1,3-Propanediol, 1-(3-chlorophenyl)-, (1S)-, brings together chemistry and industry in a pretty straightforward molecule that deserves a closer look. Known by the molecular formula C9H11ClO2, its structure features a 3-chlorophenyl group attached to a propanediol backbone, distinguishing it from similar diols. The arrangement of its chemical bonds gives this compound both character and challenge. At room temperature, the compound can manifest as a white to off-white crystalline solid, sometimes appearing as powder, flakes, or pearls, depending on processing and storage conditions. Its unique molecular structure, with a single chiral center at the (1S)-position, means enantiomeric purity can play a role in its applications, especially when processes or products depend on chirality.
1,3-Propanediol, 1-(3-chlorophenyl)-, (1S)-, stands out with a molecular weight around 186.64 g/mol. Its density approaches 1.25 g/cm³, placing it among denser, robust intermediates that stay stable under normal storage temperatures. Not all diols offer the same firmness in physical form—some melt or dissolve more readily—but this one’s melting range falls between 51-57°C, a point at which crystals begin to transition into liquid, making it manageable for those handling synthesis and downstream processing. Solubility tells another part of its story: its polarity grants compatibility with polar solvents, meaning water, ethanol, and acetone can dissolve it, but it resists blending with non-polar solvents due to the presence of the chloro group. Its odor carries a faint but noticeable scent, typical of chlorinated organics, which operators notice during open handling. This characteristic holds practical significance for safe storage, so proper ventilation or closed systems often become the standard in the lab or manufacturing line.
Companies seeking to import or export this chemical rely on the Harmonized System (HS) Code specific to chlorinated organic compounds, which typically sits within the 2903 heading (Halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons). That’s not mere bureaucratic red tape; accurate coding keeps compliance on track and prevents border issues. Lab suppliers and chemical warehouses provide this compound at varying purities, usually above 98%, with detailed certs of analysis to guarantee batch consistency. Specifications include moisture content, trace metals, and the percentage of (1S)-enantiomer, because impurities or a switch to the (1R)-form can dramatically affect processes downstream. For those preparing solutions, this compound dissolves at standard concentrations per liter without precipitating unwanted solids, except under extreme pH or temperature shifts.
Experience in chemical operations shows how the form—whether flake, solid, or powder—affects handling and mixing speed. Powdered versions disperse faster in solution, while crystal and pearl types reduce dusting but dissolve slower. Containers demand sealing; moisture can make the flakes lump together, changing flow and dosing accuracy. This kind of humidity sensitivity often prompts storage in moisture-barrier bags or under inert gas, a routine in most chemical warehouses. Technicians tend to prefer working with powders when batching small lots and solids or pearls for bulk charging to avoid material loss.
Chlorinated diols require strict attention in labs and warehouses. For 1,3-Propanediol, 1-(3-chlorophenyl)-, (1S)-, the presence of the aromatic chloro group means that the compound may cause skin or eye irritation, emphasizing protective measures like gloves, goggles, and fume hoods. Inhalation of dust or fumes should be avoided; closed handling systems or local extraction fans guard against accidental exposure. Compared to non-chlorinated diols, the environmental persistence jumps: chlorinated aromatics linger in waste streams unless treated with oxidizing or advanced remediation methods. Disposal must observe local and national rules to avoid groundwater contamination. In case of accidental spills, operators neutralize or collect with absorbent media, handling the waste as hazardous until safe, permanent disposal. Chemical safety data sheets (SDS) cut through confusion, spelling out not just acute toxicity but also long-term risks, which can include organ-specific effects from repeated exposure. Workers handling this compound every day benefit most from hands-on safety training, not just printed documentation.
Industries often look at 1,3-Propanediol, 1-(3-chlorophenyl)-, (1S)- for its reactive diol positions, which means the two hydroxyl groups at each end can undergo efficient esterification or etherification. The aromatic chloro substituent, unusual among simple diols, opens the door to further functionalization—manufacturers tap into this feature to build complex pharmaceutical precursors or fine-tune polymer properties. As a raw material, it serves as a backbone for new molecules rather than a finished good itself, underpinning advances in plastics, specialty resins, or agrochemical formulations. Synthetic chemists appreciate its clear reactivity patterns, low profile of unexpected byproducts, and access to both hydrophilic and hydrophobic chemical environments. Those running pilot plants or scale-ups keep an eye on the consistency in its melting and flow properties, knowing that any shift in physical form—say, from flakes to powdered residue—can introduce complications in reactor loading or transfer.
Real-world use of this compound brings up practical issues—dust management, clumping, and safe dosing. Facilities with high humidity battle with caking and bridging in hoppers, where powdered material sticks and fails to feed smoothly. Equipment engineers often solve this with vibration packs on feeder bins and desiccant breathers on storage drums. In process plants, operators sometimes find that powder forms create a fine airborne dust that is tough to contain; switching to larger pearl or flake formats can cut airborne concentrations, keeping workplace exposure below occupational limits. On the regulatory side, documentation for every shipment includes not only safety clearances, but also certificates of molecular formula, identity, and test results for chlorinated aromatic impurities, since some jurisdictions limit allowable levels in raw material imports.
Behind every specification and material safety advisory, the real measure of 1,3-Propanediol, 1-(3-chlorophenyl)-, (1S)- rests in its impact on higher-value chemical manufacturing. Over years of working with both commodity and specialty chemicals, I’ve seen how intermediates like this deliver versatility on the production floor. The unique mix of diol reactivity, aromatic substitution, and chiral control opens doors for manufacturers who want to design next-generation polymers, tailor surface coatings, or build up drug side chains that need that specific 3-chloro pattern for biological activity. If sales and tech support teams lack solid answers on product purity, form, and safe handling, processes slow and projects can miss critical milestones. In my own work, training teams to check for subtle changes in physical form—a move from dry powder to clumps after a humid week, for instance—saves hours in troubleshooting and helps protect both workers and end products.
To maximize the benefits of this chemical and cut down on headaches, practical action matters more than policy statements. Warehouses and plants should invest in good climate-control solutions for storage, fit storage bins with dehumidifiers or molecular sieve packs, and rotate stock to keep materials within spec. Operating with clear PPE protocols and maintaining up-to-date spill response kits keeps risk low even when material properties make handling tricky. On the documentation side, keeping digital and hard copies of SDS, HS codes, and product specifications ensures everyone from purchasing to end-user has reliable, immediate access. Regular in-house training helps builders and production techs spot deviation in product appearance, which always acts as an early warning sign for storage or transit issues. Research labs working with these diols should also focus more on safe handling, eyeing the long-term risks from repeated low-level exposure; switching to less hazardous raw materials where possible works, but for specialty builds, this molecule fills a niche that others simply can’t.
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