Chemical Properties
clear colourless to pale yellow liquid
Synthesis Reference(s)
Journal of the American Chemical Society, 79, p. 6277, 1957
DOI: 10.1021/ja01580a044Organic Syntheses, Coll. Vol. 2, p. 360, 1943
General Description
A pale yellow to white liquid with a camphor-like odor. Flash point 165°F. Less dense than water and only negligibly soluble in water. Slightly irritates the skin and eyes. Slightly toxic by ingestion but may irritate the mouth, throat and gastrointestinal tract.
Air & Water Reactions
Insoluble in water.
Reactivity Profile
Vigorous reactions, sometimes amounting to explosions, can result from the contact between aromatic hydrocarbons, such as 1,2,3,5-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.
Hazard
Liquid.
Soluble in alcohol and ether; insoluble in water.
Combustible.
Health Hazard
CALL FOR MEDICAL AID. LIQUID: Irritating to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Remove contaminated clothing and shoes. Flush affected areas with plenty of water. IF IN EYES, hold eyelids open and flush with plenty of water. VAPORS: Irritating to skin, eyes and respiratory tract. Move to fresh air. If breathing has stopped, give artificial respiration. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen. IF IN EYES, hold eyelids open and flush with plenty of water. Harmful if inhaled or swallowed. Vapor or mist is irritating to the eyes, mucous membranes, and upper respiratory tract. Prolonged contact can cause dermititis, and prolonged exposure can cause nausea, dizziness and headache.
Purification Methods
Reflux isodurene over sodium and distil it under reduced pressure. [Smith Org Synth Coll Vol II 248 1943, Beilstein 5 H 430, 5 II 329, 5 III 976, 5 IV 1073.]
