tert-Butyl phenyl carbonate is used in determination of octanol-water partition coefficients by microemulsion electrokinetic chromatography. It is also used in the synthesis of 2-nitroindoles and as a reagent for mono-Boc protection of α,ω-diamines.
If IR is free from OH, then purify it by redistillation; otherwise dissolve it in Et2O, wash it with 5% HCl, then H2O, dry it (MgSO4), evaporate and distil it through a Claisen head under vacuum. Care should be taken as distillation of large quantities can lead to decomposition with liberation of CO2 and isobutylene; use the necessary precautions. [Carpino J Am Chem Soc 79 98 1957, Beilstein 6 IV 629.]
