Catechol
1,2-Benzenediol, Pyrocatechol, Ortho-dihydroxybenzene.
- CAS
- 120-80-9
- EC
- 204-427-6
- Sectors
- Agriculture, Pharma & Healthcare, Plastics & Polymers
Catechol (CAS 120-80-9), also known as 1,2-dihydroxybenzene, is an organic building block supplied as white crystalline flakes that turn brown on contact with light and air, and it is used in agrochemical, pharmaceutical and polymer applications. Its strong reducing properties make it a vital reagent in specialized industrial chemical processes.
It is a fundamental intermediate in the production of pesticides, specifically for carbamate insecticides. Its high purity is essential for achieving optimal yields during complex organic synthesis and fine chemical manufacturing.
The compound also acts as a powerful antioxidant and polymerization inhibitor in the polymer industry. Its ability to act as a chelating agent is exploited in high-performance water treatment and metal processing applications.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C6H6O2 |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 110.11 g/mol |
| Appearance | Catechol is a white crystalline solid. Turns brown on contact with light and air. |
| Form | Crystalline Flakes |
| Color | white to faintly beige |
| Melting point | 105 °C |
| Boiling point | 245.5 °C @ Press: 760 Torr |
| Density | 1.344 g/cm³ |
| Water solubility | 430 g/L (20 °C) |
| Flash point | 279 °F |
| pH | 6 (100g/l, H2O, 20°C) |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Corrosive, Acute toxicity, Irritant / harmful, Health hazard |
| HS code | 29072900 |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Catechol
Applications
- Agrochemical Production: Vital precursor for the synthesis of herbicides, fungicides, and various carbamate insecticides.
- Pharma Intermediates: Used in the manufacture of L-DOPA and other catecholamine-based medicinal compounds.
- Polymer Stabilization: Acts as an inhibitor to prevent premature polymerization in monomers and synthetic resins.
Safety & Risks
Classified as toxic if swallowed and a severe skin/eye irritant. Handling must involve chemical goggles, aprons, and respiratory protection to avoid dust and vapor exposure.
Packaging
25 kg bags; 50 kg or 200 kg steel drums with moisture-proof internal coatings.