Cumyl alcohol 4-isopropylbenzyl alcohol (CAS# 536-60-7) is a critical aromatic alcohol intermediate with the molecular formula C₁₀H₁₄O. Its structure, featuring an isopropyl group (-CH(CH₃)₂) and a benzyl alcohol moiety (-CH₂OH), endows it with high reactivity in esterification and oxidation reactions, making it indispensable in pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals, and materials science. Global leaders such as Pfizer, Merck, and BASF utilize it in synthesizing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), fragrance fixatives, and UV-curable resins, driving advancements in healthcare and consumer chemicals.
Application in the Pharmaceutical Industry
This compound serves as a core intermediate in pharmaceutical development, particularly for synthesizing NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) and antifungal drugs (e.g., clotrimazole). Pfizer employs it in the production of Phase II clinical NSAID candidates, while Merck’s high-purity pharmaceutical-grade products dominate a significant share of the global high-end market, supporting innovations in anti-inflammatory therapies.
Major Chemical Suppliers
The global supply chain is led by international giants: Sigma-Aldrich dominates the high-end research market with USP/NF certifications and rigorous analytical reports; TCI Chemicals maintains a strong presence in Asia through rapid emergency delivery; BASF, as a cost leader, leverages integrated production to offer competitive industrial-grade products.
Regional Market Dynamics
Europe, centered on Germany and Switzerland, drives demand for high-purity pharmaceutical-grade 4-isopropylbenzyl alcohol but is relocating production to regions with lower costs due to regulatory pressures and tariff policies. Sanctioned Russia has shifted to Chinese suppliers for the majority of its needs, while Southeast Asia, fueled by cosmetics and coatings industries, sees rapid growth via regional distribution hubs.
Regulation and Environmental Considerations
Stringent global regulations, including EU REACH requirements and regional labeling standards, impose compliance costs on enterprises. Environmental pressures have spurred green technologies like enzymatic synthesis and photocatalysis, while some regions face challenges in securing efficient production inputs.
Future Prospects
Technological innovations, such as advanced catalytic processes and new applications in emerging sectors like new energy, will expand its scope. Geopolitical strategies like optimized supply chains and regional partnerships will reshape logistics. Enterprises must prioritize green technologies and regional compliance to address potential substitution challenges.
Conclusion
The 4-isopropylbenzyl alcohol market features a split between high-end pharmaceutical barriers and mid-low cost fine chemical competition. Asia-Pacific dominates production, while Europe leads in high-purity innovation. Success will hinge on advanced catalytic technologies, localized supply chains, and capturing growth in fragrances and new energy sectors.
XinChem: Your Trusted Global Supplier
XinChem is a leading global supplier of aromatic alcohols, specializing in innovative R&D and large-scale production of 4-isopropylbenzyl alcohol, delivering high-performance solutions for pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals, and materials sectors.
Ⅰ. Technological Advantages
XinChem employs advanced photocatalysis-enzymatic coupling technology to ensure product purity (pharmaceutical grade and industrial grade) and stability. Our green production, with high wastewater reuse rates, is certified by international environmental standards, boasting a lower carbon footprint than industry average.
Ⅱ. Product Advantages
- High purity: ·pharmaceutical grade ≥98.0%, material grade ≥98.0%.
- Stable supply: Supporting orders of various scales, with efficient delivery across Eurasia.
Ⅲ. Application Areas
- Pharmaceuticals: Key intermediate for NSAIDs and antifungal drugs.
- Fine chemicals: Fragrance fixatives and UV-curable resin monomers.
- Materials science: Polymer antioxidants and liquid crystal solvents.
Ⅳ. Service Support
- Logistics: Fast Eurasian delivery via strategic warehouses.
- Flexible cooperation: Small-batch trials and sample testing to reduce R&D risks.
Ⅴ. Reasons for Choosing XinChem
✅ Expertise: 20 years of lactone chemistry experience, serving Top 20 global pharma.
✅ Flexibility: Adapts to custom requirements, including chiral synthesis.
✅ Cost performance: The perfect combination of high quality and competitive price.
Contact Us
Website: www.xinchem.com
Email: sales1@xinchem.com
WhatsApp: +86 180-4980-0532
Post time: Jul-06-2025