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Congo Red

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Identification
Molecular formula
C32H22N6Na2O6S2
CAS number
573-58-0
IUPAC name
2-[[4-[[4-[(6-anilino-2-hydroxy-3-sulfo-1-naphthyl)azo]-1-naphthyl]azo]-6-sulfo-1-naphthyl]azo]benzene-1,4-disulfonic acid
State
State

Congo Red is commonly encountered as a solid powder at room temperature and is often used in dyeing textiles and as a pH indicator that shifts color from blue to red as pH varies.

Melting point (Celsius)
360.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
633.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
0.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
0.00
General information
Molecular weight
696.67g/mol
Molar mass
696.6650g/mol
Density
1.0000g/cm3
Appearence

Congo Red is a dark red to brownish powder. It is a synthetic dye characterized by its intense, bright red color when in powder form and turns blue in acidic solutions.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 2-[[4-[[4-[(6-anilino-2-hydroxy-3-sulfo-1-naphthyl)azo]-1-naphthyl]azo]-6-sulfo-1-naphthyl]azo]benzene-1,4-disulfonic acid

This complex organic compound, sometimes referred to as Acid Red 52 or a similar dye, exhibits notable solubility characteristics. Due to its multi-sulfonic acid groups, the compound is expected to be:

  • Water-soluble: The presence of sulfonic acid groups enhances its polarity, allowing it to dissolve well in water.
  • Soluble in polar solvents: In addition to water, it may show solubility in other polar solvents, increasing its versatility in various applications.
  • Less soluble in non-polar solvents: The compound's highly polar nature makes it poorly soluble in non-polar solvents such as hydrocarbons.

These solubility properties are critical for applications in dyeing and research, as they affect the compound's interaction with different materials. Understanding its solubility can also aid in optimizing conditions for its use in various chemical processes. As a concluding note, it is often emphasized that:

"Solubility can significantly influence the performance of a compound in practical applications."

Thus, careful consideration of solubility is essential when working with such a complex chemical structure.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about 2-[[4-[[4-[(6-anilino-2-hydroxy-3-sulfo-1-naphthyl)azo]-1-naphthyl]azo]-6-sulfo-1-naphthyl]azo]benzene-1,4-disulfonic acid

This compound is an intriguing member of the azo dye family and is known for its vibrant colors and complex structure. Azo dyes are characterized by the presence of the functional group azobenzene (–N=N–), and this particular compound showcases fascinating properties due to its extensive naphthalene and sulfonic acid substitutions.

Key Characteristics:

  • Color and Applications: As with many azo dyes, this compound possesses a brilliant color, making it valuable in various applications, particularly in textiles and printing.
  • Sulfonic Acids: The presence of sulfonic acid groups enhances the solubility of the dye in water, allowing for ease of application and fixation in different media.
  • Stability: Azo compounds can sometimes be sensitive to light and heat; however, this dye's intricate structure may contribute to its overall stability under various conditions.

The compound's structural complexity, with multiple aromatic rings and sulfonic acid groups, allows it to engage in various chemical reactions, enabling it to be tailored for specific purposes. As a model compound in dye chemistry, it not only plays a role in industrial applications but also serves as a subject of study in terms of environmental impact and safety. Researchers are increasingly looking at the behavior of such compounds in ecosystems, particularly because some azo dyes can break down into potentially hazardous substances.

Looking Ahead:

As the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly dyeing solutions grows, the exploration of compounds like this one will be essential. Scientists are investigating alternatives and modifications to traditional azo dyes that maintain the desired aesthetic qualities without compromising environmental integrity. The future of azo dyes, including this compound, is likely to cross paths with innovations in chemical engineering and green chemistry.