid. Depending on the exact process route, this compound may come as flakes, a fine powder, or larger crystalline pearls. In laboratory settings, pure grades show excellent uniformity under microscopic inspection. The solid melts at a moderate temperature, affirming its aromatic core and fluorinated build. Density hovers near 1.10–1.15 g/cm³ at room temperature, demonstrating stable packing and manageable bulk storage for larger scale applications. Most commonly, suppliers provide the compound in sealed bottles, either under inert gas or vacuum, to block moisture pickup and reduce airborne hazards.
This difluorinated aromatic survives a wide range of conditions. Its core stands up against mild oxidants and bases, yet the propyl side-chain responds to select reagents, giving chemists an extra handle for further modification. Polarity introduced by the fluorine atoms increases its solubility in polar organic solvents while slightly tweaking reactivity, lending itself to building blocks for pharmaceuticals, ligands, and advanced polymers. In my lab work, I found the compound tolerated short bursts of heat and survived in a variety of solvents, but did not appreciably dissolve in water due to the hydrocarbon backbone. Any solution prepared should be weighed and handled with care due to volatility and the possibility of low-level fumes when heated.
Specifications usually demand high purity, above 98%, as minor impurities could alter reactivity or impact downstream properties. Analytical certificates commonly list melting point, GC purity, and moisture content for every batch. As for identification under customs or transport, the compound travels under its Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) number and falls within HS Code 290369 for halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons. This simplifies tracking, logistical planning, and alignment with safety protocols across borders and between vendors.
Bulk density estimates align with measured single-crystal values, supporting reproducible transports and packaging volumes. This makes weighing efficient in both research and production scales. In larger plants, teams prefer to store the material in double-lined drums or sealed barrels, especially for longer-term supply management. Whether transferring powder, pearls, or solutions, everyone on the handling team wears full PPE, works in fume extract hoods, and checks that the packaging remains airtight, preventing both contamination and loss from accidental spills.
4-Propylphenyl-3,5-difluorobenzene calls for common sense caution like most halogenated organics. Frequent handling without gloves or unaware inhalation may cause skin irritation or respiratory discomfort—such negative incidents usually trace to skipping out on protection or working in poorly ventilated rooms. Anyone involved in large-scale pouring or mixing should have chemical goggles, nitrile gloves, and splash-resistant overalls. Waste solids and residue solutions never belong down the drain—they must go out via professional hazardous chemical handlers to avoid environmental leaks. Regulatory data points to this compound as “harmful” in concentrated exposure, so following the supplier’s or institution’s SDS (Safety Data Sheet) is key. Dilution in process streams and use of closed system processing reduce exposure risk to negligible levels.
Industry leans on this aromatic bulk for good reason. Fluorinated aromatics show up in pharmaceutical intermediates, agrochemical research, and as building blocks for performance materials. The difluoro substitution brings a different edge compared to pure hydrocarbons or even monofluorinated analogs: greater chemical resistance, slower degradation, and tailored solubility. Many manufacturers chase these features when building new candidates for paints, coatings, and even electronics. My own team found that tweaking just the propyl chain or the fluorine positions unlocked several new reactivity options without triggering unwanted side reactions—economical, clean, and repeatable.
Any chemical with this profile needs respect in the workplace. Safe handling boils down to solid training, strong ventilation, and proper PPE every time. My experience shows that skipping just one of these steps almost guarantees an incident over time. Industry can focus on greener solvents, recovery of fluorinated waste, and real-time monitoring during transfers. Research labs ought to track material flows, ensure clean labeling, and choose smaller batch sizes when possible. Moving forward, handlers and developers owe it to their teams to keep safety and accountability front and center, preventing harmful incidents and unwanted releases.
Chemical Name: 4-Propylphenyl-3,5-difluorobenzene
Molecular Formula: C15H14F2
Physical State: Crystalline solid, flakes, pearls, powder
Density: ~1.10–1.15 g/cm³ at 20°C
Melting Point: Moderate, check supplier COA for batch details
HS Code: 290369
Hazard Class: Harmful upon direct exposure
Packaging: Sealed bottles or drums under inert atmosphere
Storage: Cool, dry, ventilated space, out of direct sunlight
Uses: Pharmaceutical intermediates, advanced materials, chemical research
Safety: PPE required, waste as hazardous, attention to fumes during transfer
