Characterization of Gandapura Oil by GC and Analysis of Nitration Product Structure Using FTIR Spectroscopy

Theresia Novianti Marpaung (Universitas Negeri Medan)
Marham Sitorus (Universitas Negeri Medan)

Indonesian Journal of Chemical Science and Technology
Vol. 9 No. 2 (2026): JULY 2026

A study has been conducted on the orientation of the nitration reaction of methyl salicylate from wintergreen oil (Gaultheria Procumbens L.) with sulfuric acid catalyst. The research method was carried out through a reflux process between gandapura oil, HNO3, and H2SO4 at a temperature of 56-60°C for 60 minutes, followed by a washing and recrystallization stage using ethyl acetate. The product obtained was then analyzed using FT-IR. The nitration product is a white crystal, indicating that the compound is relatively pure with a melting point of 100-109℃. Based on the FTIR spectrum, it was confirmed that a nitration reaction had occurred with the appearance of characteristic nitrate (NO2+) absorption at 1537 cm⁻1 (asymmetric).