Ethyl 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-Methylbenzoate: Properties & Uses

Ethyl 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate is a hydroxyl-substituted aromatic ester of significant interest in organic synthesis and pharmaceutical research due to its reactive phenolic hydroxyl groups and ester functionality.

Chemical Name

Ethyl 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate

SKU

E422874

Compound Class

Hydroxy-substituted aromatic benzoate ester

Functional Groups

Two phenolic hydroxyl groups, one ester group, one methyl substituent

Primary Application

Intermediate in organic synthesis and pharmaceutical research

Reference

E156523

What Is Ethyl 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate?

Ethyl 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate is an aromatic ester formed from 2,4-dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoic acid and ethanol. Its structure features a benzene ring bearing two phenolic hydroxyl groups at positions 2 and 4, a methyl group at position 6, and an ethyl ester at the carboxylic acid position. This combination of functional groups makes it a versatile building block in organic synthesis. The compound belongs to the broader class of hydroxybenzoate esters, which are widely studied for their synthetic utility and biological relevance.

At Aladdin Scientific, this compound is available under SKU E422874, and researchers may also refer to the related reference E156523 for additional context.

Chemical Properties and Structure

The molecular structure of Ethyl 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate incorporates several key features that define its reactivity. The two free phenolic hydroxyl groups at positions 2 and 4 are capable of participating in hydrogen bonding, etherification, esterification, and oxidation reactions, making them primary sites for chemical modification. The intramolecular hydrogen bond possible between the 2-hydroxyl group and the adjacent ester carbonyl may influence the compound's conformational stability and reactivity.

The ethyl ester moiety can undergo standard transesterification or hydrolysis under acidic or basic conditions, providing access to the parent carboxylic acid or alternative ester derivatives. The methyl group at position 6 exerts a steric influence on the adjacent ester group and ortho hydroxyl, which can affect reaction selectivity. These properties collectively make this compound a useful substrate and intermediate in multi-step synthetic routes.

Applications in Research and Synthesis

Ethyl 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate serves as a synthetic intermediate in the preparation of more complex aromatic compounds. Researchers utilize it in the synthesis of natural product analogs, pharmaceutical candidates, and specialty materials where a hydroxy-substituted aromatic ester scaffold is required. The phenolic hydroxyl groups can be selectively protected, alkylated, or acylated to generate a range of derivatives for structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies.

In medicinal chemistry, hydroxybenzoate esters of this type are investigated for their potential as precursors to bioactive molecules. The compound may also find use as a reference standard or analytical reagent when characterizing structurally related substances. Procurement teams should note that availability and lot-specific data, including purity certificates, are accessible through Aladdin Scientific's product portal for SKU E422874.

Handling, Storage, and Safety Considerations

As with all laboratory reagents, Ethyl 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate should be handled following standard laboratory safety practices. Personnel should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and a laboratory coat. Work should be performed in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood to minimize inhalation exposure to dust or vapors.

The compound should be stored in a tightly sealed container, away from moisture, heat, and incompatible materials such as strong oxidizing agents and strong bases, which could react with the phenolic hydroxyl or ester groups. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided by Aladdin Scientific for SKU E422874 for comprehensive hazard information, first-aid measures, and disposal guidelines. Always consult the current SDS before use, as formulations and regulatory classifications may be updated.

Ordering and Product Information

Ethyl 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate is available from Aladdin Scientific under SKU E422874. Researchers and procurement teams can request quotations, check current stock levels, and download the corresponding Certificate of Analysis (CoA) and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) directly from the Aladdin Scientific website or by contacting customer service. The reference number E156523 may be used for cross-referencing related products or alternative catalog entries.

For bulk orders, custom packaging, or questions about product specifications, purity grades, and regulatory compliance documentation, please contact Aladdin Scientific's technical support team. Aladdin Scientific is committed to providing high-quality research reagents with full analytical support to meet the needs of the global scientific community.

Frequently asked questions

What is the chemical structure of Ethyl 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate?

Ethyl 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate is a benzene ring derivative bearing hydroxyl groups at positions 2 and 4, a methyl group at position 6, and an ethyl ester at the carboxylate position. This arrangement provides two reactive phenolic hydroxyl groups, a hydrolyzable ester, and steric influence from the ortho methyl group.

What are the primary research applications of Ethyl 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate?

This compound is primarily used as a synthetic intermediate in organic and medicinal chemistry for the preparation of complex aromatic derivatives, natural product analogs, and pharmaceutical candidates. Its two phenolic hydroxyl groups allow selective functionalization for the generation of diverse derivatives in structure–activity relationship studies.

How should Ethyl 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate be stored?

The compound should be stored in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated location, away from moisture, heat sources, strong oxidizing agents, and strong bases. Always consult the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for SKU E422874 from Aladdin Scientific for the most up-to-date storage and handling recommendations.

What is the Aladdin Scientific SKU for Ethyl 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate?

Ethyl 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate is listed under SKU E422874 in the Aladdin Scientific catalog. A related reference number, E156523, is also noted and may be used for cross-referencing related products.

Can the ester group in Ethyl 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate be hydrolyzed?

Yes, the ethyl ester group can be hydrolyzed under standard acidic or basic aqueous conditions to yield the corresponding 2,4-dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoic acid and ethanol. This transformation is commonly employed in synthetic sequences where the free carboxylic acid is required for further functionalization.

References

1. Aladdin Scientific product page: Ethyl 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate, SKU E422874, reference E156523.
2. March, J. Advanced Organic Chemistry: Reactions, Mechanisms, and Structure. Wiley-Interscience. General reference for ester hydrolysis and phenol reactivity.
3. Smith, M. B. March's Advanced Organic Chemistry. General reference for aromatic substitution and ester chemistry.

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