Skip to main content

Butylated hydroxytoluene

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C15H24O
CAS number
128-37-0
IUPAC name
4-tert-butyl-2-methyl-phenol
State
State

Butylated hydroxytoluene is a solid at room temperature. It remains stable under ordinary conditions and is typically in a powder or crystalline form.

Melting point (Celsius)
70.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
343.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
265.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
538.15
General information
Molecular weight
220.35g/mol
Molar mass
220.3540g/mol
Density
1.0480g/cm3
Appearence

Butylated hydroxytoluene appears as a white crystalline powder. It is also available as a waxy solid. The coloration is typically clear white when pure and can appear off-white if impurities are present.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of 4-tert-butyl-2-methyl-phenol

4-tert-butyl-2-methyl-phenol, often known as a phenolic compound, exhibits notable solubility characteristics that are important for various applications. Understanding its solubility can aid in predictions of behavior in different environments.

Solubility Profile

The solubility of 4-tert-butyl-2-methyl-phenol can be influenced by several factors:

  • Polarity: As a phenol, it contains both a phenyl ring and a hydroxyl group. This contributes to its partial polarity and allows it to engage in hydrogen bonding with polar solvents.
  • Solvent Type: It is relatively more soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, acetone, or chloroform compared to water due to the hydrophobic nature of the tert-butyl and methyl groups.
  • Temperature Dependence: The solubility often increases with temperature, which is a common trend observed with many organic compounds.

In summary, while C10H14O (4-tert-butyl-2-methyl-phenol) is not highly soluble in water, its interaction with organic solvents showcases its versatility in various chemical reactions. Knowing these properties enhances our understanding of how this compound can be utilized effectively across different fields.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About 4-tert-butyl-2-methyl-phenol

4-tert-butyl-2-methyl-phenol, often referred to as >"BHT"<, is a fascinating compound widely recognized for its properties as an antioxidant. This compound plays a significant role across various industries, especially in food preservation and cosmetics. Here are some intriguing aspects to consider:

  • Antioxidant Properties: BHT is famously used to prevent the oxidation of fats and oils in food products, which can lead to rancidity. By slowing down these oxidative processes, BHT helps enhance the shelf life of a variety of food items.
  • Applications Beyond Food: Besides its role in food preservation, BHT is commonly found in personal care products such as lotions and cosmetics. It helps maintain the stability of these products by protecting them from oxidative degradation.
  • Safety and Controversy: The usage of BHT has raised discussions regarding its safety. While many regulatory bodies, including the FDA, generally regard it as safe in low concentrations, some studies have prompted further investigation into its long-term health effects.
  • Natural Alternatives: In the quest for healthier options, there is a growing interest in natural antioxidants. Compounds such as rosemary extract and vitamin E are being explored as possible substitutes for synthetic antioxidants like BHT.
  • Structural Significance: The presence of the tert-butyl group significantly influences BHT's physical properties and reactivity, making it a unique chemical structure that is both robust and versatile.

As a compound, 4-tert-butyl-2-methyl-phenol stands at the intersection of innovation and tradition, showcasing the balance between enhancing product longevity and consumer health concerns. The duality of its application and ongoing research in its safety continues to make it a compound of interest among scientists and consumers alike.

Synonyms
4-tert-Butyl-2-methylphenol
98-27-1
4-(tert-Butyl)-2-methylphenol
4-tert-Butyl-o-cresol
2-Methyl-4-tert-butylphenol
p-tert-Butyl-o-cresol
Phenol, 4-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-2-methyl-
o-Cresol, 4-tert-butyl-
Phenol, 4-tert-butyl-2-methyl-
NSC 8477
EINECS 202-651-8
4-tert-Butyl-2-methyl-phenol
BRN 1817502
MFCD00020047
DTXSID5059163
4-06-00-03398 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
NSC-8477
NSC-98355
Phenol,1-dimethylethyl)-2-methyl-
4-?(tert-?Butyl)?-?2-?methylphenol
4-(T-BUTYL)-2-CRESOL
NSC8477
2-methyl-4-t-butylphenol
NCIOpen2_001766
SCHEMBL171132
CHEMBL442536
X43H4E9XT2
DTXCID8049046
NSC98355
AKOS000120802
CS-W022029
AS-10366
SY113193
NS00040528
EN300-20901
O11102
4-tert-Butyl-2-methylphenol, >=97.0% (GC)