Veratrole

Phenols & Ethers Flavors & Fragrances Pharma

Veratrole (1,2-dimethoxybenzene, o-dimethoxybenzene, catechol dimethyl ether) is the dimethyl ether of catechol, a colorless to pale yellow oily liquid at room temperature that solidifies into white crystals at low temperature, with a sweet aromatic scent. It is a widely used phenol-ether fine chemical combining the dual properties of pharmaceutical intermediate and fragrance raw material. The product is slightly soluble in water, readily soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, acetone, and methanol, with a solidification point of 21-23℃, a boiling point of 206-207℃, and stable chemical properties.

Veratrole is prepared by bis-methylation of catechol (pyrocatechol) with a methylating agent such as dimethyl sulfate under alkaline conditions, a mature process with high yield. Both methoxy groups are ortho/para directors, jointly activating the ring for electrophilic substitution, enabling construction of polysubstituted benzene-ring derivatives; the ether linkages are stable under highly reaction conditions. The product should be stored sealed and protected from light.

Applications: Intermediate for pharmaceuticals and flavoring compounds.