Cinnamatebased

Cinnamate-based refers to chemical entities that incorporate the cinnamate moiety, typically derivatives of cinnamic acid (3-phenyl-2-propenoic acid) or esters formed from cinnamic acid and an alcohol. This designation covers simple cinnamate esters as well as more complex monomers, oligomers, and polymers in which the cinnamate functional group plays a defining role in structure or reactivity.

Common examples include simple cinnamates such as methyl cinnamate, ethyl cinnamate, and benzyl cinnamate, which are used in flavors and fragrances. In cosmetics, cinnamate-based UV filters such as octyl methoxycinnamate (octinoxate) are well known for absorbing ultraviolet light. In polymer science, cinnamate-based monomers and crosslinkable esters exploit the photoreactivity of the cinnamate group, enabling UV-triggered crosslinking in coatings and 3D-printed resins.

Synthesis and properties: cinnamate-based compounds are typically prepared by esterification of cinnamic acid with the chosen alcohol, using standard coupling or acid-catalysis methods. The cinnamate unit provides a conjugated system that absorbs UV light and often exists predominantly in the trans configuration. In photopolymer systems, cinnamate esters can undergo [2+2] cycloaddition upon UV exposure, allowing light-driven crosslinking and network formation.

Applications and considerations: cinnamate-based materials are used in cosmetics as UV filters, in flavors and fragrances, and as building blocks for photopolymer coatings and inks. Safety and environmental considerations vary by compound; some cinnamate-based UV filters have faced regulatory scrutiny or restrictions in certain regions due to health, environmental, or reef-safety concerns.