CAS: 4910-04-7

3-(tert-Butyl)-4-hydroxybenzonitrile

3-(tert-Butyl)-4-hydroxybenzonitrile (BHT) is a chemical compound that has been used experimentally as an antioxidant and as a stabilizer for polymers. It is commonly used in the production of polyurethanes, polyethylene, and polypropylene. BHT reacts with oxygen to form a radical cation, which can stop the chain reaction before it leads to crosslinking or other forms of polymer degradation. The time required for the reaction depends on the temperature at which it is carried out. Refluxing will produce more stable products than boiling. The use of a solvent may be necessary because BHT will react with water and most organic solvents in order to form an alcohol.