Overview
Orcinol, systematically named 5-methylresorcinol, is a natural phenolic compound historically extracted from lichens (e.g., Roccella tinctoria). It is chemically classified as a dihydroxy toluene derivative. Industrially, it is synthesized from toluene derivatives via sulfonation and alkali fusion processes. Primarily used as a chemical intermediate, orcinol's reactive hydroxyl groups make it valuable for synthesizing pharmaceuticals (e.g., orsellinic acid derivatives) and azo dyes. Its ability to form colored complexes with ferric ions also lends utility in analytical chemistry for carbohydrate detection.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Orcinol crystallizes as colorless to faintly yellow needles with a characteristic phenolic odor. It exhibits typical aromatic phenol reactivity, including electrophilic substitution at the 2- and 4-positions. The compound is moderately soluble in polar solvents due to hydrogen bonding from its hydroxyl groups. Notably, orcinol acts as a reducing agent and forms stable chelate complexes with divalent metal ions like iron and copper. This property underpins its use in colorimetric tests (e.g., Bial's test for pentoses). Its pKa values (9.4 and 11.5) reflect the stepwise deprotonation of its hydroxyl groups.
Main Applications
In pharmaceuticals, orcinol serves as a precursor for antiseptics and antifungal agents. It is a key intermediate in synthesizing orsellinic acid, which forms the core structure of many lichen-derived bioactive compounds. The dye industry utilizes orcinol to produce mauveine-type pigments and pH indicators. Its complexation with iron(III) creates a distinctive red color, employed in histological staining and analytical chemistry for detecting polysaccharides and lignin. Emerging applications include organic electronics due to its electron-donating properties.
Safety and Storage
Orcinol requires careful handling as it may cause skin irritation (H315) and serious eye damage (H318). Appropriate PPE—gloves, goggles, and lab coats—must be worn. Avoid dust formation and ensure local exhaust ventilation in processing areas. Storage should be in tightly sealed containers under inert gas if prolonged preservation is needed. Incompatible with strong oxidizers, acid chlorides, and anhydrides. Shelf life typically exceeds two years when stored below 30°C in original packaging.
B2B Procurement Guide
Industrial buyers should specify purity requirements (technical grade ≥95%, reagent grade ≥98%) and packaging preferences (drums vs. bags). Bulk purchases (100kg+) often attract 10-15% discounts. Chinese and Indian manufacturers dominate supply, with Europe offering higher-purity specialty grades. Quality verification via HPLC analysis is recommended. Certificates of Analysis (CoA) should confirm absence of heavy metals (<10ppm) and residual solvents. Consider suppliers with ISO 9001 certification and REACH compliance for EU markets. Lead times vary from 2-6 weeks depending on order volume and customization.
Related Manufacturers
- 主营：桉油精、标准品、薄荷脑、白花前胡丙素、中药对照品、白藜芦醇三甲醚
- 主营：细辛脂素、百两金素、延胡索乙素、标准品、桃叶珊瑚苷、脱氢紫堇碱