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Chemical Properties

white powder

Uses

Despite its health risks, 4-tert-Octylphenol is used in manufacturing processes as an intermediate for surfactants, synthetic rubber additives, and resins. Additionally, it serves in the production of alkylphenol ethoxylates. Commonly found in detergents, cleaning products, and emulsifiers, it is also present, though less frequently, in paints, personal care products, pesticides, paper, pulp, and textiles. The widespread use of 4t-OP highlights the need for awareness and regulation due to its potential adverse effects on both human health and the environment.

General Description

4-tert-Octylphenol (4t-OP) is a chemical known for its toxicity and estrogenic properties in mammalian cells, making it an endocrine-disrupting chemical with potential harm to human health. It acts as a weak estrogenic pollutant, binding to estrogen receptors and exhibiting estrogenic effects in vitro. Studies have investigated its transformation under irradiation and hydroxyl radical exposure. This substance has been identified as detrimental to the male reproductive system in vertebrates, causing alterations in sex hormone levels, estrus cycles, reproductive outcomes, neonatal sexual development, and leading to impaired steroid hormone production and testicular atrophy at high doses.

Environmental Fate

Studies have shown that 4t-OP will adsorb to sediments.

Purification Methods

Crystallise the phenol from n-hexane and/or distil it in a vacuum. [Beilstein 6 III 2051, 6 IV 3484.]

Toxicity evaluation

4t-OP has been shown to be an estrogen receptor (ER) agonist. Estrogenic effects of 4t-OP have been demonstrated in human cells, with 4t-OP displacing the natural estrogen 17b estradiol from its receptor, and 4t-OP inducing cell proliferation in estrogen-dependent cell proliferation assays. In vivo confirmation of 4t-OP’s estrogenicity has been confirmed with the uterotrophic assay.