Uses
Methylcyclopenta-1,3-diene is mainly used as a raw material for manufacturing the epoxy resin curing agent methyl nadic anhydride (MNA) and the gasoline antiknock agent methylcyclopentadiene manganese tricarbonyl (MMT). It is also used to manufacture new products such as polyolefin catalysts, pharmaceuticals, high-energy fuels, and dye additives, as well as various metal derivatives, special adhesives, and flame retardants. MMT prepared from MCPD is a gasoline antiknock agent with energy-saving and pollution-reducing characteristics; MNA prepared from it, due to the presence of methyl groups in its molecule, exhibits superior properties compared to cyclopentadiene products in certain aspects.
General Description
A pale yellow liquid or crystalline solid. Less dense than water and insoluble in water. Hence floats on water. Vapors are heavier than air. Flash point of 90°F. Vapor can injure the eyes and respiratory tract and may cause headaches and dizziness. Vapor is anesthetic and may have other central nervous system effects. Vapor may also cause liver and kidney disorder. Ingestion of the liquid into the respiratory system, or from vomiting, may cause bronchopneumonia or pulmonary edema.
Air & Water Reactions
Highly flammable. Insoluble in water.
Reactivity Profile
METHYLCYCLOPENTADIENE may react vigorously with strong oxidizing agents. Can react exothermically with reducing agents to release gaseous hydrogen. May undergo autoxidation upon exposure to the air to form explosive peroxides.
Health Hazard
Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Vapors may cause dizziness or suffocation. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution.
