CH2CHCHO
CH2CHCHO, commonly written to denote acrolein, is the simplest α,β-unsaturated aldehyde. Its structure is CH2=CH-CHO, and its molecular formula is C3H4O. It is a colorless to slightly yellow liquid with a strong, acrid odor. It is highly reactive, especially toward nucleophiles, due to conjugation between the carbon–carbon double bond and the aldehyde carbonyl. It polymerizes readily and is usually stabilized with inhibitors when handled.
Production and occurrence: Acrolein is produced industrially by catalytic oxidation of propylene in the presence of
Reactions and uses: As an α,β-unsaturated aldehyde, acrolein is a versatile electrophile that participates in Michael
Safety: Acrolein is highly toxic, a strong eye and respiratory irritant, and a potential carcinogen. It is