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Oct 10, 2025
10:14 PM
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Introduction
Organosulfur compounds represent a broad class of chemicals that play an important role in both industrial chemistry and academic research. Among them, thiophenols are of particular interest due to their reactive thiol (–SH) group directly bonded to an aromatic ring. A key derivative of this group is 4-tert-Butylthiophenol, also known as p-tert-butylthiophenol. This compound is a useful building block in polymer chemistry, fine chemical production, and research applications.
The presence of the tert-butyl substituent at the para position of the benzene ring strongly influences the reactivity and physical properties of the compound. The bulky tert-butyl group increases steric hindrance, alters electron distribution, and stabilizes the aromatic system. These features make 4-tert-Butylthiophenol an interesting material for study and application.
Chemical Identity and Structure
IUPAC Name: 4-tert-Butylbenzenethiol
Common Name: p-tert-Butylthiophenol
Molecular Formula: C10H14S
Molecular Weight: 166.28 g/mol
CAS Number: 3446-89-7
Structurally, the compound consists of a benzene ring with two substituents:
A thiol group (–SH) directly attached to the ring.
A bulky tert-butyl group (–C(CH?)?) at the para (4) position.
This arrangement reduces some of the volatility seen in unsubstituted thiophenol and improves its stability.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Physical Characteristics
Appearance: Clear to pale yellow liquid with a strong, unpleasant odor (typical of thiols).
Boiling Point: ~ 259–261 °C
Melting Point: Around –8 °C
Density: ~1.0 g/cm³
Solubility: Poorly soluble in water but readily soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, benzene, and chloroform.
Chemical Characteristics
The thiol group makes the compound nucleophilic, allowing it to participate in substitution and addition reactions.
Thiols are prone to oxidation, and 4-tert-Butylthiophenol can readily form disulfides under oxidative conditions.
The bulky tert-butyl group provides steric protection, which can slow down certain reactions compared to unsubstituted thiophenol.
It is stable under normal laboratory conditions but should be protected from prolonged exposure to air and light.
Methods of Synthesis
4-tert-Butylthiophenol can be synthesized using several strategies:
Direct Thiolation:
Substituted chlorobenzenes (such as 4-tert-butylchlorobenzene) can undergo nucleophilic substitution with thiolating agents.
Reduction Pathways:
Disulfide or sulfonyl precursors may be reduced using agents like lithium aluminum hydride (LiAlH?) to yield the thiol.
Catalytic Approaches:
Recent research has explored catalytic thiolation reactions to improve yields and minimize byproducts.
The chosen method depends on whether the goal is laboratory-scale synthesis for research or industrial-scale production.
Applications
1. Polymer Stabilization
One of the major uses of 4-tert-Butylthiophenol is in polymer chemistry.
It acts as an antioxidant that protects polymers from degradation caused by oxygen, heat, or UV light.
As a chain transfer agent, it helps control molecular weight in radical polymerization processes.
Used in rubbers, plastics, and coatings, it enhances durability and extends product lifespan.
2. Chemical Intermediate
4-tert-Butylthiophenol is a valuable building block for various fine chemicals.
Precursor to specialty ligands in coordination chemistry.
Starting material for agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals that require sulfur-containing groups.
Used in the synthesis of disulfides, sulfonates, and thiol-based functionalized materials.
3. Catalysis and Research
Serves as a model compound in studies on thiol reactivity and steric effects.
Used to create functionalized surfaces in nanotechnology and materials science.
Helps in the design of new catalysts where sulfur-based ligands are required.
Safety and Handling
Like many organosulfur compounds, 4-tert-Butylthiophenol requires careful handling:
Health Hazards
Inhalation: Vapors can irritate the respiratory system.
Skin/Eye Contact: May cause irritation and redness.
Ingestion: Harmful if swallowed.
Odor: Strong thiol odor makes accidental exposure easy to detect.
Safety Measures
Work in a fume hood to avoid inhalation of vapors.
Use personal protective equipment (PPE): gloves, goggles, and lab coat.
Store in a tightly sealed container, away from oxidizing agents and sources of ignition.
Environmental Concerns
Organosulfur compounds may have toxic effects on aquatic life.
Waste should be disposed of following local regulations and not poured into drains.
Importance in Industry and Research
The significance of 4-tert-Butylthiophenol lies in its dual role as both a practical industrial chemical and a useful research material. In industry, it helps improve the stability and durability of polymer-based products, which has implications in packaging, automotive, and construction materials. In the laboratory, its sterically hindered thiol group allows chemists to study reactivity trends, develop new synthetic methods, and create innovative functional materials.
With the growing interest in advanced polymers, nanotechnology, and sulfur-based catalysis, demand for such thiol derivatives is expected to remain steady.
Conclusion
4-tert-Butylthiophenol is a versatile organosulfur compound with unique structural and chemical characteristics. Its combination of a reactive thiol group and a bulky tert-butyl substituent makes it an important intermediate in polymer science, fine chemical synthesis, and catalytic research. While it offers numerous industrial and research benefits, safe handling practices are essential due to its odor, potential toxicity, and reactivity.
In summary, this compound illustrates the balance between functionality and safety that defines much of modern chemistry: valuable in the right context, but demanding careful control. As research advances, new applications may emerge, further expanding the role of 4-tert-Butylthiophenol in science and industry.
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