Propynal

Propynal, also known as propargyl aldehyde or acrolein dimer, is a chemical compound with the formula C3H2O. It is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor and is highly reactive. Propynal is an unsaturated aldehyde, meaning it contains both a carbon-carbon triple bond and an aldehyde functional group. This combination of functional groups makes it a versatile building block in organic synthesis.

Propynal can be synthesized through various methods, including the oxidation of propargyl alcohol or the reaction of acetylene with carbon monoxide. Its high reactivity stems from the presence of the triple bond and the aldehyde group, which readily participate in addition reactions. It can undergo polymerization, Diels-Alder reactions, and nucleophilic additions.

Due to its reactive nature, propynal is often handled with care. It is flammable and can be irritating to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Its applications are found in the synthesis of various organic compounds, including pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and polymers. It serves as an intermediate in the production of furan derivatives and other heterocyclic compounds. The compound's distinct chemical properties make it a valuable reagent in research and industrial chemistry.