TCI D3414 3,5-Di-tert-butyltoluene is an aromatic hydrocarbon carrying two bulky tert-butyl groups at the 3 and 5 positions and one methyl group on the benzene ring. As a non-heterocyclic building block, this compound provides an aromatic framework that is sterically protected while still offering clear points of functionalisation, namely the benzylic methyl group and the remaining unsubstituted ring positions. Frameworks of this kind are widely used to construct ligands, antioxidants, and functional molecules that demand a bulky surrounding environment in the laboratory.
The property that makes this material a preferred choice is the controlled steric hindrance supplied by its two tert-butyl groups. Together these groups shield the space around specific ring positions, so substitution reactions are directed toward the positions that remain available, while at the same time improving solubility in non-polar organic solvents and preventing unwanted intermolecular stacking in solid materials. The tert-butyl groups are also mildly electron-donating and highly stable toward oxidation, whereas the benzylic methyl group can be converted into bromomethyl, aldehyde, or carboxylic acid functionality as a bridge toward more elaborate structures. The molecular symmetry keeps the substitution pattern predictable.
In Indonesian laboratories this building block is typically used in synthetic and materials chemistry research groups at universities, government research institutes, and industrial R&D units. It serves as a starting framework in multi-step synthesis programmes, in ligand and antioxidant preparation work, and in method development where a sterically shielded aromatic core is required. It is normally purchased in research-scale quantities, handled at the bench in a fume hood, and stored alongside other organic building blocks in the reagent inventory.
- Ligand synthesis: the two tert-butyl groups create the bulky steric environment often required around a coordination site, while the methyl group provides a handle for attaching donor functionality.
- Antioxidant development: the oxidation-stable, mildly electron-donating tert-butyl substituents give the aromatic core the sterically hindered character associated with hindered-phenol type antioxidant frameworks.
- Multi-step organic synthesis: the benzylic methyl group can be converted into bromomethyl, aldehyde, or carboxylic acid intermediates, making the compound a convenient entry point toward more complex target molecules.
- Functional materials research: improved solubility in non-polar organic solvents and suppressed intermolecular stacking make this framework useful when designing solid-state materials that must avoid unwanted aggregation.
- Regioselective aromatic substitution studies: because the tert-butyl groups shield specific ring positions, reactions are directed to the remaining free positions, giving a predictable substrate for selectivity investigations.
| Brand | TCI |
|---|---|
| CAS number | 15181-11-0 |
| Molecular formula | — |
| Purity | — |
| Category | Chemistry > Building Blocks > Non-Heterocyclic Building Blocks |
| Pack sizes | available in standard TCI research-scale packaging; please confirm the pack size when ordering |
| Physical form | — |
| Storage | keep in the tightly closed original container, in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place away from ignition sources |
- Catalogue number: D3414
- Chemical class: aromatic hydrocarbon (non-heterocyclic building block)
Store TCI D3414 3,5-Di-tert-butyltoluene in its tightly closed original container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, away from heat, direct sunlight, open flames, and strong oxidising agents. Chemically resistant glass containers with well-sealing closures are suitable, and containers should be clearly labelled and kept upright in a designated organic reagent cabinet. Handle the compound in a fume hood, wearing safety glasses, chemically resistant gloves, and a laboratory coat, and avoid inhalation of vapours and contact with skin or eyes. Keep the container closed when not in use, minimise spill potential during transfer, and always consult the manufacturer's safety data sheet before use and disposal.
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