(2S,3S)-(+)-Dibenzoyl-D-tartaric acid stands out among organic acid derivatives for its ability to drive selective resolution in chiral chemistry. Chemists know it by its molecular formula C18H14O8, with a molar mass of 358.30 g/mol. This compound comes from D-tartaric acid by introducing two benzoyl groups at the 2 and 3 positions, resulting in a solid white appearance. As a chiral compound with both stereochemistry and functional aromatic groups, it offers unique possibilities in both research and industry settings, especially where optical purity matters.
This chemical typically presents as fine flakes, crystalline powder, or sometimes as tiny pearls. The structure brings together two chiral centers, which accounts for impressive enantioselectivity. It melts at around 192 to 195°C. Its density measures about 1.48 g/cm³ at 20°C, which is consistent with other tartaric acid derivatives and ensures a reliable handling profile in the lab. The solid remains stable under routine storage conditions, though exposure to excessive heat or moisture could degrade the compound. Water solubility is slight, but solubility increases dramatically in organic solvents like acetone, ethanol, and ethyl acetate, making it a practical tool in organic synthesis.
On the molecular level, (2S,3S)-(+)-dibenzoyl-D-tartaric acid features two esterified benzoic acid groups connected to the D-tartaric acid backbone, preserving the S configuration at both stereocenters. This three-dimensional arrangement underpins its substantial resolving power in separating enantiomers. The rigidity and arrangement of the aromatic rings enable precise intermolecular interactions, especially under conditions favoring crystallization or salt formation. Its form as a solid and crystal matters, since crystal engineering demands a reliable, reproducible polymorph with minimal batch-to-batch variability.
Manufacturers often supply this material with purity above 98%, which allows direct use in pharmaceutical and research applications without further purification. Typical packaging comes in well-sealed containers, offering protection against atmospheric moisture and preventing cross-contamination. The Harmonized System (HS) Code for international trade most commonly used is 2918199090, which places it among other carboxylic acids and their derivatives. In laboratory or production settings, analytical data like melting point, specific rotation (+103° to +106°, typically measured in methanol at 20°C), and NMR spectra serve as quality checkpoints.
While (2S,3S)-(+)-dibenzoyl-D-tartaric acid does not present significant acute toxicity, skin and eye contact should be avoided. Prolonged inhalation of dust may irritate respiratory airways. Users can reduce risk by wearing gloves, goggles, and using dust masks inside ventilated or filtered environments. In my own work, I’ve noticed that storing tartaric acid derivatives in cool, dry environments prevents clumping or degradation. If released in large quantities, this compound, like many organics, has the potential to increase chemical load in water systems, so careful waste handling via approved disposal channels makes more sense than casual disposal.
As a refined specialty chemical, (2S,3S)-(+)-dibenzoyl-D-tartaric acid usually starts as D-tartaric acid sourced from natural or fermentation raw materials, followed by benzoylation steps under controlled conditions. Each batch depends on consistent access to upstream raw materials, as purity standards directly influence downstream chemical and pharmaceutical synthesis. Chemical manufacturers rely on stable supply chains for raw tartaric acid and benzoylating agents, since shortfalls or purity issues easily disrupt high-value processes like drug development or agrochemical production.
Any chemist working with chiral compounds appreciates the structure and properties of (2S,3S)-(+)-dibenzoyl-D-tartaric acid. This resolving agent converts racemic mixtures into optically active compounds with reliable selectivity, shaping synthesis strategies for active pharmaceuticals, specialty polymers, or advanced catalysts. The acid’s role as a foundation for enantiomeric separation connects directly to regulatory and efficacy demands for single-isomer drugs in global markets. From personal experience handling high-purity samples, even slight impurities or inconsistent physical properties affect yields and process robustness, underlining why supplier quality assurance and analytical testing stay front and center.
To manage health and environmental risks, routine lab practices should include dust suppression, efficient cleanup of spills, and proper storage in airtight containers to prevent degradation or exposure. Facilities can improve sustainability through solvent recycling and chemical reclaiming wherever possible, reducing environmental load. Manufacturers and end-users should prioritize sourcing from suppliers with traceable, certified raw materials, since full material disclosure supports both safety and environmental stewardship. Looking ahead, innovations in green chemistry may offer milder benzoylation routes or renewable tartaric acid sources, further reducing the chemical’s environmental and industrial footprint.
Providing high-quality chemical products and logistics solutions for global trade partners.
