D-(-)-Tartaric acid diisopropyl ester belongs to a group of chemical compounds recognized for their role in industries from pharmaceuticals to advanced materials. Produced by esterifying tartaric acid with isopropanol, this compound carries the D-(-) stereochemistry, setting it apart from its racemic siblings. It’s not just a chemical with a name; it plays an important part as a chiral auxiliary and intermediate, enabling the production of numerous compounds where stereochemistry determines effectiveness and function. The unique diisopropyl ester group affects solubility, volatility, and interaction with both organic and inorganic reactants, making it useful in synthesis labs and manufacturing plants alike.
Looking at D-(-)-tartaric acid diisopropyl ester up close, you see it takes on a solid, crystalline nature. It usually appears as colorless to off-white flakes or powder, though it sometimes gets processed further into small pearls or a coarse granular form for easier handling. With a molecular weight around 262.28 g/mol and the formula C10H18O6, this compound contains two isopropyl groups joined by ester linkages to the tartaric acid backbone. Each molecule features four carbon atoms forming the dicarboxylic acid core, which ties into two –O–C3H7 (isopropyl) groups. In labs and storage, the ester melts at temperatures roughly between 53°C and 58°C. Its density hovers near 1.1 g/cm³. It’s not much for dissolving in water but blends well with most organic solvents like ethanol, methanol, and chloroform, reflecting its non-polar and polar moieties. In practice, the powder clumps together in humid air, highlighting the need for proper storage containers and climate control.
Industries request high-purity material to get consistent results. Purity runs at a minimum of 98%, with moisture kept well below 0.5%. Bulk shipments may reach customers as large flakes, coarse powder, or microcrystalline solids, depending on handling and downstream needs. As a raw material, it comes in drums or lined bags, with each container carefully labeled to minimize mix-ups—a lesson learned early in chemical handling. HS Code assigned to D-(-)-tartaric acid diisopropyl ester typically falls under 2918.19, aligning with other tartaric acid derivatives and esters. Key identifiers remain the molecular formula (C10H18O6), CAS Number 2217-15-4, and consistent physical specs provided in quality documentation. On bottle labels and material safety data sheets (MSDS), density, melting range, and minimum assay values show up front and center.
Chemistry labs rely on D-(-)-tartaric acid diisopropyl ester for more than making pretty crystals. As a chiral agent, it finds a place as a resolving agent for racemic mixtures, which helps produce pure drug enantiomers essential in pharmaceuticals. It steps up as an intermediate in synthesizing light-sensitive compounds, polymer additives, and fine chemicals. Among other esters, the diisopropyl version offers just the right size and reactivity profile for use in sensitive reactions that cannot tolerate the more basic methyl or ethyl groups. I’ve seen teams choose this compound for pilot plant batches because its melting profile matches purification processes using recrystallization or low-temperature chromatography. In organic synthesis, this ester plays its role cleanly, giving reliable chiral induction with fewer byproducts.
Handling chemicals day to day teaches respect for reactivity and exposure. D-(-)-Tartaric acid diisopropyl ester presents low acute toxicity but still requires care. Its vapors rarely present a risk due to low volatility at ambient temperatures, but dust from powders or flakes should be kept out of eyes and lungs. Skin contact calls for gloves, and users need safety goggles in any operation that might make dust fly. Storage works best in cool, dry conditions, away from heat sources or strong oxidizing chemicals. The substance burns if ignited, with smoke that shouldn’t be breathed. OSHA and local guidelines recommend exhaust hoods for larger handling and closed systems whenever possible. MSDS instructions point out that this ester doesn’t react violently under normal conditions but can break down under strong acid or base, producing tartaric acid and isopropanol. Cleanups go faster using absorbent pads if spills occur, and disposal routes follow hazardous chemical regulations—never just down the drain.
Procurement of D-(-)-tartaric acid diisopropyl ester starts with sourcing natural or synthetic tartaric acid. Industrial fermentation of grapes or chemical synthesis routes provide the base acid, after which isopropanol and a dehydration catalyst do the work of esterification. Reliable suppliers issue certificates of analysis showing every relevant physical and chemical parameter, reducing surprises in the lab or on the plant floor. This reliability proves critical in regulated industries, where a slight impurity causes failed batches or regulatory headaches. The supply chain also keeps an eye on sustainability and traceability, now that consumers and brands care about environmental impacts and labor standards. Mindful sourcing also safeguards against restricted substances sneaking into product streams, upholding safety and regulatory compliance.
D-(-)-tartaric acid diisopropyl ester doesn’t rank among the most hazardous chemicals in a production setting, but safe habits still matter. Risk comes primarily from inhaling dust or accidental ingestion, both easily prevented by training and basic PPE. Processing this compound at scale generates little waste, but leftover product must stay out of soil and water, since breakdown releases tartrates and alcohols that impact aquatic life. Safe disposal follows federal and site-specific hazardous waste protocols to keep waterways clean and air safe to breathe. Long-term safe use depends on continued investment in engineering controls, up-to-date SDS documentation, and hands-on safety drills.
Finding the right chiral agent or chemical intermediate often sets a project’s success or failure. D-(-)-tartaric acid diisopropyl ester fills this niche for researchers and producers seeking reproducible results and strict control over chemical stereochemistry. Its physical stability and clear reactivity pattern blend new technology with decades-old know-how in chemistry. Those handling and using this compound take on responsibilities that run from workplace safety to environmental stewardship, making careful storage, handling, and disposal more than bureaucratic details. D-(-)-tartaric acid diisopropyl ester’s continued role as a materials workhorse comes from solid basic science, attention to regulatory detail, and a long track record of reliability.
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