P-hydroxyanisole: The "minor" type of anti-caking agent has achieved significant growth rate.

p-Hydroxyanisole (MEHQ), also known as 4-methoxyphenol, has the chemical formula C₇H₈O₂. At room temperature, it is in the form of white tablets or waxy crystals, with a melting point of 52-57 ℃ and a boiling point of 243 ℃.

In 2024, the global sales of p-Hydroxyanisole (MEHQ) were approximately 260 million US dollars. From 2025 to 2031, the p-Hydroxyanisole industry is expected to grow at an average annual rate of 6.1%. The core demand comes from the following three aspects: ① MEHQ is the most commonly used polymerization inhibitor for vinyl monomers, accounting for 65% of the entire market. The expansion of PVC and PMMA production has led to an increase in the addition amount of high-purity MEHQ by 20%; ② It accounts for 25% in the ultraviolet absorbers and dye intermediates. After the EU REACH classified MEHQ as "low concern", enterprises accelerated the adoption of non-phenol routes; ③ It accounts for 10% in the synthesis of food-grade antioxidant BHA. With the upgrading of regulations on the shelf life of beverages and snacks in Southeast Asia, the export has an average annual growth of 8%.

The advantages of p-Hydroxyanisole are concentrated in three aspects: First, it is process-friendly. As an efficient polymerization inhibitor for vinyl monomers, it can be copolymerized without the need for removal, simplifying the process and reducing energy consumption; Second, it has multiple functions, including ultraviolet absorption, antioxidant, and tyrosinase inhibition activities, and can be used in photomask stabilizers, liquid crystal display materials, and whitening raw materials; Third, it is green and safe. Its LD50 is 3200 mg kg⁻¹, the NFPA health rating is 1, and it is biodegradable, complying with REACH, RCEP and other regulations. It has significant compliance advantages in replacing traditional phenolic alcohol preservatives.