Top 10 Manufacturers of Agrochemical Intermediate CAS No. 98-53-3 in 2025

Understanding 4-tert-Butylphenol (CAS No. 98-53-3)

4-tert-Butylphenol (CAS No. 98-53-3), also known as p-tert-butylphenol, is a versatile aromatic compound widely used as an agrochemical intermediate. It features a phenolic hydroxyl group and a bulky tert-butyl substituent that together provide chemical stability, lipophilicity, and resistance to oxidative degradation. These properties make it especially valuable in the synthesis of selective herbicides, fungicides, and industrial biocides.

This compound is often involved in the production of phenoxy herbicides and aryl ether-based actives, which are key in controlling broadleaf weeds, mildew, rust, and other threats in cereal, fruit, and industrial crops.

Importance of CAS No. 98-53-3 in Crop Protection

Foundational Structure for Phenolic Agrochemicals:

Acts as a starting material for the synthesis of aryl ether herbicides and fungicidal compounds with high binding affinity to plant enzyme systems.

Improved Lipophilicity and Plant Penetration:

The bulky tert-butyl group enhances fat solubility, allowing better systemic absorption and longevity in field conditions.

Oxidative Stability and Shelf-Life Enhancement:

Compounds derived from 4-tert-butylphenol show higher resistance to UV degradation and oxidation, making them suitable for long-lasting formulations.

Key Component in Pre- and Post-Emergent Herbicides:

Plays a role in synthesis of intermediates for both soil-applied and foliar agrochemicals, providing flexibility in application timing.

Industrial Relevance Beyond Agrochemicals:

Also used in resins, coatings, and stabilizers, making it a high-volume intermediate with globally optimized manufacturing standards.

Top 10 Manufacturers of CAS No. 98-53-3

1. BASF

• Location: Ludwigshafen, Germany

• Overview: BASF is a global leader in producing alkylphenol derivatives like 4-tert-butylphenol, supporting both agrochemical synthesis and industrial resins.

• Specialty: Integrated production of aromatic intermediates under EU REACH guidelines.

2. SI Group

• Location: Schenectady, New York, USA

• Overview: SI Group specializes in phenolic intermediates and antioxidants. Their production of 4-tert-butylphenol supports agrochemical, polymer, and lubricant industries.

• Specialty: High-purity phenol chemistry and global export capabilities.

3. Eastfine

• Location: Changzhou City, Jiangsu Province, China

• Overview: Eastfine manufactures agrochemical intermediates including CAS 98-53-3 for use in herbicides and fungicides. Their operations emphasize international compliance, quality control, and cost-effective global supply.

• Specialty: Halogenated and phenolic intermediates for agro applications.

4. DIC Corporation

• Location: Tokyo, Japan

• Overview: DIC produces a broad portfolio of specialty chemicals including phenolic compounds. Their 4-tert-butylphenol is used in synthesis of fungicides and industrial crop coatings.

• Specialty: Fine chemicals with tight purity specifications.

5. LANXESS

• Location: Cologne, Germany

• Overview: LANXESS manufactures alkylphenols and antioxidant intermediates used in pesticides and high-performance resins. Their facilities are equipped for high-volume, low-impurity production.

• Specialty: Scale manufacturing with a strong ESG focus.

6. Tagros Chemicals India Pvt. Ltd.

• Location: Chennai, India

• Overview: Tagros exports key agrochemical intermediates, including 4-tert-butylphenol, for downstream herbicide and fungicide manufacturing.

• Specialty: Export-grade crop protection intermediates at scale.

7. Schuelke & Mayr GmbH (Air Liquide Group)

• Location: Norderstedt, Germany

• Overview: Specializing in biocidal and antifungal chemistry, Schülke produces 4-tert-butylphenol for use in agricultural disinfectants and protection products.

• Specialty: Antimicrobial intermediates with regulatory compliance.

8. ADEKA Corporation

• Location: Tokyo, Japan

• Overview: ADEKA develops intermediates used in agrochemical synthesis and protective coatings for seeds and leaves. Their 4-tert-butylphenol serves both pesticide and plant health sectors.

• Specialty: Co-formulants and stabilizers for agro applications.

9. Finchimica S.p.A.

• Location: Manerbio, Italy

• Overview: Finchimica supports European agrochemical producers with REACH-compliant intermediates like CAS 98-53-3.

• Specialty: Custom synthesis and process development for aromatic intermediates.

10. Albemarle Corporation

• Location: Charlotte, North Carolina, USA

• Overview: Though better known for bromine and lithium products, Albemarle also produces specialty phenolic compounds used in agrochemical and resin synthesis.

• Specialty: Functional intermediates for high-end chemical sectors.

Trends in the Agrochemical Intermediates Market

Increased Demand for Lipophilic Herbicides:

Intermediates like CAS 98-53-3 support the shift toward systemic, long-residual herbicides that are rainfast and efficient at low doses.

Regulatory Push for Safer Phenolic Compounds:

There is growing demand for intermediates with clean degradation profiles and low toxicity, making high-purity 4-tert-butylphenol essential.

Dual-Purpose Agrochemical Ingredients:

Compounds derived from this intermediate are used not just in actives but also as stabilizers or UV protectants in formulations.

Growth in Coating and Formulation Technologies:

With the rise of seed treatments and controlled-release fertilizers, demand for phenolic intermediates in coating agents is also expanding.

Emerging Market Manufacturing Partnerships:

Companies are partnering with global CDMOs to ensure a secure, cost-effective supply of this and related intermediates, especially in Latin America and Southeast Asia.

Conclusion

CAS No. 98-53-3 (4-tert-Butylphenol) remains a cornerstone intermediate in the synthesis of modern herbicides, fungicides, and formulation aids. With manufacturers like BASF, SI Group, and Eastfine leading the charge in high-quality, scalable production, this compound continues to be vital to the evolving agrochemical landscape.

As agriculture trends toward more effective and longer-lasting protection products, intermediates like this one will only grow in strategic importance across the crop protection industry.