What Is Mequinol?
Mequinol is an organic compound formed when one hydrogen atom of phenol is replaced by a methoxy group. It is a type of phenol, also known as hydroxyanisole. There are three isomers: p-mequinol, o-mequinol, and m-mequinol, corresponding to the para-, ortho-, and meta-positions of the methoxy group on the phenol ring. Each isomer has a molecular formula of C7H8O2 and a molecular weight of 124.14.
Uses of Mequinol
1. P-Mequinol
P-Mequinol is used in organic synthesis, as an inhibitor of radical polymerization for monomers like acrylic acid esters and acrylonitrile, and as an antioxidant for fats, oils, fatty acids, and soaps. It is also utilized in fragrances and cosmetics for its antioxidative properties and pigmentation benefits.
2. O-Mequinol
O-Mequinol is used in the synthesis of organic compounds, as an antiseptic and disinfectant, and in the production of vanillin. It has applications as an antiseptic germicide, dental disinfectant, pain reliever, and intestinal fermentation inhibitor.
3. M-Mequinol
M-Mequinol is used as a catalyst and building block in organic compound synthesis, particularly as an antioxidant. It is also employed as a standard in gas chromatography analysis.
Properties of Mequinol
1. P-Mequinol
P-Mequinol is a white or light-yellow crystal, slightly soluble in water but soluble in ethanol and ether. It has a density of 1.55 g/cm3, a melting point of 126.5°F (52.5°C), and a boiling point of 469.4°F (243°C). P-Mequinol can be synthesized through the free radical reaction of methanol and 1,4-benzoquinone.
2. O-Mequinol
O-Mequinol is a slightly yellowish-white crystal with a characteristic odor. It is slightly soluble in water, but soluble in ethanol and acetone. O-Mequinol has a density of 1.112 g/cm3, a melting point of 82.4°F (28°C), and a boiling point of 399-403°F (204-206°C). It is produced through the thermal decomposition of lignin.
3. M-Mequinol
M-Mequinol is a clear, colorless to reddish-brown liquid, extremely soluble in ethanol and acetone but virtually insoluble in water. Its density is 1.143-1.148 g/cm3, with a melting point of 1.4°F (-17°C), and a boiling point of 471°F (244°C).
Structure of Mequinol
1. P-Mequinol
P-Mequinol, also known as 4-mequinol or 4-hydroxyanisole, contains a methoxy group at the 4-position of phenol.
2. O-Mequinol
O-Mequinol, also known as 2-mequinol or guaiacol, has a methoxy group at the 2-position of phenol.
3. M-Mequinol
M-Mequinol, also referred to as 3-mequinol or resorcinol monomethyl ether features a methoxy group in the 3-position of phenol.