RANCANG BANGUN ALAT SINTESIS METIL SALISILAT PADA LABORATORIUM KIMIA ORGANIK

Abstract

Design and Development of a Simple Methyl Salicylate Synthesis Apparatus in the Laboratory aims to create a simple and affordable device or system for synthesizing methyl salicylate in a laboratory setting. This research was conducted as an effort to support the implementation of practical laboratory activities. The study focuses on designing and constructing a synthesis apparatus using materials and components that are easily obtainable and relatively simple to assemble.The apparatus is functional for reacting salicylic acid and methanol with an acid catalyst to produce methyl salicylate in an organic chemistry laboratory. In addition to designing and building the apparatus, tests were conducted to evaluate its effectiveness in synthesizing methyl salicylate in the organic chemistry laboratory. The testing involved measuring and characterizing the product obtained, which was a yellowish-brown compound with the distinctive odor of wintergreen oil, a density of 1.171 g/mL, and a refractive index of 1.5313. This research is expected to contribute by providing an alternative methyl salicylate synthesis apparatus that is more affordable and accessible, especially for educational purposes and small- scale research. The apparatus can be used in organic chemistry, pharmaceutical and food chemistry, as well as analytical chemistry laboratory practices. The results of this study have the potential to facilitate laboratory learning processes, making practical sessions easier, more efficient, and capable of improving students’ skills in understanding chemical reaction mechanisms. Furthermore, it encourages innovation in developing simpler, more effective, and more efficient laboratory equipment.