🧪 4-Me-TMP

🧪 4-Me-TMP (4-Methylthio-2-methylpropiophenone)

Forensic and Analytical Overview

1. Chemical Identification

Common name: 4-Me-TMP
Systematic name: 1-(4-Methylthio-phenyl)-2-methyl-propan-1-one
Chemical class: Substituted cathinone / thioether derivative
Molecular formula: C₁₁H₁₄OS
Molecular weight: ~194.29 g/mol
Structural relation: Thioether-substituted analogue of 4-methylpropiophenone and structurally related to substituted cathinones and β-ketoamphetamines.

2. Background

4-Me-TMP is a thioether-substituted cathinone analogue first reported in analytical literature in the mid-2010s.
It represents a sulfur-substituted derivative within the β-keto-amphetamine class, occasionally encountered in research and forensic screening of novel synthetic cathinones.

Although chemically similar to known stimulant-type compounds, 4-Me-TMP has no recognized therapeutic or veterinary application and is examined strictly for forensic and analytical reference.

3. Analytical Characterization

Laboratory methods for identification include:

• Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS)

• Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC–MS)

• Infrared (IR) Spectroscopy

• Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR)

• High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (HRMS)

Typical GC–MS fragmentation features include sulfur-containing ion fragments, with distinct m/z peaks associated with the 4-methylthio group and the β-ketone backbone.
IR spectra show characteristic carbonyl stretching near 1690 cm⁻¹.

4. Research and Forensic Relevance

4-Me-TMP is primarily used in:

• Analytical and forensic identification studies

• Structural comparison within the substituted cathinone family

• Development of reference spectra and retention indices

• Method validation in forensic toxicology laboratories

5. Legal and Safety Notes

Status: May fall under analogue or generic cathinone legislation depending on jurisdiction.
Handling: Restricted to accredited laboratories and qualified researchers.
Storage: Store in airtight containers, away from light and moisture.
Safety: Use standard chemical PPE and follow local disposal protocols.

6. Summary

4-Me-TMP is a sulfur-substituted β-keto analogue investigated for analytical and forensic research purposes.
It contributes to the classification of emerging synthetic cathinones and the advancement of identification methodologies in forensic science.

⚠️ For Research Use Only / Not for Human Consumption
Not intended for medical, clinical, or household use.
Authorized laboratory research applications only.