2-(Methylthio)benzoic acid is an aromatic carboxylic acid bearing a methylthio group at the ortho-position. The compound is odourless to faintly sulfurous, air-stable, and readily soluble in common organic solvents (ethanol, methanol, ethyl acetate, chloroform), while only sparingly soluble in cold water.
Key physical data: m.p. 171–173 °C; pKa (25 °C) ≈ 4.0; UV λmax (EtOH) 230 nm, 280 nm; no significant absorption >320 nm. The substance shows good thermal stability and can be stored indefinitely in amber glass at 2–8 °C under nitrogen.
Typical uses:
Key intermediate for the synthesis of benzothiazine-type anti-inflammatory agents, herbicidal sulfonylureas and fungicidal anthranilic acid derivatives.
Starting material for the preparation of 2-(methylthio)benzamides and their corresponding sulfoxide/sulfone analogues used as PPAR-α/δ dual agonists for NASH therapy .
Ligand precursor for palladium-catalysed C–H activation chemistry and building block for liquid-crystalline materials.
Hazard statement: Causes skin and eye irritation; may cause respiratory irritation. Use gloves, goggles and a dust mask. SDS available on request.
