4-tert-Butylcatechol

4-tert-Butylcatechol (CAS 98-29-3), commonly abbreviated as PTBC or 4-TBC, is a synthetic phenolic compound supplied as white to cream flakes. It carries no assigned E-code and is catalogued under EC 202-653-9. It is also referenced in trade and technical documentation as p-tert-Butylcatechol and 4-T-Butylpyrocatechol.

In plastics and polymer processing, PTBC functions as a thermal stabiliser and polymerisation inhibitor, scavenging free radicals that would otherwise initiate premature crosslinking or degradation during high-temperature compounding. In coatings and adhesives, it extends shelf life by interrupting oxidative chain reactions in unsaturated resin systems. It also serves as a UV-stabilising antioxidant in lubricant formulations.

PTBC is available in technical and pharmaceutical intermediate grades, with supply conforming to REACH registration requirements for the European market. Standard packaging includes fibre drums and multi-layer bags; documentation typically covers CoA, SDS, and origin certification. Buyers should confirm grade suitability against applicable pharmacopoeial or industry specifications.