Terramene

Terramene is a synthetic organic compound that gained scientific attention in the early 21st century following its synthesis by researchers at the Institute of Advanced Materials in 2005. The molecule is based on a benzenoid core functionalized with a tert‑butyl carbamate and a mesityl group, giving it the common chemical designation 3‑(tert‑butylamino)-1‑(mesityl)benzyl carbamate. Its physical properties include a melting point of 121 °C, a solubility of 1.8 g L⁻¹ in water, and a redox potential of +0.72 V versus the normal hydrogen electrode.

In research literature, terramene has been investigated primarily as a redox-active material for flow battery systems. Its reversible oxidation to a phenyl radical cation can store and release energy with a theoretical capacity of 150 mAh g⁻¹. Experimental studies using a symmetric flow battery configuration reported round‑trip efficiencies of 78 % over 200 charge–discharge cycles at 20 °C. Additionally, the compound has shown promise as a component in electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reactions, where its ability to mediate electron transfer leads to turnover frequencies of 1.4 × 10⁶ s⁻¹ under alkaline conditions.

Safety assessments indicate that terramene is non‑toxic in acute exposure scenarios but can cause mild irritation to skin and eyes upon direct contact. Inhalation of dust or aerosolized particles is discouraged, as respiratory irritation may occur. No long‑term carcinogenicity studies have been published to date.

The broader scientific community remains interested in terramene’s potential to improve battery performance and catalysis, though large‑scale commercial applications have not yet been realized.