catecol

Catecol, more commonly known in English as catechol, is an organic compound with the formula C6H4(OH)2. It is an ortho-dihydroxybenzene, meaning two hydroxyl groups are attached to adjacent carbon atoms on a benzene ring. Its synonyms include pyrocatechol and 1,2-dihydroxybenzene.

Chemically, catechol is a pale, colorless solid that is soluble in water to a limited extent and miscible with many organic solvents. It is readily oxidized in air to form o-quinone derivatives and can polymerize to dark pigments, including melanin-like materials, upon aging or autoxidation. The compound is sensitive to light and heat and should be stored in appropriate conditions to minimize degradation.

Catechol occurs in nature in trace amounts in some plants as a metabolic intermediate and is also produced industrially as a chemical building block. It can be obtained by oxidation of phenol precursors or by hydrolysis of chlorocatechols in various routes, depending on the desired derivative. Multiple production pathways exist in industry for different applications.

Uses of catechol include serving as a versatile building block for the synthesis of dyes, flavors and fragrances, pharmaceuticals, and polymer materials. It is used in the preparation of certain catecholic ligands and as a starting material for other dihydroxybenzene derivatives, making it a common intermediate in organic synthesis.

Safety: catechol is toxic by ingestion and inhalation and can cause skin and eye irritation. It is a reducing agent and can react with oxidizers; exposure should be minimized, and appropriate protective equipment used when handling. It can form vapors or dust that pose inhalation hazards and should be stored away from oxidizing substances.