Dihydroxybiphenyl

Dihydroxybiphenyl (as known as biphenol) refers to a class of organic compounds consisting of a biphenyl structure with two hydroxyl groups attached. The most common isomers are 2,2'-dihydroxybiphenyl and 4,4'-dihydroxybiphenyl.

Chemical properties

• Molecular Formula: C₁₂H₁₀O₂
• Molecular Weight: 186.21 g/mol
• CAS Number: 92-88-6 (4,4'-Dihydroxybiphenyl)

Isomers

• 2,2'-Dihydroxybiphenyl: This isomer has hydroxyl groups attached to the second carbon of each benzene ring.
• 4,4'-Dihydroxybiphenyl: This isomer has hydroxyl groups attached to the fourth carbon of each benzene ring.

Synthesis and applications

Dihydroxybiphenyls are synthesized through various organic reactions and are used in the preparation of polyether liquid crystals. They also serve as intermediates in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and dyes.

Safety and handling

Dihydroxybiphenyls should be handled with care, using appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves and eye protection. They are classified under various hazard categories, including skin sensitization and aquatic chronic toxicity.

See also

• Biphenyl
• Hydroquinone
• Phenol

References

• Sigma-Aldrich. "4,4'-Dihydroxybiphenyl." Retrieved from Sigma-Aldrich (https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/aldrich/168734).
• Thermo Fisher Scientific. "2,2'-Dihydroxybiphenyl." Retrieved from Thermo Fisher (https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/fr/en/A14800.22).
• NIST Chemistry WebBook. "1,1'-Biphenyl-4,4'-diol." Retrieved from NIST (https://webbook.nist.gov/cgi/inchi?ID=C92886&Mask=4).