What Is 4-Chloro-2-methoxyphenol?

4-Chloro-2-methoxyphenol (CAS 7368-72-1, also known as 4-chloroguaiacol) is an aromatic organic compound belonging to the chlorinated guaiacol family. Its structure features a benzene ring substituted with a hydroxyl group at position 1, a methoxy (–OCH₃) group at position 2, and a chlorine atom at position 4. This combination of electron-donating and electron-withdrawing substituents gives the molecule distinctive reactivity, making it a valuable building block in organic synthesis and a reference standard in environmental and biochemical assays.

The compound is closely related to guaiacol (2-methoxyphenol), a naturally occurring phenolic found in wood smoke and certain plant tissues. The introduction of a chlorine substituent modifies its electronic properties and lipophilicity relative to the parent compound.

Physicochemical Properties and Specifications

4-Chloro-2-methoxyphenol is typically encountered as a white to off-white crystalline solid at room temperature. Key physicochemical parameters include a molecular weight of 158.58 g/mol and molecular formula C₇H₇ClO₂. The compound exhibits moderate lipophilicity due to the combined influence of the methoxy and chloro substituents on the aromatic ring.

Purity and specification details for Aladdin SKU C476866 should be confirmed against the current Certificate of Analysis (CoA) available on the product page. Researchers requiring a specific purity grade (e.g., ≥98% by GC or HPLC) should consult the CoA or contact Aladdin Scientific technical support before placing an order.

Note: Exact melting point, boiling point, density, and purity values are not reproduced here to avoid transcription errors; always refer to the official CoA and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) supplied with the product lot.

Research Applications

4-Chloro-2-methoxyphenol serves multiple roles in laboratory research:

• Organic synthesis intermediate: The phenolic hydroxyl group and the para-chloro substituent provide handles for further functionalization, including etherification, esterification, nucleophilic aromatic substitution, and cross-coupling reactions.
• Biochemical and environmental reference standard: Chlorinated guaiacols are monitored as environmental contaminants and disinfection by-products in water treatment; the compound can serve as an analytical reference standard in chromatographic methods.
• Enzyme substrate studies: Halogenated phenols are substrates or inhibitors for various oxidoreductases (e.g., peroxidases, laccases), and 4-chloroguaiacol may be used in enzyme kinetics studies.
• Medicinal chemistry: Chloromethoxyphenol scaffolds appear in pharmaceutical intermediate libraries for structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies.

Researchers should validate the suitability of this compound for their specific application, as performance may vary by assay conditions.

Storage, Handling, and Safety

Storage: Store 4-Chloro-2-methoxyphenol in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct light and incompatible materials (strong oxidizers, strong bases). Follow the conditions specified on the product label and SDS.

Handling: Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and a laboratory coat. Work in a fume hood or well-ventilated area to minimize inhalation exposure. Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.

Disposal: Dispose of waste in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations for halogenated organic compounds. Do not pour down the drain without checking applicable environmental regulations.

Always consult the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for lot-specific hazard information, GHS classification, first-aid measures, and regulatory data before use.

Ordering and Quality Assurance

SKU: Order 4-Chloro-2-methoxyphenol from Aladdin Scientific under SKU C476866. Available pack sizes and current stock status can be found on the Aladdin Scientific product page.

Certificate of Analysis (CoA): A lot-specific CoA documenting purity, appearance, and relevant analytical data is available for download on the product page by entering the lot number. Contact customer service if you require a CoA prior to purchase.

Quality and Purity: Aladdin Scientific applies rigorous quality-control testing to ensure reagent specifications are met. For applications requiring the highest purity, confirm the grade listed on the CoA meets your experimental requirements.

Returns and Regulatory Compliance: Please review Aladdin Scientific's return policy before ordering. Products must be handled and stored according to label instructions to maintain eligibility for return or exchange where applicable.