Understanding 4-Carboxyphenylboronic Acid Propanediol Ester: Structure, Properties, and Applications

What is 4-Carboxyphenylboronic Acid Propanediol Ester?

4-Carboxyphenylboronic Acid Propanediol Ester stands out as a specialty chemical important in research and manufacturing. The structure connects a phenylboronic acid with a propanediol group by ester linkage. This unique arrangement brings functional properties that set it apart from classic boronic acid derivatives or simple diols. The molecular formula C13H15BO6 leads to a material with a specific character and an appealing profile for fine chemistry and advanced material synthesis.

Structure and Physical Form

The crystalline lattice of this ester flows from its aromatic backbone. Crystals range from white to faintly off-white, and occasionally the substance appears as a powder, powdery flakes, or solid pearls depending on purity and processing. In the solid state, crystals might show moderate sheen, a reliable sign of single-phase material. Molecular mass calculates to about 278.07 g/mol. Density clocks in around 1.35 g/cm³, reflecting tightly packed aromatic groups and the propanediol tail. Not all chemical materials achieve this density without sacrificing solubility or process handling. This physical integrity allows it to tolerate moderate pressure in handling and storage. Melting point hovers between 150°C and 155°C, which is typical of aromatic boronic esters, and resists decomposition when kept dry and protected from strong oxidizers.

Chemical Properties and Reactivity

4-Carboxyphenylboronic Acid Propanediol Ester's boronic acid group supports strong affinity for diol and cis-diol compounds like saccharides. This reactivity finds frequent use in coupling reactions, sensors, and advanced material design. The carboxyl group offers handle for further derivatization, whether binding to metal surfaces or forming coordination complexes, giving chemists more flexibility. The propanediol portion boosts solubility in polar organic solvents, including methanol, ethanol, DMSO, and some buffered aqueous systems. Solubility in pure water lags behind less bulky boronic acids, but the ester linkage ensures more stability in moist atmospheres, which benefits large-scale handling.

Product Specifications and HS Code

Manufacturers keeping quality front-of-mind supply 4-Carboxyphenylboronic Acid Propanediol Ester at purities above 98%, aiming for research and fine chemical markets. HS Code for import/export purposes falls under 2931.39, covering other organo-inorganic compounds. Specifications typically include chemical purity (HPLC and NMR confirmation), appearance (crystal, powder, or flakes), moisture content (low, below 0.5% for most batches), and bulk density for efficient shipping. Testing for residual solvents and heavy metals assures compliance with regulatory and industrial standards. Each batch brings a certificate tracking its journey from raw material to finished product.

Applications and Industry Uses

Chemists reach for this ester as a building block in Suzuki coupling reactions and in the creation of boronate-based sensors. Its affinity for saccharides allows the development of glucose sensors, targeting new diagnostics and environmental monitors. In academic settings, the material offers a model system for boronic acid interactions—helping unlock more selective catalysts, polymers, and drug conjugate strategies. The carboxyl group brings even more opportunity, tying this molecule to surfaces or cross-linking agents and expanding into material science and biotechnology.

Safety, Handling, and Environmental Impact

From a safety angle, 4-Carboxyphenylboronic Acid Propanediol Ester requires standard chemical precautions. The powder, dust, or small flakes can irritate skin or respiratory tracts if mishandled. Not classed as acutely toxic or highly hazardous under GHS guidelines, but users should wear gloves, eye protection, and dust masks when opening new containers or weighing samples. Prolonged exposure without ventilation might trigger discomfort. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) outline safe storage: room temperature, minimal humidity, and away from acids, strong bases, or oxidizers. Disposal falls in line with non-halogenated organic materials—solids usually go into chemical waste, small solutions diluted and neutralized before licensed collection. No evidence links this ester to bioaccumulation or direct environmental toxicity, but caution pays off, especially near water sources or plants.

Raw Materials and Manufacturing Considerations

Production starts with 4-carboxyphenylboronic acid sourced from aromatic boronic acids and proceeds through esterification with protected propanediol. The process demands careful handling of moisture and trace metal contamination to assure high yields and purity. Purification by recrystallization or chromatography yields the final product, ready for bottling as flakes, powder, crystals, or sometimes as a concentrated solution, depending on end-user need. The market draws from specialties and commodity raw materials, though upstream disruptions in boronic acid availability might raise costs or extend lead times.

Challenges and Potential Solutions

People working in labs notice storage challenges—minor hydrolysis can reduce shelf life, so improved airtight packaging and desiccants help. Larger-scale synthesis brings up dust management and worker exposure, which calls for local exhaust systems and automation. In countries with tight chemical controls, streamlined customs paperwork tied to the correct HS Code makes a big difference. As regulations on organic boron compounds evolve, suppliers and users benefit from transparent supply chains and clear data on purity, heavy metals, and trace solvents.

Molecular Innovation and Value in Research

The blend of boronic acid, carboxyl group, and propanediol ester in this molecule gives both a challenge and opportunity. Advanced researchers value how these features open up new types of chemical reactions, material assemblies, and biosensor interfaces. Broadening accessibility at reasonable cost while holding onto quality and safety drives the future of this chemical, and as more people turn to sustainable chemistry, this kind of molecule will offer a bridge between discovery and practical industry applications.