What Is Cyclopentene?
Cyclopentene is an organic compound, a cycloalkene with the chemical formula C5H8, known for its presence as an impurity in gasoline, typically in concentrations of 1% or less. Its CAS registration number is 142-29-0.
Uses of Cyclopentene
Primarily used in chemical synthesis, cyclopentene acts as a starting monomer for producing various plastics and rubber materials, including cyclopentene rubber through ring-opening metathesis polymerization. It’s also a precursor for neplanocin A, a compound with noted anticancer and antiviral properties.
Properties of Cyclopentene
Figure 1. Basic Information on Cyclopentene
Cyclopentene is a colorless liquid at room temperature with a pungent, mildly sweet odor, boasting a molecular weight of 68.11, and exhibiting a boiling point of 44°C. It is soluble in common organic solvents like ethanol and benzene, highly flammable with a flash point of -29°C, and has a spontaneous combustion temperature of 395°C.
Types of Cyclopentene
Available for both research and industrial applications, cyclopentene is sold in various volumes for R&D, commonly refrigerated, and in larger quantities like 130 kg drums for industrial use, particularly as a monomer.
Other Information on Cyclopentene
1. Synthesis of Cyclopentene
Figure 2. Synthesis of Cyclopentene
The synthesis of cyclopentene includes methods like the pyrolysis of naphtha and catalytic hydrogenation of cyclopentadiene. Important chemical reactions involving cyclopentene include polymerization using Ziegler-Natta catalysts and hydrocarboxylation with palladium catalysts to produce cyclopentanecarboxylic acid.
2. Chemical Reactions of Cyclopentene
Figure 3. Hydrocarboxylation reaction of Cyclopentene
When cyclopentene is polymerized using a Ziegler-Natta catalyst, the 1,3-polymerization reaction is known to occur. Hydrocarboxylation of cyclopentene with palladium catalyst yields cyclopentanecarboxylic acid.
3. Hazards of Cyclopentene
Cyclopentene, as mentioned above, is a highly flammable substance and is designated by the GHS classification as follows
- Inflammable liquid: Category 2
- Self-reactive chemical: Type G
Keep away from ignition sources such as heat, sparks, open flames, and high temperatures. When handling, it is also important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment such as protective gloves, safety glasses, and protective masks, and to provide an appropriate environment by using explosion-proof electrical equipment, ventilation equipment, and lighting equipment.
Tools that do not generate sparks should be used, and precautions against electrostatic discharge should be taken. The product must be stored in a well-ventilated area and kept in a cool place.
4. Regulatory Information on Cyclopentene
Cyclopentene is a regulated compound by law due to the hazards mentioned above. It must be handled properly in compliance with laws and regulations.