3-Methoxycinnamic acid(CAS: 6099-04-3)

3-Methoxycinnamic acid is a crystalline solid with a molecular weight of approximately 174.19 g/mol. It has a pKa of around 3.2 and is slightly soluble in water. The compound is reactive, particularly under acidic conditions, and can undergo esterification reactions.

3-Methoxycinnamic acid is commonly synthesized through a condensation reaction of cinnamic acid and methyl alcohol using a catalytic amount of sulfuric acid. The process yields a high selectivity and good overall yield, typically around 85-90%.

3-Methoxycinnamic acid finds applications in the pharmaceutical industry for the synthesis of certain drugs, in the polymer industry as a monomer or modifier, and in the sensing industry for the development of chemical sensors and semiconductors.

When handling 3-Methoxycinnamic acid, it is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat. It should be handled in a well-ventilated area or a fume hood. Spills should be cleaned up using appropriate procedures and the safety data sheet (SDS) should be consulted for detailed instructions.