Propiophenone

Propiophenone (shorthand: benzoylethane or BzEt) is an aryl ketone. It is a colorless, sweet-smelling liquid that is insoluble in water, but miscible with organic solvents. It is used in the preparation of other compounds. Propiophenone (shorthand: benzoylethane or BzEt) is an aryl ketone. It is a colorless, sweet-smelling liquid that is insoluble in water, but miscible with organic solvents. It is used in the preparation of other compounds. Propiophenone can be prepared by Friedel–Crafts reaction of propionic acid chloride and benzene. It is also prepared commercially by ketonization of benzoic acid and propionic acid over calcium acetate and alumina at 450–550 °C: Ludwig Claisen discovered that α-methoxystyrene forms this compound when heated for an hour at 300 °C (65% yield). It is an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and organic compounds. It can also be used in the synthesis of aryl alkenes, such as phenylpropanoids. With a flowery odor, propiophenone is a component in some perfumes.