2-[4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)phenyl]-2-methylpropanoic acid(CAS: 552301-45-8)

2-[4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)phenyl]-2-methylpropanoic acid is a white crystalline solid with a molecular weight of approximately 288.35 g/mol. It has a pKa of around 7.2 and is slightly soluble in water. The compound is reactive towards nucleophiles and can undergo esterification and condensation reactions.

2-[4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)phenyl]-2-methylpropanoic acid is commonly synthesized through the reaction of 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)benzaldehyde with methyl acetoacetate in the presence of a base like sodium hydroxide. The process yields a mixture which can be purified by recrystallization or column chromatography.

2-[4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)phenyl]-2-methylpropanoic acid is used in the pharmaceutical industry as a precursor for drug synthesis and in the polymer industry for the development of new materials with improved mechanical and thermal properties.

When handling 2-[4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)phenyl]-2-methylpropanoic acid, it is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and safety goggles. It should be handled in a well-ventilated area or a fume hood to avoid inhalation. In case of a spill, immediately clean up using appropriate absorbents and consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for disposal instructions.