Biphenyl

Types of Biphenyl

Biphenyl is a chemical compound with the chemical formula C14H10. It is a colorless liquid with a slightly greasy feel and an aromatic smell. Biphenyl is made from coal tar or it can be synthesized from the reaction between phenyl lithium and benzoyl chloride.

• Biphenyls are categorized according to the nature of their substituent groups. Listed below are the main types of biphenyl.

• Substituted biphenyls include biphenyl compounds in which one or more hydrogen atoms in the biphenyl structure have been replaced by other atoms or groups of atoms, called substituents. These are categorized into mono- and polysubstituted biphenyls depending on their substituent groups.

• Polybiphenyl aromatic hydrocarbons are organic compounds that contain two or more fused aromatic rings. A common example of this category is superior bay 20 (SBP20), a complex chemical mixture consisting of numerous individual chemical compounds. Its structure is made up of biphenyls that are further substituted by other groups.

• Amino biphenyl refers to a group of organic compounds having two connected phenyl bases and an amine functional group. These compounds are primarily used in the synthesis of dyes and other organic materials.

• Amino biphenyl 4 is an organic compound derived from biphenyl in which two hydrogen atoms are replaced with amino functional groups. It is mainly used in the production of aniline dyes and other related chemicals.

• Chloro biphenyls are compounds formed by attaching chlorine atoms to biphenyl. These compounds are often used in organic synthesis; however, some are highly toxic and dangerous to the environment.

Features of Biphenyl

• Solubility:

  Chemical compounds such as OR Solvent are highly soluble in organic solvents such as alcohol, ether, and acetone. However, they have a low solubility in water.

• Molecular weight:

  Biphenyl has a molecular weight of 178.23 grams per mole. This means that each mole of biphenyl contains 178.23 grams.

• Melting and boiling point:

  The melting point of biphenyl is about 69.5 °C. The boiling point is about 256.2 °C. This means that at temperatures below 69.5 °C, biphenyl will solidify and above 256.2 °C, it will evaporate.

• Flash point:

  The flash point of biphenyl is 100 °C. This means that when heated to temperatures above 100 °C, it will release flammable vapors.

• Reactivity:

  Biphenyl is relatively stable; however, it can react with strong oxidizing agents such as nitric acid and potassium permanganate. When this happens, they tend to undergo oxidation reactions and produce carbon dioxide and other toxic by-products.

• Thermal conductivity property:

  Biphenyl possesses good thermal conductivity since it is often employed in heat transfer applications. It has an ability to efficiently transfer heat from one area to another.

• Heat capacity:

  Biphenyl has a relatively high specific heat capacity. This means that the compound can store a considerable amount of heat without undergoing a drastic change in temperature.

• Density property:

  Biphenyl is a dense liquid with a density of approximately 1.2 grams per cubic centimeter. This property makes it sink when placed in another liquid that is less dense than it.

Industry Applications of Biphenyl

• Heat transfer fluids

  Biphenyl is widely used in heat transfer applications due to its high boiling point and low freezing point. It can be used in chemical plants to transfer heat between different process streams. It can be used in reactors and distillation columns to maintain the desired temperature.

• Coolants in electrical equipment

  Biphenyl is used as a coolant in systems such as transformers and capacitors, where it works to dissipate heat and keep the components at optimal operating temperatures. In these sealed systems, the biphenyl based fluid is used to absorb and carry away the heat generated by the electrical components while maintaining system stability.

• Synthesis of other chemicals

  Biphenyl is used as a starting material or intermediate in the synthesis of other chemicals. One of its major derivatives is phenylacetone.

• Industrial solvents

  Biphenyl is employed as a solvent in various industrial processes, particularly for dissolving resins, oils, and other organic compounds, due to its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances without significantly altering their chemical structure.

• Biological research

  Biphenyl has been used in biological research as a carbon source for certain bacteria. This allows researchers to study microbial metabolism and potential bioremediation applications.

• Pesticides and herbicides

  Some biphenyl derivatives have been used in agriculture as active ingredients in certain pesticides and herbicides, because of their ability to target specific pests or weeds while minimizing harm to non-target organisms.

• Dyes and pigments

  Biphenyl compounds are used in the dye and pigment industry for the synthesis of various colorants. Biphenyl substances are incorporated into chemical structures to obtain specific shades and improve their affinity for different materials.

• Rubber and plastic additives

  Biphenyl is used as an additive in rubber and plastic manufacturing to improve product properties such as flexibility and durability. These compounds act as a plasticizer or antioxidant, enhancing the performance and lifespan of the final product.

How to Choose Biphenyl

When selecting pesticide containing biphenyl, there are several factors that should be considered to ensure suitability for the intended application.

• Purity and quality:

  One should ensure that the chosen biphenyl has a high purity level with minimal impurities. This is especially important when biphenyl will be used in chemical synthesis or high-precision industrial processes. To check for purity, one can use chromatographic techniques such as HPLC or GC.

• Source and availability:

  Buyers should consider and ensure they have reliable sources for biphenyl, such as reputable chemical suppliers who specialize in industrial-grade chemicals. It is also a necessity to consider the consistent availability of biphenyl so that the users’ operational needs are met.

• Compliance and safety:

  Biphenyl can be hazardous; therefore, buyers should check for safety data sheets to understand the handling, storage, and disposal requirements. Confirm that the product complies with local environmental regulations and occupational safety standards. This can minimize risks and ensure legal compliance.

• Specification and grade:

  Determining the required specifications for biphenyl is essential. Find out if the business needs pharmaceutical, industrial, or research grade biphenyl. Each of these grades has different levels of purity and quality. Buyers should check the required physical properties such as melting and boiling points to ensure suitability for the intended application.

• Cost and logistics:

  For businesses considering buying biphenyl in wholesale, cost is an important consideration. Compare the costs from different suppliers. But also consider the costs of logistics such as shipping, storage, and transportation. This will determine the overall cost of purchasing biphenyl.

• Quantity:

  Assess the business’ needs and determine the quantity of biphenyl based liquid that is required. Different quantity needs can be based on the buye's business scale and the nature of the operations. These will help make an informed decision and avoid wastage or shortages.

Q and A

Q1: What is biphenyl used for?

A1: Biphenyl chemical may be used alone or with other chemicals in various industries. For instance, it is used as a coolant in electrical transformers to help disperse heat. In the chemical industry, it is used as a heat transfer fluid to maintain required temperatures in different processes. In the lab, it can be used as a solvent for various organic compounds.

Q2: Why is biphenyl toxic?

A2: Although doesn't kill immediately, biphenyl substance can be toxic because it can disrupt the normal functioning of cells by affecting enzymes and other cellular components. When it gets to the body, it gets absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed to different organs. This makes it interfere with the cellular processes needed for nutrients and energy production.

Q3: What does biphenyl do in the body?

A3: When biphenyl enters the body through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact, it gets absorbed into the bloodstream where it travels to different tissues and organs depending on factors like solubility. Exposure can affect the liver, kidneys, nervous system, skin, and eyes by causing irritation, inflammation, and damage through chemical reactions.

Q4: What are the effects of biphenyl on the environment?

A4: Because of its high toxicity, biphenyl can pose a significant environmental threat. When released into water bodies, it can harm aquatic life by bioaccumulating in the tissues of fish and other organisms. This bioaccumulation can disrupt the food chain. In soil, biphenyl can negatively affect microorganisms and disrupt the natural ecosystem.