1, AB2,
Atienza, Von Ervy; Alcantara, Mark Jun Sir Kevin Sison May 24, 2010
Abstract
Organic synthesis is a branch of chemical synthesis dealing with the production of organic compounds
by organic reactions. Aspirin is one of the most widely used analgesics since its invention in 1853. The main
objective of this experiment is to produce acetylsalicylic acid via esterification. Aspirin (wanted product) and
acetic acid (by product) were produced by reacting salicylic acid with acetic anhydride and catalyzed using
phosphoric acid. After the reaction, the products were recrystallized to enhance the purity of the resulting
compound. The product was then subjected to physical and chemical tests and the results obtained were
recorded. Several methods and information regarding organic reactions learned from previous experiments
were used.
Keywords: Synthesis, Acetylsalicylic acid, Salicylic acid, Esterification, Recrystallization, Suction Filtration
Introduction
Results
Physical test
Appearance – crystalline
Texture – fine
Color – white
Odor – vinegar-like
Melting point – 135 °C (275 °F)
Application References:
http://www.drcarman.info/kem220lb/01lab220.pdf
A. Another pharmaceutical product derived
from salicylic acid is salol (phenyl
http://capital2.capital.edu/faculty/wbecktel/AsprinL.h
salicylate), the phenyl ester of salicylic acid.
tm
Since phenol cannot be esterified by direct
interaction with salicylic acid, some indirect
http://www.scribd.com/doc/28982674/Synthesis-of-
method must be used. Write equations for a
Aspirin?secret_password=&autodown=pdf
sequence that might be used to prepare
salol from phenol and salicylic acid.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/13771924/Aspirin-
Synthesis-Data-Compilation