8 September 2025, 11:48 AM
Introduction
4-tert-Butylthiophenol is a specialized aromatic thiol widely used in organic synthesis, materials science, and surface modification. This compound is known for its unique sulfur functionality combined with a sterically hindered tert-butyl group, making it a versatile reagent and intermediate in chemical industries.
Chemical Identity
Structure and Reactivity
The compound contains:
Applications of 4-tert-Butylthiophenol
1. Ligand in Metal Coordination Chemistry
The thiol group readily binds to transition metals such as gold, silver, and copper, making it a key component in:
4-tert-Butylthiophenol is commonly used to modify the surface properties of metals, especially:
3. Organic Synthesis Intermediate
It serves as a valuable intermediate in the synthesis of:
4. Precursor for Disulfide and Thioether Synthesis
Through controlled oxidation or alkylation, 4-tert-butylthiophenol can be converted into:
Handling and Safety
Packaging and Availability
4-tert-Butylthiophenol is available in:
Conclusion
4-tert-Butylthiophenol is a high-value aromatic thiol with applications ranging from nanotechnology and catalysis to drug synthesis and surface chemistry. Its reactivity, stability, and tunable properties make it a preferred choice for chemists and material scientists.
4-tert-Butylthiophenol is a specialized aromatic thiol widely used in organic synthesis, materials science, and surface modification. This compound is known for its unique sulfur functionality combined with a sterically hindered tert-butyl group, making it a versatile reagent and intermediate in chemical industries.
Chemical Identity
- Chemical Name: 4-tert-Butylbenzenethiol
- Synonyms: p-tert-Butylthiophenol, 4-(tert-Butyl)thiophenol
- Molecular Formula: C10H14S
- Molecular Weight: 166.28 g/mol
- CAS Number: 98-29-3
- Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid with a distinct thiol odor
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents like ethanol, diethyl ether, and benzene
Structure and Reactivity
The compound contains:
- A thiol (-SH) group at the para-position of a benzene ring
- A tert-butyl group (-C(CH₃)₃) that provides steric bulk and hydrophobicity
Applications of 4-tert-Butylthiophenol
1. Ligand in Metal Coordination Chemistry
The thiol group readily binds to transition metals such as gold, silver, and copper, making it a key component in:
- Self-Assembled Monolayers (SAMs) on gold surfaces
- Design of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs)
- Catalytic systems where sulfur-metal interactions are crucial
4-tert-Butylthiophenol is commonly used to modify the surface properties of metals, especially:
- Gold nanoparticles and electrodes for sensor applications
- Corrosion-resistant coatings
- Functional thin films for electronic and biomedical devices
3. Organic Synthesis Intermediate
It serves as a valuable intermediate in the synthesis of:
- Pharmaceutical compounds
- Polymers
- Agrochemicals
- Functional aromatic sulfides and sulfoxides
4. Precursor for Disulfide and Thioether Synthesis
Through controlled oxidation or alkylation, 4-tert-butylthiophenol can be converted into:
- Disulfides (R–S–S–R)
- Thioethers (R–S–R’)
- Sulfonic acids or sulfoxides for medicinal and polymer chemistry
Handling and Safety
- Toxicity: Harmful if inhaled or ingested; can cause irritation to skin and eyes
- Odor: Strong thiol odor; use in well-ventilated area or fume hood
- Storage: Keep in a cool, dry, and tightly closed container away from oxidizers
- Protective Equipment: Gloves, lab coat, safety goggles, and appropriate respiratory protection
Packaging and Availability
4-tert-Butylthiophenol is available in:
- Analytical & research grades (1g, 5g, 25g)
- Industrial-scale quantities (100g, 1kg, 5kg)
- Custom purity specifications upon request
Conclusion
4-tert-Butylthiophenol is a high-value aromatic thiol with applications ranging from nanotechnology and catalysis to drug synthesis and surface chemistry. Its reactivity, stability, and tunable properties make it a preferred choice for chemists and material scientists.