3-Methylsalicylic acid
3-Methylsalicylic acid (CAS: 83-40-9; Formula: CH3C6H3(OH)CO2H; Molar Mass: 152.15 g/mol) is a valuable organic building block. This aromatic carboxylic acid serves as a key intermediate in chemical synthesis, particularly in the preparation of various heterocyclic compounds and pharmaceutical precursors. Its specific structure makes it useful for targeted molecular design in research and development.
- IUPAC
- 2-Hydroxy-3-methylbenzoic acid,o-Cresotic acid
- Synonyms
- 2-Hydroxy-3-methylbenzoic acido-Cresotic acid

Synthesis of Benzoxazinones
3-Methylsalicylic acid is utilised in the synthesis of 8-methyl-2-thioxo-2,3-dihydro-4H-1,3-benzoxazin-4-one and 7-hydroxy-8-methyl-2-thioxo-2,3-dihydro-4H-1,3-benzoxazin-4-one, contributing to the development of novel heterocyclic structures.
Preparation of Amino Alcohols
This compound has been employed in the synthesis of hydroxymethylmexiletine enantiomers, including (R)-, (S)-, and (RS)-forms, demonstrating its utility in stereoselective synthesis.
Organic Synthesis Intermediate
As a versatile building block, 3-Methylsalicylic acid is suitable for a wide range of organic synthesis reactions, facilitating the creation of complex molecules for research and industrial applications.
| Molecular weight | 152.15 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | CH3C6H3(OH)CO2H |
| Assay | ≥98.0% (T) |
| Application | 3-Methylsalicylic acid was used in the synthesis of:• 8-methyl-2-thioxo-2,3-dihydro-4H-1,3-benzoxazin-4-one1 • 7-hydroxy-8-methyl-2-thioxo-2,3-dihydro-4H-1,3-benzoxazin-4-one1• (R)-, (S)- and (RS)-hydroxymethylmexiletine2 |
| Melting point | 163-165 °C(lit.)163-165 °C |


Hazard statements
- H302Harmful if swallowed
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H318Causes serious eye damage
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Faceshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xn |
| Risk statements (R) | 22-37/38-41 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36/39 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is 3-Methylsalicylic acid used for?
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3-Methylsalicylic acid is primarily used as a building block in organic synthesis, including the preparation of benzoxazinone derivatives and amino alcohols.
What are the CAS number and formula for 3-Methylsalicylic acid?
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The CAS number for 3-Methylsalicylic acid is 83-40-9, and its molecular formula is CH3C6H3(OH)CO2H.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies 3-Methylsalicylic acid with an assay of ≥98.0% (T). We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should 3-Methylsalicylic acid be handled safely?
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Handling requires appropriate personal protective equipment, including a dust mask (N95), eyeshields, face shields, and gloves, due to its potential to cause skin irritation, serious eye damage, respiratory irritation, and being harmful if swallowed.
Is 3-Methylsalicylic acid packed and exported by TSS?
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Yes, Tech Serve Solutions is a global supplier and exporter of fine chemicals, including 3-Methylsalicylic acid, which is available for international shipment.
How can I request a quote or sample for 3-Methylsalicylic acid?
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To request a quote or sample, please contact our sales team through the website or by phone, providing the product name and CAS number (83-40-9).
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