4-methoxyphenol

4-Methoxyphenol (CAS 150-76-5), also known commercially as mequinol and 4-hydroxyanisole, functions as a polymerization inhibitor and antioxidant in industrial chemical processing. It prevents premature crosslinking and radical chain reactions in reactive monomer systems, protecting product integrity during storage and transport across various supply chains.

In plastics and polymer manufacturing, it stabilizes vinyl and acrylic monomers against unwanted polymerization during bulk storage. Coatings and adhesive formulators use it to extend shelf life. It is particularly effective in UV-curable and reactive resin systems where premature gelation is a critical quality risk. As a pharmaceutical intermediate, mequinol is a direct active ingredient.

It is used in topical depigmentation formulations and as a building block for synthesizing complex API structures. In personal care, it is incorporated into skin-lightening products. Regulatory-grade purity is a procurement requirement for these applications. 4-Methoxyphenol is supplied as a white to off-white crystalline solid or flake for industrial use.

Technical grade is standard for industrial inhibitor applications, while pharmaceutical and cosmetic buyers typically source material meeting BP or USP specifications. Packaging ranges from kilogram-scale bags to bulk drum quantities depending on application volume. This ensures flexibility for both small-scale labs and large manufacturing plants.