6-Amino-M-Cresol belongs to the family of organic chemicals that show up in research labs, dye manufacturing, and specialty chemical synthesis. With its chemical formula C7H9NO and a molecular weight of 123.15 g/mol, this compound appears in various forms, but most often as a pale yellow to light brown solid. The structure of 6-Amino-M-Cresol features an amino group (-NH2) attached to a methylphenol backbone, specifically at the 6th position, which gives rise to unique chemical behavior. Technicians might find it as crystals or flaky powders, rarely in liquid form under standard room temperature. The density of this material hovers around 1.18 g/cm³, which provides clues to its handling and storage. Its HS Code, often referenced in global shipping and customs—sometimes listed as 29222990—signals its place within the amino-phenol class, so regulatory paperwork matches practical realities for those moving cargo across borders.
This compound, known for its reactivity thanks to both amino and hydroxyl groups on the aromatic ring, becomes a go-to intermediate in dye and pigment industries. Chemists appreciate the dual functional groups, which means possible hydrogen bonding, solubility changes, and influence on color development during formulation work. 6-Amino-M-Cresol dissolves moderately well in ethanol and other organic solvents, but less so in water. These physical properties play out in each batch I’ve seen field-tested—crystalline or powdery textures resist caking if properly stored, which matters for large-scale manufacturing and lab prep alike. Handling the raw material safely becomes a focal point because phenolic compounds can irritate the skin, and the presence of the amino group increases the risk of sensitization. Gloves, goggles, and a reliable fume hood help create a safer workspace, not just for peace of mind but to prevent costly accidents and unnecessary downtime. Every production process counting on this raw material expects consistency in melting point, which usually sits between 95°C and 100°C, so any deviation signals a batch problem worth close investigation.
Its structure allows 6-Amino-M-Cresol to act as a bridge molecule in organic synthesis—connecting pieces that otherwise struggle to react under milder conditions. In my own experience sourcing specialty chemicals for pilot plant projects, this versatility translates into lower costs by reducing the number of reaction steps. You find it in pearl, flake, or crystalline forms, each tailored to a specific operation. Crystalline granules travel better in bulk containers, while powders speed up dissolution in small-batch blending. Not much odor rises off a fresh batch, but extended storage in humid conditions can lead to clumping, reminding users that tight, dry packaging remains essential for product stability. Chemical suppliers typically provide this material at a purity of 98% or higher, since even trace impurities can impact downstream product consistency, especially in cosmetic or medical research.
6-Amino-M-Cresol raises some red flags in the safety sheets. This compound can be harmful when inhaled or absorbed through the skin, and the fine powder form increases the risk of unintended exposure. Any spill cleanup demands a careful approach: wetted-down methods, a double-glove protocol, and quick disposal in dedicated chemical waste containers. Storage recommendations from real-world use suggest a cool, ventilated space, outside direct sunlight and away from incompatible chemicals like strong oxidizers or acids. Experience tells me never to overlook ventilation, even if the label says “moderate hazard,” because chronic contact can cause cumulative health effects over time. In many regulatory environments, safety data sheets (SDS) spell out local and international requirements, including those listing the chemical under restricted or hazardous lists for transport.
This material’s reactivity, while attractive in synthesis, turns into a liability if spills or leaks hit waterways or soil. Effluent streams from dye factories or resin plants, where 6-Amino-M-Cresol occasionally serves as a building block, must be closely monitored—both for employee health and local environmental standards. FDA and REACH regulations might come into play, especially if the final product ends up in contact with skin or used in food packaging. Hazard communication hinges on proper labeling and training. Mislabeling shipments incurs heavy fines, so supply chain partners invest in barcoding and digital tracking to avoid legal and financial headaches. Even disposal routes count: incineration at certified waste facilities becomes standard procedure for large-scale users, while laboratories might manage smaller volumes through sealed hazardous waste pickups.
Awareness about the hazardous profile of 6-Amino-M-Cresol drives ongoing research into substitute compounds and better personal protective equipment. Continuous monitoring with real-time air sensors in large facilities lowers the odds of accidental exposure, and regular employee training tightens compliance with evolving government rules. Factory managers now upgrade storage tanks with automated leak detection, while researchers work on biodegradable derivatives for less toxic effluent streams. In my own projects, collaboration with chemical suppliers yielded purer lots with less variability batch-to-batch, which translates to fewer reworks and higher finished product reliability. For smaller users, sharing best practices about containment, personal protective gear, and disposal keeps risks in check while still taking advantage of the chemical’s useful properties.
