Sigma-Aldrich™ 2,6-Di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol (BHT), ≥99.0%, for Synthesis

2,6-Di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol, commonly known as BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene), is a high-purity phenolic antioxidant supplied by Sigma-Aldrich™ for chemical synthesis, materials science, and industrial research applications. Its sterically hindered phenolic structure provides excellent radical-scavenging and oxidative stabilization properties, making it a key building block in antioxidant chemistry.

This ≥99.0% GC-assayed synthesis-grade material is widely used as:

• A synthetic intermediate
• A reference compound in antioxidant research
• A stabilizer precursor in polymers, fuels, lubricants, and specialty chemicals

Intended Use

• For research and industrial synthesis use only
• Not intended for food, pharmaceutical, or direct human use
• Suitable for:
  • Organic and industrial synthesis
  • Antioxidant research
  • Polymer and materials modification
  • Analytical method development
  • Process chemistry and QC reference use

Chemical & Physical Properties

Structure & Identification

• SMILES:
  Oc1c(cc(cc1C(C)(C)C)C)C(C)(C)C
• InChI Key: NLZUEZXRPGMBCV-UHFFFAOYSA-N

The bulky tert-butyl substituents around the phenolic OH group provide steric hindrance, which slows oxidation and enhances antioxidant performance.

Scientific & Industrial Relevance

2,6-Di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol is widely studied and utilized for its:

• Free-radical scavenging activity
• Oxidative stability enhancement
• Thermal resistance in polymer systems

Published research highlights its relevance in:

• Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory studies
• Polymer stabilization and modification
• Analytical detection of antioxidant degradation products
• Theoretical and applied studies of BHT by-products

Applications

• Organic synthesis and reaction chemistry
• Antioxidant research and screening
• Polymer, plastic, and rubber stabilization studies
• Fuel, lubricant, and oil additive research
• Materials science and surface modification
• Analytical reference compound for QC

Analytical & Quality Assurance

Each batch is tested to ensure:

• Assay (GC, area %): ≥99.0%
• Melting range: 69–72 °C
• Identity: Confirmed by IR spectroscopy

Packaging Options

Storage & Handling

• Storage Temperature: 2–30 °C
• Store tightly closed in a dry, well-ventilated area
• Protect from excessive heat and ignition sources

Safety Information

• Oral LD₅₀ (Rat): >2000 mg/kg
• Handle using appropriate laboratory PPE
• Consult Safety Data Sheet (SDS) before use

Sigma-Aldrich™ 2,6-Di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol (BHT) is a high-purity, synthesis-grade antioxidant compound essential for chemical synthesis, materials research, and industrial process development. Its proven stability, consistent quality, and broad applicability make it a trusted standard and intermediate for laboratories and manufacturers worldwide.