1,2,4,5-Tetramethylbenzene

Chemical properties

white to brown semi-transparent crystals

Physical properties

Colorless crystals or scales with a camphor-like odor

The Uses of 1,2,4,5-Tetramethylbenzene

1,2,4,5-Tetramethylbenzene is used in method for reducing odor in room in remodeling work by removing causative substances.

The Uses of 1,2,4,5-Tetramethylbenzene

Plasticizers; polymers; fibers; organic synthesis.

Definition

ChEBI: Durene is a tetramethylbenzene carrying methyl groups at positions 1, 2, 4 and 5.

General Description

Colorless crystals with a camphor-like odor.

Air & Water Reactions

Insoluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

Vigorous reactions, sometimes amounting to explosions, can result from the contact between aromatic hydrocarbons, such as 1,2,4,5-Tetramethylbenzene, and strong oxidizing agents. They can react exothermically with bases and with diazo compounds. Substitution at the benzene nucleus occurs by halogenation (acid catalyst), nitration, sulfonation, and the Friedel-Crafts reaction.

Purification Methods

Chromatograph durene on alumina, and recrystallise it from aqueous EtOH or *benzene. Zone-refining removes duroaldehydes. Dry it under vacuum. [Yamauchi et al. J Phys Chem 89 4804 1985.] It has also been sublimed in vacuo [Johnston et al. J Am Chem Soc 109 1291 1987]. [Beilstein 5 H 431, 5 I 207, 5 II 329, 5 III 979, 5 IV 1076.]