4-Hydroxy-2-butanone
4-Hydroxy-2-butanone (CAS: 590-90-9), a versatile organic compound with the linear formula HOCH2CH2COCH3 and a molecular weight of 88.11 g/mol, serves as a key building block in chemical synthesis. This ketone, also known as 2-hydroxyethyl methyl ketone, is instrumental in the preparation of various complex molecules, including pharmaceuticals and natural products. Its bifunctional nature, possessing both hydroxyl and ketone groups, allows for diverse chemical transformations.
- IUPAC
- 2-Hydroxyethyl methyl ketone
- Synonyms
- 2-Hydroxyethyl methyl ketone

Synthesis of 3-Buten-2-one
4-Hydroxy-2-butanone can be dehydrated over anatase-TiO2 catalyst to yield 3-buten-2-one, a useful Michael acceptor in organic synthesis.
Preparation of Heterocyclic Compounds
This compound is employed in the synthesis of heterocyclic molecules, such as 4-methyl-5-hydroxymethylthiazole, which are important structural motifs in various biologically active compounds.
Intermediate for Natural Product Synthesis
4-Hydroxy-2-butanone has been utilised as a precursor in the total synthesis of complex natural products, including (±)-lineatin and verrucarin.
Lactone Synthesis
It serves as a valuable starting material for the synthesis of lactones, including mevalonic acid lactone and various β-hydroxylactones, which are relevant in biochemical pathways and drug development.
| Molecular weight | 88.11 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | HOCH2CH2COCH3 |
| Assay | 95% |
| Boiling point | 73-76 °C/12 mmHg(lit.) |
| Density | 1.023 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.430(lit.) |
| Application | 4-Hydroxy-2-butanone has been used in the synthesis of:• 3-buten-2-one via dehydration over anatase-TiO2 catalyst1• 4-methyl-5-hydroxymethylthiazole2• (±)-lineatin3• mevalonic acid lactone4,5• verrucarin6• β-hydroxylactones7 |

Hazard statements
- H226Flammable liquid and vapour
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 33 °C / 91.4 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 1993C 3 / PGIII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Risk statements (R) | 10 |
| Safety statements (S) | 16 |
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 4-Hydroxy-2-butanone used for?
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4-Hydroxy-2-butanone is primarily used as a building block in organic synthesis for the preparation of compounds such as 3-buten-2-one, heterocyclic compounds, natural products like (±)-lineatin and verrucarin, and lactones including mevalonic acid lactone.
What is the CAS number and formula for 4-Hydroxy-2-butanone?
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The CAS number for 4-Hydroxy-2-butanone is 590-90-9 and its linear formula is HOCH2CH2COCH3.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply for 4-Hydroxy-2-butanone?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies 4-Hydroxy-2-butanone with an assay of 95%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
What are the safety considerations for handling 4-Hydroxy-2-butanone?
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4-Hydroxy-2-butanone is a flammable liquid and vapour (H226). Handle with appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields, face shields, gloves, and suitable respiratory protection. Ensure adequate ventilation and keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, and open flames.
How is 4-Hydroxy-2-butanone packed, shipped, and exported?
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4-Hydroxy-2-butanone is available for export globally by Tech Serve Solutions, adhering to all relevant shipping and handling regulations for flammable liquids.
How can I request a quote or sample of 4-Hydroxy-2-butanone?
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To request a quote or sample of 4-Hydroxy-2-butanone, please contact our sales team through the website or by phone.
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