English 
Español 
français 
العربية Search
Search
4-Methoxyphenol MEHQ is used as a pharmaceutical intermediate.
4-Methoxyphenol (MEHQ) is an organic compound used primarily as a polymerization inhibitor. It is added to acrylic and vinyl monomers during storage and transport to prevent them from prematurely solidifying.
Its secondary role is as an antioxidant in cosmetics, skincare, and some industrial products to prevent spoilage. It also serves as a chemical intermediate in synthesizing other compounds.
Important Note: It is toxic and a skin irritant. Its use in consumer products like cosmetics is strictly limited (e.g., to 0.001% in the EU). Proper safety gear is required for industrial handling.
Items | Specifications | Results |
Appearance | White crystals | White crystals |
The content of Hydroquinone % | ≤0.05 | 0.02 |
Residue On Ignition % | ≤0.01 | 0.005 |
Loss On Drying % | ≤0.3 | 0.06 |
Melting Point | 54-56.5 | 56.3 |
Heavy Metals(Pb)% | ≤0.001 | 0.0001 |
Chromaticity(APHA) | ≤10 | <10 |
1.4-Dimethoxybenzene | Not detected | Not detected |
Assay | ≥99.50% | 99.82% |
Conclusion | The product conforms to the above specifications. | |
| Product parameters | |
| Cas number: | 150-76-5 |
| Appearance: | White crystals |
| Purity: | 99.5%min |
| Package details: | 25kg/fiber drum |
| Brand: | Fortunachem |
4-Methoxyphenol (also known as MEHQ, *p*-methoxyphenol, or hydroquinone monomethyl ether) is an organic compound with the formula CH₃OC₆H₄OH. It is a phenol derivative, specifically the methyl ether of hydroquinone.
It appears as white to light-beige crystals or flakes and is primarily known for its role as a polymerization inhibitor and antioxidant.
This is its most significant application. It is added in small quantities (typically 10–1000 ppm) to monomers to prevent their unwanted spontaneous polymerization during storage, transport, and processing.
Vinyl Monomers: Essential for stabilizing acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, styrene, and vinyl acetate.
Acrylate Monomers: Used in paints, adhesives, and coatings.
Polymer Production: Ensures monomers remain stable until intentionally polymerized.
Cosmetics and Skincare: Used at low concentrations as an antioxidant to prevent the oxidation (rancidity) of oils and fats in products like creams and lotions.
Food and Fragrances: Sometimes used as a preservative to extend shelf life (subject to strict regulatory limits).
Pharmaceuticals: Acts as a stabilizer in certain drug formulations to prevent degradation.
Serves as a building block in the synthesis of more complex chemicals, including:
Other antioxidants (e.g., BHA derivatives).
Agrochemicals.
Pharmaceutical compounds.
Historically and in some specialized processes, it has been used as a developing agent in photography.
Toxicity: Can be harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. It is a skin and eye irritant.
Regulation: In cosmetics (e.g., within the EU), its maximum authorized concentration is 0.001% in leave-on skin products. Its use is strictly controlled.
Handling: Requires proper ventilation, protective gloves, and eye/face protection in industrial settings.
In essence, 4-Methoxyphenol (MEHQ) is a vital industrial stabilizer that prevents premature polymerization in monomer production. Its secondary roles are as an antioxidant in cosmetics and a chemical intermediate. Due to its toxicity, its use in consumer products is highly regulated and minimized.
It is an important intermediate for fine chemical wholesale products such as medicines, spices, and pesticides. It can also be used as a polymer inhibitor, antioxidant, plasticizer, etc., with a wide range of uses.
Fortunachem Provides Not Only Professional Chemical Products But Also Professional Help
Keeping you up-to-date with all the latest information, news, and events about Fortunachem!
Quick Links
Add:
E-mail:
