Tert-Butylhydroquinone
TBHQ
- CAS
- 1948-33-0
- EC
- 217-752-2
- Food Code
- E319
- Sectors
- Food & Nutrition, Plastics & Polymers, Rubber & Elastomers
Tert-Butylhydroquinone (CAS 1948-33-0) is a phenolic antioxidant that appears as a white to light tan crystalline powder, may contain black specs, carries the food code E319, and is used to prevent rancidity in oils and fats and to stabilize plastics and rubber. It has density 1.05 g/cm³, melting point 126-129°C, slightly soluble in water, soluble in ethanol; acts as a phenolic antioxidant.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C10H14O2 |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 166.22 g/mol |
| Appearance | tan powder |
| Form | Crystalline Powder |
| Color | White to light tan, may contain black specs |
| Melting point | 126.5-128.5 °C |
| Boiling point | 295 °C |
| Density | 295 |
| Water solubility | Slightly soluble in water(10g/L). |
| Flash point | 171 °C |
| GHS signal word | Warning · Irritant / harmful, Environmental hazard |
| HS code | 29072900 |
| Grades available | Food Grade, Technical Grade |
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.
Tert-Butylhydroquinone
Applications
Used as antioxidant in foods (oils, fats) to prevent rancidity; in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals for stabilization; in pesticides as inert ingredient; in plastics and rubber as stabilizer.
Safety & Risks
Irritates eyes/skin; may cause respiratory issues. Low toxicity but Prop 65 cancer warning; avoid strong oxidizers. Hazard Class 9 (environmentally hazardous); use PPE, ventilate.
Packaging
In 25kg drums; store in cool, dry places; transport as environmentally hazardous solid.