Mesityl oxide
Mesityl oxide, CAS 141-79-7, is an organic compound with the linear formula (CH3)2C=CHCOCH3. This unsaturated ketone serves as a versatile intermediate in chemical synthesis. It is primarily used in the preparation of more complex molecules, such as dipyrrin derivatives essential for chlorin and oxochlorin synthesis, and as a neutral marker in analytical chemistry, like capillary electrophoresis.
- IUPAC
- 4-Methyl-3-penten-2-one
- Synonyms
- 4-Methyl-3-penten-2-oneIsopropylideneacetoneAcetone, mesitylbeta,beta-Dimethylacrolein

Synthesis of Dipyrrin Derivatives
Mesityl oxide is employed in the synthesis of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1,3,3-trimethyldipyrrin, a key building block for creating chlorins and oxochlorins.
Electrophoresis Marker
It functions as a neutral marker in the preparation of imidazole-coated capillary columns used in electrophoresis.
Organic Synthesis Intermediate
As a ketone with an alpha, beta-unsaturated system, it is a useful synthon in various organic transformations.
| Molecular weight | 98.14 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | (CH3)2C=CHCOCH3 |
| Assay | ≥90% (GC) |
| Grade | technical grade |
| Boiling point | 130 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 0.858 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.442(lit.)n20/D 1.45 |
| Melting point | -41.5 °C(lit.) |
| Application | Mesityl oxide has been used:• in the synthesis of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1,3,3-trimethyldipyrrin, a crucial building block in the rational synthesis of chlorins and oxochlorins1• as neutral marker in the preparation of imidazole-coated capillary column for electrophoresis2 |


Hazard statements
- H226Flammable liquid and vapour
- H302Harmful if swallowed
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H331Toxic if inhaled
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P305IF IN EYES
- P311Call a POISON CENTER or doctor
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 31 °C / 87.8 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 1229 3 / PGIII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 1 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xn |
| Risk statements (R) | 10-20/21/22-36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 25 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Mesityl oxide used for?
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Mesityl oxide is used in organic synthesis, notably for preparing dipyrrin derivatives which are important for chlorin and oxochlorin synthesis. It also serves as a neutral marker in analytical techniques like electrophoresis.
What is the CAS number and formula for Mesityl oxide?
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The CAS number for Mesityl oxide is 141-79-7, and its linear formula is (CH3)2C=CHCOCH3.
What is the typical grade and purity of Mesityl oxide supplied by TSS?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Mesityl oxide in technical grade with an assay of ≥90% (GC).
What are the primary hazards associated with Mesityl oxide?
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Mesityl oxide is a flammable liquid and vapour (H226). It is harmful if swallowed, in contact with skin, or if inhaled (H302 + H312 + H331). It also causes skin irritation (H315), serious eye irritation (H319), and may cause respiratory irritation (H335).
How is Mesityl oxide packed and shipped by TSS?
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Mesityl oxide is packed and shipped in compliance with relevant transport regulations, classified under UN 1229, Hazard Class 3, Packing Group III.
How can I request a quote for Mesityl oxide?
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To request a quote, please contact our sales department with your specific requirements, including the quantity needed.
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