Acrolein (2-propenal): Overview
Description
Acrolein is a highly flammable liquid mainly used as a chemical intermediate for the manufacture of plastics or colloidal forms of metals.
Acrolein is mainly used as a chemical intermediate for the manufacture of plastics or colloidal forms of metals. It has been used as an additive for perfumes. It is used as a herbicide in irrigation channels to control algae and submerged weed growth. In the past, acrolein was used in military poison gas mixtures, including tear gas.
Substance details
Substance name: Acrolein
CASR number: 107-02-8
Molecular formula: C3H4O
Synonyms: acrylic aldehyde, acrylaldehyde, acraldehyde, aqualin, Magnacide
Physical properties
Acrolein is a clear, yellowish liquid with a burnt, sweet, pungent odour. It is highly flammable. It has a high vapour pressure and has significant water solubility. Acrolein is considered a volatile organic compound by the National Pollutant Inventory.
Melting Point: -88°C
Boiling Point: 52.5°C
Specific Gravity: 0.843
Vapour pressure: 29.3 - 36.5 kPa at 20°C
Flash point: -18°C
Chemical properties
Acrolein is unstable and polymerises in the presence of light or in the presence of alkali or strong acids.
Further information
The National Pollutant Inventory (NPI) holds data for all sources of acrolein emissions in Australia.
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