Hydroquinone

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Hydroquinone Specification

Appearance
White to Off-white Crystalline Powder

Density
1.32 Gram per cubic centimeter(g/cm3)

Solubility
Soluble in Water, Alcohol, Ether; Slightly Soluble in Benzene

Storage Instructions
Store in Cool, Dry Place, Protect from Light and Moisture

Molecular Weight
110.11 g/mol

Odour
Odourless

Ph Level
5.5 - 7.0 (5% Solution)

Chemical Name
Hydroquinone

Other Names
1,4-Benzenediol, Quinol

Classification
Aromatic Organic Compound

CAS No
123-31-9

Type
Analytical Reagent, Industrial Grade

Application
Photography Developer, Polymerization Inhibitor, Skin Depigmentation, Cosmetics

Application Method
Direct Use as Reagent or Additive

Raw Material
Benzene-derived Compounds

Physical State
Solid (Crystalline Powder)

Usage
Laboratory, Industrial, Cosmetic Applications

Shelf Life
Up to 3 Years if Stored Properly

Purity(%)
99% Min

Drying Time
Not Applicable (Solid State)

Best Before
36 Months from Manufacturing Date

About Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone, also known as benzene-1,4-diol or quinol, is an aromatic organic compound that is a type of phenol, a derivative of benzene, having the chemical formula C6H4(OH)2. It has two hydroxyl groups bonded to a benzene ring in a para position. It is a white granular solid. Substituted derivatives of this parent compound are also referred to as hydroquinones. The name "hydroquinone" was coined by Friedrich Whlerin 1843.

Hydroquinone has a variety of uses principally associated with its action as a reducing agent that is soluble in water. It is a major component in most black and white photographic developers for film and paper where, with the compound metol, it reduces silver halides to elemental silver.

There are various other uses associated with its reducing power. As a polymerization inhibitor, hydroquinone prevents polymerization of acrylic acid, methyl methacrylate, cyanoacrylate, and other monomers that are susceptible to radical-initiated polymerization. This application exploits the antioxidant properties of hydroquinone.

Hydroquinone can undergo mild oxidation to convert to the compound parabenzoquinone, C6H4O2, often called p-quinone or simply quinone. Reduction of quinone reverses this reaction back to hydroquinone. Some biochemical compounds in nature have this sort of hydroquinone or quinone section in their structures, such as Coenzyme Q, and can undergo similar redox interconversions.

Hydroquinone can lose a proton from both hydroxyl groups to form a diphenolate ion. The disodium diphenolate salt of hydroquinone is used as an alternating comonomer unit in the production of the polymer PEEK.

Extensive Range of Applications

Hydroquinone fulfills critical roles across industries, including as a developer in photography, an inhibitor in polymerization, and an active agent in skin care products like depigmentation creams. Its versatility supports both industrial and cosmetic formulations, as well as routine laboratory work, making it a valuable resource for multiple sectors.

Safety Measures and Storage

This compound is stable under recommended conditionsstore in a cool, dry place and protect from light and moisture. Avoid contact with skin and eyes, and do not ingest or inhale the powder. For safe handling and storage, always use appropriate protective equipment, and keep away from strong oxidizing agents and bases as Hydroquinone is incompatible with these substances.

FAQs of Hydroquinone:

Q: How should Hydroquinone be stored to maintain its stability and effectiveness?

A: Hydroquinone should be stored in a cool, dry area away from light and moisture, ideally in sealed HDPE or fiber drums. This helps preserve its stability and ensures the product remains effective for up to three years.

Q: What are the primary uses of Hydroquinone in industry and laboratories?

A: Hydroquinone is widely used as a developer in photographic processes, as an inhibitor to prevent unwanted polymerization, and as a depigmenting agent in cosmetic preparations. It also finds application as an analytical reagent in laboratory settings.

Q: When is Hydroquinone typically applied in cosmetic products?

A: Hydroquinone is incorporated into skin depigmentation formulations and cosmetic products to address issues like hyperpigmentation and age spots, under strict regulatory guidelines to ensure safe usage.

Q: Where can Hydroquinone be sourced in India?

A: In India, Hydroquinone is available through chemical distributors and suppliers. It is commonly supplied in HDPE drums, fiber drums, or bags suitable for industrial, laboratory, and cosmetic applications.

Q: What steps should be taken if Hydroquinone contacts skin or eyes?

A: If Hydroquinone comes into contact with skin or eyes, rinse the affected area thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Hydroquinone can cause skin irritation and eye damage, so immediate action is recommended.

Q: How does Hydroquinone benefit polymerization and photography applications?

A: Hydroquinone acts as an effective polymerization inhibitor, preventing unwanted reactions in monomers during storage and processing. In photography, it serves as a developer, aiding in the reduction of silver halides to metallic silver on film or paper.

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