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
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
This structure makes 4-tert-butylthiophenol an excellent nucleophile, especially in reactions where selective functionalization of surfaces or molecules is desired.
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
2. Surface Functionalization and Nanotechnology
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
The tert-butyl group provides hydrophobicity and steric control, making it suitable for engineering surface wettability and reactivity.
3. Organic Synthesis Intermediate
It serves as a valuable intermediate in the synthesis of:
Pharmaceutical compounds
Polymers
Agrochemicals
Functional aromatic sulfides and sulfoxides
Its reactivity enables formation of C–S bonds via substitution and oxidation reactions, useful for tailoring molecular frameworks.
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
Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for detailed handling instructions.
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
Supplied with COA, MSDS, and TDS. Custom packaging for moisture-sensitive or air-sensitive use available.
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.
✅ Summary:
Strong metal-binding thiol group
Excellent for gold surface modification
Precursor to disulfides, thioethers, and sulfonic acids
Widely used in materials science and organic synthesis
Available in both research and industrial grades
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