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3-Methylbenzofuran-2-carboxylic acid

Updated: 2026-07-15

Overview

3-Methylbenzofuran-2-carboxylic acid is an organic compound belonging to the benzofuran class of heterocycles. It features a carboxylic acid functional group at the 2-position and a methyl group at the 3-position of the benzofuran ring system. This compound serves as a versatile building block in organic synthesis, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry where it may be used to develop active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) or other specialized chemicals. Its molecular structure allows for various chemical modifications, making it valuable for medicinal chemistry research.

Physical and Chemical Properties

The compound typically appears as an off-white to light yellow crystalline powder with moderate solubility in common organic solvents. Its melting point ranges between 180-185°C, indicating reasonable thermal stability for most synthetic applications. As a carboxylic acid derivative, it exhibits typical acid-base properties and can form salts with bases. The benzofuran core contributes aromatic character, while the methyl group influences the compound's reactivity at adjacent positions. The carboxyl group enables esterification, amidation, and other common transformations important in synthetic chemistry.

Main Applications

The primary use of 3-methylbenzofuran-2-carboxylic acid is as a pharmaceutical intermediate in the synthesis of more complex molecules. It may serve as a precursor for drug candidates targeting various therapeutic areas. In research settings, this compound finds application in medicinal chemistry for structure-activity relationship studies. Some specialty chemical manufacturers may also use it as a starting material for synthesizing dyes, fragrances, or other fine chemicals where the benzofuran scaffold is desired.

Safety and Storage

As with many organic acids, proper handling precautions are necessary. The compound may cause irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, goggles, and lab coats should be used. For storage, maintain the material in tightly sealed containers under cool, dry conditions away from strong oxidizing agents. Shelf life is typically several years when stored properly, though quality should be verified before use in critical applications.

B2B Procurement Guide

When sourcing 3-methylbenzofuran-2-carboxylic acid commercially, buyers should specify required purity levels (typically 95-99% by HPLC) and request certificates of analysis. Pharmaceutical-grade material may command premium pricing. Consider ordering smaller test quantities before large purchases to verify quality. Reliable suppliers should provide proper safety documentation (SDS) and be able to demonstrate consistent batch-to-batch quality. Lead times may vary depending on production schedules and inventory availability.

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