Propyl 4-hydroxybenzoate (PHB), is a p-hydroxybenzoate derivative. It can be prepared by reacting p-hydroxybenzoic acid with n-propanol in the presence of an acidic ionic liquid.It crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c.It is reported to be an endocrine disrupting compound.

Application

It is hydrolyzed to p-hydroxybenzoic acid, conjugated and the conjugates are rapidly excreted in the urine. There is no evidence of accumulation. Acute toxicity studies in animals indicate that propyl paraben is relatively non-toxic by both oral and parenteral routes, although it is mildly irritating to the skin.