2-Nitro-4-methylsulphonyl-phenol: Properties & Lab Use Guide

2-Nitro-4-methylsulphonyl-phenol is a nitroaromatic phenolic compound bearing both a nitro group and a methylsulfonyl substituent on the benzene ring, making it a versatile intermediate in organic synthesis and agrochemical research.

Chemical Name

2-Nitro-4-(methylsulfonyl)phenol

SKU / Product Code

N694438

Molecular Formula

C7H7NO5S

Functional Groups

Phenolic –OH, nitro (–NO2), methylsulfonyl (–SO2CH3)

Primary Application

Intermediate in organic synthesis and agrochemical manufacturing (wheat-related research, ref. M891798)

Storage Recommendation

Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from light and incompatible materials

Chemical Identity and Structure

2-Nitro-4-methylsulphonyl-phenol (SKU N694438) is an aromatic phenol in which the benzene ring carries a nitro group (–NO2) at the ortho position (C-2) and a methylsulfonyl group (–SO2CH3) at the para position (C-4) relative to the phenolic hydroxyl. Its molecular formula is C₇H₇NO₅S and its IUPAC name is 2-nitro-4-(methylsulfonyl)phenol.

The electron-withdrawing character of both substituents substantially lowers the pKa of the phenolic proton compared with unsubstituted phenol, increasing the acidity of the compound and influencing its reactivity in nucleophilic and electrophilic transformations. This dual-functionality makes the compound a useful building block for more complex molecules.

Laboratory Handling and Safety Guidelines

As with all nitroaromatic phenolic compounds, appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn when handling 2-Nitro-4-methylsulphonyl-phenol. This includes chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles or a face shield, and a laboratory coat. Operations that may generate dust or aerosols should be conducted in a fume hood.

The compound should be stored in a tightly sealed container in a cool (typically 2–8 °C or as specified on the certificate of analysis), dry, and well-ventilated location, away from direct light, heat sources, and materials incompatible with nitro compounds or sulfones (e.g., strong reducing agents, strong bases). Consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for this product before use for comprehensive hazard, first-aid, and disposal information.

Waste containing this compound should be disposed of in accordance with local, national, and institutional regulations governing nitroaromatic chemical waste.

Applications in Research and Synthesis

2-Nitro-4-methylsulphonyl-phenol serves primarily as a synthetic intermediate. The combination of the activating nitro group and the leaving-group-compatible phenolic hydroxyl facilitates O-arylation, ether formation, and displacement reactions. The methylsulfonyl group can itself act as a leaving group under appropriate nucleophilic aromatic substitution (SNAr) conditions, broadening the compound's synthetic utility.

In agrochemical research contexts, this compound is referenced in the preparation of wheat-related active substances (internal reference M891798), reflecting its role as a precursor or key intermediate in herbicide or plant-protection agent development. Researchers in this area should consult current literature and patent databases for specific synthetic routes and application data.

Beyond agrochemistry, compounds of this structural class appear in medicinal chemistry programs focused on enzyme inhibition and in material science for the preparation of functionalized aromatic polymers.

Quality, Purity, and Ordering Information

Aladdin Scientific supplies 2-Nitro-4-methylsulphonyl-phenol under SKU N694438. Each lot is accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) specifying purity, appearance, and analytical data. Customers are encouraged to request the CoA and SDS prior to ordering for regulatory and safety compliance purposes.

For pricing, available pack sizes, current stock status, and volume discount information, please contact Aladdin Scientific's sales team or visit the product page on the Aladdin Scientific website. Custom quantities and special purity grades may be available upon request.

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary use of 2-Nitro-4-methylsulphonyl-phenol in the laboratory?

2-Nitro-4-methylsulphonyl-phenol is used principally as an organic synthesis intermediate. Its dual electron-withdrawing substituents promote nucleophilic aromatic substitution reactions, and it has been referenced as a precursor in agrochemical (wheat-related active substance) development. It may also appear in medicinal chemistry and materials research contexts.

How should 2-Nitro-4-methylsulphonyl-phenol be stored to maintain stability?

The compound should be stored in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, protected from light and heat. It should be kept away from strong reducing agents and strong bases. Always refer to the specific storage conditions stated on the product's Certificate of Analysis and Safety Data Sheet.

What personal protective equipment is recommended when handling this compound?

Researchers should wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles or a face shield, and a laboratory coat. Any procedures that could generate dust or vapours should be performed inside a certified fume hood. Consult the SDS for full hazard information and first-aid measures before beginning work.

How can I obtain the Certificate of Analysis or Safety Data Sheet for SKU N694438?

The Certificate of Analysis and Safety Data Sheet for N694438 can be requested directly from Aladdin Scientific's customer service team or downloaded from the product page on the Aladdin Scientific website using the lot number printed on your product label.

References

1. Aladdin Scientific product record: 2-Nitro-4-methylsulphonyl-phenol, SKU N694438, internal reference M891798 (wheat-related active substance).
2. March, J. Advanced Organic Chemistry: Reactions, Mechanisms, and Structure. Wiley-Interscience. General reference for nucleophilic aromatic substitution of nitroaromatic compounds.

Products are supplied for research and development use only. Not for use in humans, animals, diagnosis, or therapy.