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ε-Caprolactone

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Identification
Molecular formula
C6H10O2
CAS number
502-44-3
IUPAC name
oxepan-2-one
State
State

At room temperature, ε-caprolactone is in a liquid state. It has a relatively low melting point which makes it fluid under standard conditions.

Melting point (Celsius)
-1.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
272.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
237.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
510.15
General information
Molecular weight
114.14g/mol
Molar mass
114.1420g/mol
Density
1.0300g/cm3
Appearence

ε-Caprolactone appears as a colorless liquid with a slight odor. It is clear and has a high refractive index, making it appear shiny or glossy when observed in containers.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Oxepan-2-one

Oxepan-2-one, also known as caprolactone, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics that are noteworthy for various applications. Understanding its solubility can provide insights into its behavior in different environments, including:

  • Solvent Compatibility: Oxepan-2-one is generally soluble in a variety of organic solvents, such as ethanol, acetone, and chloroform.
  • Water Solubility: This compound is not highly soluble in water, which is typical for many cyclic esters.
  • Temperature Effects: Like many other organic compounds, its solubility can increase with temperature, making it more compatible with certain solvents when heated.

This behavior exemplifies the general principle that **polarity** plays a significant role in solubility: compounds with similar polarities tend to dissolve better in one another. Thus, the solubility of oxepan-2-one can lead to varied outcomes in chemical reactions and product formulations, particularly in polymer chemistry where it serves as a monomer.

In conclusion, exploring the solubility of oxepan-2-one enhances our understanding of its potential uses and applications in both industrial and laboratory settings. Remember, the environment and chemical structure are always key factors influencing solubility!

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Oxepan-2-one

Oxepan-2-one, also known as caprolactone, is a fascinating cyclic ester that plays a vital role in various chemical processes. Here are some compelling aspects to consider:

  • Unique Structure: Oxepan-2-one features a seven-membered lactone ring, which contributes to its interesting chemical properties. The lactone structure is crucial in biochemistry, particularly in the formation of polyesters.
  • Versatility: This compound is significant in the synthesis of biodegradable polymers. Its ability to be polymerized allows for the production of materials that are both eco-friendly and useful in various applications.
  • Applications: Oxepan-2-one finds uses in industries such as:
    • Biomedical engineering for drug delivery systems
    • Coating and adhesive formulations
    • Textile and plastic industries
  • Reactivity: The compound is reactive and can undergo various chemical transformations. For instance, it readily participates in ring-opening polymerization, which is a method of synthesizing polycaprolactone—a key polymer in medical applications.
  • Biocompatibility: One of the most exciting aspects of polycaprolactone derived from oxepan-2-one is its biocompatibility, making it suitable for use in medical applications such as sutures and scaffolds for tissue engineering.

In summary, oxepan-2-one is not just another chemical compound; it serves as a cornerstone in the development of innovative materials that address both industrial needs and environmental concerns. Its multifaceted nature makes it an intriguing subject for further research and exploration.

Synonyms
oxepan-2-one
Epsilon-caprolactone
CAPROLACTONE
502-44-3
6-Hexanolactone
hexano-6-lactone
6-Hexanolide
1-Oxa-2-oxocycloheptane
1,6-Hexanolide
Placcel M
epsilon-Caprolactone monomer
2-Oxacycloheptanone
6-Hydroxyhexanoic acid lactone
Hexanoic acid, epsilon-lactone
Hexamethylene oxide, 2-oxo-
2-oxohexamethylene oxide
epsilon-Kaprolakton
HSDB 5670
EINECS 207-938-1
epsilon caprolactone
epsilon-Hexanolactone
UNII-56RE988L1R
6-hydroxyhexanoic acid, epsilon-lactone
BRN 0106919
DTXSID4027159
CHEBI:17915
TONE ECEQ
Hexanoic acid, 6-hydroxy-, epsilon-lactone
56RE988L1R
CAPROLACTONE, EPSILON-
DTXCID007159
EC 207-938-1
5-17-09-00034 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
Hexanoic acid, 6-hydroxy-, lactone
6-Hydroxycaproic acid lactone
207-938-1
2-Oxepanone
Hexan-6-olide
E-Caprolactone
.epsilon.-Caprolactone
6-Caprolactone monomer
e-Caprolactone--d6
CHEMBL373123
Epsilon-?Caprolactone
Hexanoic acid, 6-hydroxy-, .epsilon.-lactone
epsilon-Kaprolakton [Czech]
1219802-08-0
25248-42-4
6-Hexanalactone
epsilon-Hexalactone
ECE
MFCD00003267
epsilon -caprolactone
.epsilon.-Kaprolakton
bmse000493
CAPROLACTONE [HSDB]
epsilon-Caprolactone, 97%
SCHEMBL10850
.epsilon.-Caprolactone monomer
.EPSILON.-HEXANOLACTONE
Hexanoic acid, .epsilon.-lactone
Oxepan-2-one; Epsilon-Caprolactone
Tox21_200445
BBL011394
BDBM50167993
c0059
MFCD00084404
STL146497
Polycaprolactone Mn=60000~65000
AKOS005721108
CS-W016607
FC05808
HY-W015891
NCGC00248619-01
NCGC00257999-01
AS-14738
CAS-502-44-3
FP175786
6-Hexanolactone; 2-Oxepanone;Caprolactone
DB-051739
NS00008481
C01880
D70255
EN300-103355
Q288104
SR-01000944724
6-Hexanolactone;2-Oxepanone;6-Caprolactone monomer
SR-01000944724-1
F0001-1311
InChI=1/C6H10O2/c7-6-4-2-1-3-5-8-6/h1-5H