Benzaldehyde

Benzaldehyde (C₇H₆O), is the simplest representative of the aromatic aldehydes, occurring naturally as the glycoside amygdalin. This aromatic aldehyde has a distinctive odor and flavor similar to almond oil. This organic chemical compound has numerous industrial applications, including dyes, flavoring agents, perfumes, and the preparation of other organic compounds.

Properties of Benzaldehyde

• Molecular formula: C₇H₆O
• CAS No.: 100-52-7
• The molecular weight of benzaldehyde is 106.12 g/mol.
• The boiling point of benzaldehyde is 179 °C (354.2 °F).
• Specific gravity: 1.045 gm/ml at 25°C
• Assay: Not less than 99.0% (By GC)
• This liquid is colourless to yellow in colour.
• Benzaldehyde has the odour of almonds.
• It is slightly soluble in water. Benzaldehyde is completely soluble in alcohol and ether.
• Benzaldehyde is considered to be an aromatic aldehyde.

Applications of Benzaldehyde

• It is used in food and beverages to provide almond flavoring to items.
• The industrial usage of benzaldehyde is that it acts as an intermediate in the production of several organic compounds.
• Another significant use of the odour of benzaldehyde is as a bee repellent.
• Some cosmetic products and personal care products also contain benzaldehyde.
• It is also used in the production of dyes (acridine and aniline dyes), soaps, and perfumes.
• It is also used in cakes and baked goods as almond extract.
• Benzaldehyde is also used in additives like antibacterial and antifungal preservatives.
• It is used as a solvent for oils, resins, ethers, etc.