Synthesis of Aspirin

Abstract: In this experiment, acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) was synthesized from salicylic acid and acetic anhydride, with concentrated sulfuric acid used as a catalyst. To achieve this we synthesized the acetylsalicylic acid and then purified via recrystallization. Upon completion, we obtained a product with a melting point of 1040C-1310C, which, when compared with the known melting point of aspirin (1360C-1400C) led to the conclusion that the obtained sample of acetylsalicylic acid was impure aspirin.

Purpose: The purpose of this experiment is to synthesize and recrystallize acetylsalicylic acid and characterize the product.

Objective: Calculation of mass percent compositions

Solving stoichiometry problems

Discuss crystallization

Solving a cost-of-production problem

Balancing chemical equations

Analyzing melting point data

Logging chemical waste

Introduction: Acetylsalicylic acid, commonly known as aspirin, is currently one of the most used pain-relief products available on the market. The majority of the medicinal properties, however, stem from the original compound, salicylic acid. However, salicylic acid was found to irritate mucous membranes due to its acidic properties. As such, it was proposed to react salicylic acid with acetic anhydride to yield acetylsalicylic acid, thus removing the acidic properties while retaining the medicinal value. Specifically, acetylsalicylic acid has been shown to block the synthesis of prostaglandins, substances which are thought to be responsible for causing pain, fever, and local inflammation.

Aspirin is prepared by treating salicylic acid with acetic anhydride, causing the hydroxyl group to form into an acetyl group, resulting in acetyl salicylic acid and a byproduct of acetic acid. and in this instance, sulfuric acid is used as a catalyst. The esterification reaction occurs as...