Key Properties
Hydroquinone (HQ) is an aromatic dihydroxy compound with the molecular formula C₆H₆O₂ and CAS No. 123-31-9. It appears as a white crystalline solid that may darken upon exposure to air and light due to oxidation. It has a melting point of about 172–174 °C and is soluble in water, alcohol, and ether. Hydroquinone exhibits strong reducing and antioxidant properties.
Key Features
Hydroquinone is a highly effective polymerization inhibitor and antioxidant, widely used to prevent unwanted polymerization in monomers such as styrene and acrylics. It provides excellent stabilization performance, improves storage safety, and enhances product shelf life. It also functions as a reducing agent in various chemical processes.
Main Applications
Hydroquinone is widely used as a polymerization inhibitor for monomers including styrene, acrylic acid, and methacrylates. It is also used in coatings, adhesives, and resin systems to improve stability. In addition, it is used in photographic chemicals, dyes, rubber processing, cosmetics (skin care formulations), and as a chemical intermediate in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.
Production Process
Hydroquinone is typically produced via the hydroxylation of phenol using hydrogen peroxide, followed by separation and purification processes to obtain high-purity product suitable for industrial applications.
