Description
1,2-Hexanediol(6920-22-5) is a linear aliphatic diol with a carbon chain length containing six carbons. It is a synthetic preservative and moisture-binding agent belonging to a class of agents known as higher molecular glycols. It is considered non-sensitizing. It is ideal for use as an emollient, humectant, and wetting agent in cosmetic and skin care products.
Chemical Properties
clear colorless to light yellow liquid.
Physical properties
1,2-Hexanediol appears as a colorless, viscous liquid with a mild odor. Its density is 0.951 g/cm3 at 25°C, boiling point is 223-224°C, melting point is 2°C, flash point is 122°C (closed cup), refractive index (20°C) is 1.410-1.430, and it is completely miscible with water.
Application
1,2-Hexanediol has an antibacterial effect. Other uses are in ink-jet inks, fuel and lubricant additives.
Preparation
1,2-Hexanediol was prepared in about 45% over-all yield by a-bromination of caproic acid, hydrolysis to a-hydroxycaproic acid, and reduction with lithium aluminum hydride.
Using the oxidant of H2O2, the organic acid is oxidized to peroxyacid, and the peroxyacid then epoxidizes the olefin double bond, and finally hydrolyzes to obtain 1,2-hexanediol.
benefits
1,2 hexanediol is most commonly used as a solvent in skincare formulation. It pulls the moisture up from the deeper levels of the skin, as well as from the air, to help keep the top layers of your skin from drying out. This makes It very effective at keeping your skin hydrated and providing long-term moisture. It can also help to disperse pigments more evenly in makeup products and boost the antimicrobial activity of preservatives.
General Description
1,2-Hexanediol acts as cosurfactant, used for modifying the sodium dodecyl sulfate micelles. Solubility of 1,2-hexanediol in supercritical CO2 has been reported. It has a tendency of self-association to form micelle-like aggregates.
Flammability and Explosibility
Nonflammable
Safety
1,2 hexanediol has been proven to be a completely safe and non-irritating ingredient. In an in-use safety evaluation for skin irritation and sensitization potential, 28 participants (males and females) were instructed to use a body wash containing 0.15% 1,2- hexanediol for a minimum of 3 times per week over a 30-day period. There was no evidence of erythema, edema, or dryness of application sites in any of the participants, and it was concluded that the product did not demonstrate a potential for eliciting skin irritation or sensitization.?
Purification Methods
Fractionally distil it, preferably in a vacuum. Alternatively, dissolve it in Et2O, dry with K2CO3 then Na2SO4, filter, evaporate and distil it in a vacuum. The bis-4-nitrobenzoyl derivative has m 101.5-102.5o. [Rudloff Can J Chem 36 486 1958, Beilstein 1 I 251, 1 III 2200, 1 IV 2554.]
