Prediction of Solubility using Organic solvents

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the possibility of predicting the solubility of various stains in organic solvents based on theoretical considerations and the chemical properties of the substances involved. The scope includes conceptual exploration of solubility principles and practical applications in stain removal.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes a personal method for stain removal using a sequence of solvents and poses the question of whether solubility can be predicted chemically.
  • Another participant suggests that if the stain and material are known, predictions can be made regarding solubility.
  • A further clarification is made regarding the theoretical basis for predicting solubility, emphasizing the importance of the chemical formula of organic substances.
  • It is proposed that the principle of "like dissolves like" can be used to determine solubility, and reference is made to polarity indices found in solvent handbooks.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that knowledge of the stain and its polarity is crucial for predicting solubility in solvents, but the discussion does not reach a consensus on the feasibility of making such predictions solely based on theoretical considerations.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the complexities involved in predicting solubility, such as the need for specific chemical information and the potential limitations of relying solely on polarity indices.

boblalux
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Whenever I have a stain (paint, glue etc), I attempt removing it after the following scheme (if unsuccessful, I proceed to the next solvent):
Water, soapy water, alcohol, white spirit, acetone.

My question is...
Is it possible to chemically PREDICT which solvent will be succesqsful on which material/stain?
 
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If you know what the stain is and what the material is - sure.
 
What I actually mean, is it possible on the basis of theoretical consideration of the formula of any organic substance, to find whether it is soluble in an organic solvent.
 
boblalux said:
What I actually mean, is it possible on the basis of theoretical consideration of the formula of any organic substance, to find whether it is soluble in an organic solvent.

Yes. Since like dissolves like. Any LC handbook will have a list of solvents with a polarity index. If you know what the stain is (polar vs. non-polar), then you can find a solvent with a suitable polarity from the list of solvents.
 

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