mixture of 4-fluoro-2-methylbenzonitrile (19.8 g, 150 mmol), KOH (24.3 g, 380 mmol), and water (300 mL) was heated under reflux for two days. The mixture was then acidified with concentrated HCl while cooling. The product was collected by filtration, and the filter cake was washed with water. The solid material was dried after being placed in a hood for several days. 20.8 g (92%) of 4-fluoro-2-methylbenzoic acid was given. 4-fluoro-2-methylbenzoic acid, yield 20.8 g (92%), 1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO-d6): 2.5 (s, 3H), 7.0–7.2 (m, 2H), 7.9 (t, 1H), 12.8 (b, 1H).
4-Fluoro-2-methylbenzoic acid can be used in the production of medicines, dye carriers, plasticizers, fragrances and food preservatives.
