2secButylphenol

2-sec-Butylphenol, also known as 2-(butan-2-yl)phenol, is an organic compound in the class of phenols. It consists of a benzene ring bearing a hydroxyl group and a sec-butyl substituent at the 2-position, giving the formula C10H14O. It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a characteristic phenolic odor and is soluble in many organic solvents but has limited water solubility.

Chemically, the compound is defined by an ortho relationship between the hydroxyl group and the sec-butyl substituent. Like other alkylphenols, it combines a polar phenolic moiety with a hydrophobic alkyl chain, affecting its solubility and volatility. It is typically handled as an organic chemical, with standard precautions for phenolic compounds.

Production and occurrence: 2-sec-butylphenol can be produced by Friedel-Crafts type alkylation of phenol with sec-butylating reagents under acidic conditions. In practice, syntheses may yield mixtures of ortho, meta, and para isomers, with the ortho isomer corresponding to the 2-position being sought in some processes. The compound is mainly manufactured for use as an intermediate in organic synthesis rather than as a bulk chemical.

Applications: It serves as an intermediate in the preparation of specialty chemicals, including fragrance ingredients, plasticizers, and agrochemical intermediates. Its combination of a reactive phenolic site and an alkyl substituent makes it suitable for further chemical transformations.

Safety: As with many phenols, 2-sec-butylphenol can be irritating to skin and eyes and can be harmful if ingested or inhaled. It should be handled with appropriate protective equipment and in a well-ventilated area, with standard storage and handling procedures for hazardous organic liquids.

See also: other alkylphenols such as 2-tert-butylphenol and 2-isopropylphenol.