3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol: Properties, Uses & Lab Guidelines
3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol: Properties, Uses & Lab Guidelines
3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol is a phenolic aromatic compound valued in research for its utility as a synthetic building block, reference standard, and flavour/fragrance intermediate, requiring careful handling and storage to maintain reagent integrity and ensure laboratory safety.
- Chemical Name
- 3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol
- Molecular Formula
- C8H10O2
- Molecular Weight
- 138.16 g/mol
- Compound Class
- Phenolic ether (methoxyphenol derivative)
- Primary Applications
- Synthetic chemistry intermediate, flavour/fragrance research, biochemical reference standard
- Storage Recommendation
- Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from oxidising agents and ignition sources
Chemical Identity and Physical Properties
3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol is an aromatic phenolic compound bearing both a methoxy (–OCH₃) group at the 3-position and a methyl (–CH₃) group at the 4-position of the phenol ring. Its molecular formula is C₈H₁₀O₂ and its molecular weight is approximately 138.16 g/mol.
The compound is typically a colourless to pale yellow liquid or low-melting solid at room temperature, exhibiting a characteristic phenolic, slightly woody odour. It is sparingly soluble in water but miscible with common organic solvents such as ethanol, diethyl ether, and dichloromethane. The hydroxyl group confers moderate acidity and hydrogen-bonding capacity, influencing its reactivity in synthetic transformations.
These physicochemical characteristics make 3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol suitable as a starting material or intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in reactions involving O-alkylation, esterification, and coupling chemistry.
Laboratory Handling and Safety Guidelines
As with all phenolic reagents, 3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol should be handled with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Researchers are advised to wear chemical-resistant gloves (e.g., nitrile or neoprene), safety goggles, and a laboratory coat when working with this compound. Operations generating vapour or aerosol should be conducted in a fume hood.
Phenolic compounds can be absorbed through skin and may cause irritation to skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. In the event of skin contact, the affected area should be washed immediately with soap and water. Eye contact requires immediate flushing with copious amounts of water and prompt medical attention.
The compound should be kept away from strong oxidising agents, strong bases, and ignition sources. Appropriate fire-extinguishing media (e.g., CO₂, dry powder) should be available in the working area. Always consult the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) before use, as it provides the most up-to-date hazard and first-aid information specific to the supplied lot.
Storage and Stability Recommendations
To preserve reagent quality and ensure reproducible experimental results, 3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol should be stored in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Exposure to light, moisture, and air should be minimised, as phenolic compounds are susceptible to oxidative discolouration over time.
Recommended storage temperature is typically ambient to slightly below ambient (e.g., 2–25 °C); consult the product label and SDS for lot-specific guidance. The compound should be segregated from incompatible materials, particularly oxidising agents and strong bases.
Upon receipt, it is good laboratory practice to inspect the reagent for any changes in appearance (e.g., darkening or crystallisation) and to record the date of opening. Periodic re-evaluation of purity by techniques such as GC or HPLC is advisable for long-term storage.
Research Applications
3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol finds application across several research disciplines. In synthetic organic chemistry, it serves as a versatile phenolic building block for the preparation of more complex methoxyphenol derivatives, including pharmaceutical intermediates and agrochemical precursors.
In flavour and fragrance science, methoxyphenol derivatives are well-recognised components of natural aromatic profiles. This compound's structural resemblance to naturally occurring guaiacol-type phenolics makes it a useful reference standard and synthetic target in sensory and analytical chemistry research.
Additionally, phenolic compounds like 3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol are investigated for their antioxidant properties in biochemical assays, contributing to structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies aimed at understanding the role of methoxy and alkyl substituents on radical-scavenging activity.
Quality, Purity, and Ordering Information
Aladdin Scientific supplies 3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol (SKU: M728240) with a quality specification suitable for research applications. Researchers should consult the product page and certificate of analysis (CoA) for lot-specific purity data, which is determined using validated analytical methods.
When ordering, lab managers and procurement specialists should verify the required grade and quantity. For bulk or custom-purity requirements, contact Aladdin Scientific's technical support team. Ensure compliance with local regulations for the receipt, storage, and disposal of phenolic reagents.
Proper documentation, including SDS and CoA, accompanies each shipment to support compliance with institutional safety and quality management requirements.
Frequently asked questions
What is 3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol used for in research?
3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol is primarily used as a synthetic building block in organic chemistry, as a reference standard in flavour and fragrance analysis, and as a model compound in antioxidant and structure–activity relationship studies. Its phenolic hydroxyl and methoxy groups make it reactive in a range of chemical transformations.
How should 3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol be stored to maintain its quality?
The reagent should be stored in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from light, moisture, oxidising agents, and ignition sources. Recommended storage temperature is generally 2–25 °C. Consult the product label and SDS for lot-specific instructions.
What safety precautions should be taken when handling this compound?
Wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and a laboratory coat. Conduct all operations involving vapour generation in a fume hood. In case of skin or eye contact, rinse immediately with water and seek medical advice. Always consult the current SDS before use for comprehensive hazard information.
What is the molecular formula and weight of 3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol?
The molecular formula of 3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol is C₈H₁₀O₂, and its molecular weight is approximately 138.16 g/mol.
How can I verify the purity of the supplied 3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol?
Purity can be verified by consulting the Certificate of Analysis (CoA) provided with each lot, which reports results from validated analytical methods such as GC or HPLC. For long-term stored material, periodic in-house purity testing by GC or HPLC is recommended.
References
- Aladdin Scientific Product Page: 3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol, SKU M728240. Aladdin Scientific.
- Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for 3-Methoxy-4-methylphenol. Consult current version supplied with product.
- March, J. Advanced Organic Chemistry: Reactions, Mechanisms, and Structure. 5th ed. Wiley-Interscience. General reference for phenolic compound chemistry.
Products are supplied for research and development use only. Not for use in humans, animals, diagnosis, or therapy.