(2S,3S)-(+)-Diethyl 2,3-O-Benzylidenetartrate takes shape as a specialty chemical, showing its value especially in the arena of organic synthesis. This compound typically appears as a solid, sometimes described as fine flakes or powder, with a crystalline structure that can range from off-white to beige. Its unique arrangement and clear stereochemistry — marked distinctly by its (2S,3S) configuration — place it high on the list for academic and industrial chemists seeking enantiomerically pure building blocks. This configuration helps drive selectivity in chemical reactions, underpinning applications for chiral auxiliaries or resolving agents.
In looking at the chemical backbone, the diethyl ester side often improves solubility, making this compound more manageable in solution phases. The benzylidene group, connected through the oxygen atoms on the tartrate scaffold, gives not only structural rigidity but also protects functional groups during synthetic steps. The molecular formula sits at C17H18O6. A closer look at its makeup reveals a molecular weight of about 318.32 g/mol — that’s substantial in handling, especially considering scale-up scenarios. Density for this tartrate derivative averages around 1.24 g/cm³, depending on purity and sample form, meaning it feels slightly heavier than typical organic powders. In most labs, it is stored and shipped as a solid, though its ester forms sometimes turn up as viscous oils at higher temperatures.
This chiral tartrate derivative most often arrives as large flakes, fine solid powder, translucent crystals, or in some cases, as pearls for easier weighing or dissolution. No matter the form, it packs tightly, requiring dry, cool storage. Its melting point hovers between 90°C and 100°C, so it handles most room temperature conditions without issue. The compound is only slightly soluble in water, dissolving more freely in polar organic solvents such as methanol, ethanol, or dichloromethane — a trait that helps during purification or reaction workups. Material handling benefits from knowing that (2S,3S)-(+)-Diethyl 2,3-O-benzylidenetartrate doesn’t emit strong fumes, but during scale-up, dust must be controlled to prevent inhalation. As a solid, it travels in sealed containers or glass bottles, labeled to comply with hazardous goods regulations.
With close work, material safety always commands attention. This chemical gets flagged for mild hazard potential, though it does not classify as acutely toxic. Skin or eye contact causes mild irritation. Protective gloves, goggles, and lab coats keep risk at bay. No known carcinogenic effects exist for this molecule, but inhalation of powders and accidental ingestion should be avoided, as with any organic reagent. Emergency protocols line up closely with those for tartrate or other ester derivatives: plenty of ventilation, no open flames, and use of appropriate spill clean-up materials. Material safety data sheets, widely used in chemical supply and by research teams, capture all essential hazard symbols, first-aid guidelines, and storage advisories. For waste disposal, it falls under controlled organic solvent or chemical waste streams, echoing industry and academic laboratory best practices.
For customs and global commerce, products like (2S,3S)-(+)-Diethyl 2,3-O-benzylidenetartrate use an HS Code typically found in the range of 2918.99, referencing esters of orthophthalic acid, though specific sub-classification can shift slightly based on regional interpretations or additional functional groups. This number weighs heavily when sourcing raw materials from international suppliers, ensuring tariffs and taxes are correctly applied and the paperwork lines up with both chemical safety and international trade standards.
In industry, this tartrate derivative bridges the needs of both pharmaceutical synthesis and fine chemical production, all thanks to its high chiral purity and functionalized structure. Raw material quality often sets the ceiling for final product success, translating directly into higher optical purity and better yield during downstream transformations. Chemists benefit from a stable, predictable feedstock with minimal impurities, a real concern when using chiral auxiliaries for asymmetric synthesis or separation. Advances in purification and tighter production control address batch-to-batch variability, ensuring industry users receive a reliable starting material. Research groups and process engineers constantly push for greener routes and safer solvents, working to refine production of tartrate esters without relying on hazardous reagents. Good relationships between manufacturers and end users, shaped by honest communication and clear technical documentation, reduce errors, improve safety, and get more out of every kilo of (2S,3S)-(+)-Diethyl 2,3-O-benzylidenetartrate moved through the supply chain.
Working with such compounds means knowing their properties inside and out, not only at the molecular level but also during long days in a busy lab. The need to balance efficiency and safety feels real on the bench, particularly during scale-up or when troubleshooting an unexpected reaction result. Handling solid chemicals with distinct chiral centers like this one teaches the value of careful material sourcing and transparency from suppliers. Staying up to speed with chemical safety and global regulatory updates helps keep everyone on the right side of policy and practical risk. In the end, solid training blends with technical know-how to ensure such specialty chemicals deliver their promise without cutting corners on safety or quality.
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