Veratraldehyde 98% Purity Benzaldehyde Standard CAS 120-14-9 Research Grade Reference Standard

Product Overview

Veratraldehyde, also known as 3,4-Dimethoxybenzaldehyde , is an aromatic aldehyde featuring two methoxy groups at the 3 and 4 positions of the benzene ring. It is a versatile compound widely used as a flavoring and fragrance ingredient for its pleasant vanilla-like, woody, and sweet aroma. It occurs naturally in essential oils, peppermint, ginger, bourbon vanilla, and fruits such as raspberry. Beyond its sensory applications, veratraldehyde serves as a crucial intermediate in organic synthesis.

Chemical Properties

• Molecular Formula: C₉H₁₀O₃

• Molecular Weight: 166.17 g/mol

• Appearance: White to light yellow to light orange powder to crystal

• Assay (Purity): ≥ 98.0% (GC)

• Melting Point: 40–43 °C (lit.)

• Boiling Point: 281 °C (lit.)

• Solubility: Freely soluble in alcohol and ether; slightly soluble in water

• Storage: Should be stored under inert gas, in a cool and dark place (<15°C), as it is air-sensitive and can oxidize to 3,4-dimethoxybenzoic acid under light exposure

Synthetic Process

Veratraldehyde can be synthesized via several routes. The most classical and widely used industrial method is the methylation of vanillin (4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde). This process involves reacting vanillin with dimethyl sulfate in an alkaline medium.

Another method uses catechol as a starting material, which is first methylated to veratrole (1,2-dimethoxybenzene) and then subjected to Vilsmeier-Haack formylation to introduce the aldehyde group. A patent describes a process utilizing veratrole with phosphorus oxychloride and N,N-dimethylformamide in the presence of aluminum chloride.

Mechanism of Action & Applications

Veratraldehyde has several important applications:

• Pharmaceutical Synthesis: It is a key intermediate in the synthesis of various pharmaceutical compounds, including the cardiovascular drug Methyldopa, Carbidopa, as well as Prazosin and other medications. It is also used to produce the veterinary drug sulfonamide synergist Diaveridine (DVD).

• Flavor and Fragrance Industry: As a flavoring agent, it is used to provide sweet, vanilla-like notes to baked goods, frostings, and candies. In perfumery, it adds a sweet and woody character.

• Chemical Research: It is a valuable tool in organic synthesis for constructing more complex molecules. For example, it has been used in the synthesis of the anti-HIV agent (+)-lithospermic acid.

• Corrosion Inhibition & Repellent: Research has explored its application as a corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in acidic environments and as a repellent against arthropods like mosquitoes and ticks, showing efficacy comparable to DEET in some cases.

Quality Specifications & Regulatory Compliance

• Purity: ≥ 98.0% (GC)

• Appearance: White to light yellow crystals or powder

• Grade: Fragrance grade, Halal, Kosher

• Compliance: Meets specifications of IFRA and JECFA; complies with EU Regulations (1223/2009, 1334/2008 & 178/2002) and FDA 21 CFR 172.515. It is recognized as a food additive in China (GB 2760).

• Shelf Life: Stable for 3 years when stored as a powder at -20°C.

• Packaging Options: 25kg/fiber drum, or customized packaging available upon request.

Packaging & Storage

• Standard packaging: 25kg/fiber drum, or according to customer requirements.

• Storage: Store under inert gas in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place, below 15°C. Keep away from oxidizing agents and sources of light to prevent oxidation.