What Is 2-Methoxy-4-(2-nitroethyl)phenol?

2-Methoxy-4-(2-nitroethyl)phenol is an aromatic organic compound bearing three key functional groups on the benzene ring: a free hydroxyl group (phenol), a methoxy substituent at the 2-position, and a 2-nitroethyl side chain at the 4-position. This combination of electron-donating (methoxy, hydroxyl) and electron-withdrawing (nitroethyl) groups makes it a versatile building block in organic synthesis.

The compound is structurally related to naturally occurring phenylpropanoids and is of interest as a synthetic intermediate for the preparation of more complex molecules, including potential pharmacophores and fine chemicals. Aladdin Scientific supplies this compound under SKU M731001 for research and development purposes.

Chemical Properties and Specifications

The molecular formula of 2-Methoxy-4-(2-nitroethyl)phenol is C9H11NO4, giving a molecular weight of approximately 197.19 g/mol. The compound contains a nitro group appended via a two-carbon ethylene tether to the para position of the guaiacol (2-methoxyphenol) scaffold.

Key physicochemical characteristics include moderate lipophilicity due to the aromatic core, hydrogen-bond donor capacity from the phenolic –OH, and hydrogen-bond acceptor capacity from both the methoxy oxygen and the nitro group. Researchers should consult the certificate of analysis (CoA) provided with each lot for confirmed purity, melting point, and spectral data specific to the supplied batch.

Note: Specific purity values and physical constants (e.g., exact melting point, LogP) are batch-dependent; always refer to the lot-specific CoA or contact Aladdin Scientific technical support for detailed specifications.

Storage, Handling, and Safety Considerations

As with most nitro-substituted aromatic compounds, 2-Methoxy-4-(2-nitroethyl)phenol should be handled with appropriate laboratory precautions. Personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, safety glasses, and a laboratory coat is recommended. Operations that may generate dust or aerosols should be conducted in a well-ventilated fume hood.

Storage recommendations for phenolic nitro compounds generally include cool, dry conditions away from strong oxidizers, bases, and reducing agents, in tightly sealed containers. Researchers should consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided by Aladdin Scientific for M731001 for specific GHS hazard classifications, first-aid measures, and disposal guidance applicable to their jurisdiction.

Important: Always review the current SDS before first use. Regulatory classification and specific hazard statements should be verified against the supplied SDS document.

Common Laboratory Applications

2-Methoxy-4-(2-nitroethyl)phenol serves primarily as a synthetic intermediate in organic chemistry. The nitroethyl group can undergo further transformations — such as reduction to the corresponding amine (a β-arylethylamine motif), participation in Michael additions, or Nef reaction conditions — enabling access to a range of downstream target molecules.

The guaiacol (2-methoxyphenol) core is a structural motif found in various bioactive natural products and pharmaceutically relevant scaffolds. Consequently, this compound may be used in the synthesis of analogues for medicinal chemistry studies, natural product total synthesis, or as a reference standard in analytical method development.

Researchers in agrochemistry and materials science may also find utility in this compound as a functionalized phenolic building block. Specific published synthetic routes using this exact compound should be identified by the user through primary literature searches.

Ordering and Technical Support

2-Methoxy-4-(2-nitroethyl)phenol is available from Aladdin Scientific under SKU M731001. To place an order, visit the Aladdin Scientific website, contact your regional sales representative, or submit a purchase order through your institution's procurement system.

For technical questions regarding purity specifications, certificate of analysis, custom quantity requirements, or compatibility with specific experimental workflows, contact Aladdin Scientific's technical support team. Bulk pricing and custom packaging inquiries can be directed to the sales department.

Ensure that your institution's import and handling permits are in order for nitro-containing organic compounds, as regulatory requirements vary by country and institution.