D(-)Threo-1-(4-nitrophenyl)-2-amino-1,3-propanediol belongs to a class of organic chemicals carrying both nitrophenyl and amino functionalities. Chemists working in pharmaceutical synthesis and research usually recognize the compound for its chiral center and potential as a key intermediate. It goes by its systematic name but sometimes may pop up in literature with shortened labels. Being a solid at room temperature tells us something right from the start: you won’t deal with a troublesome vapor; handling stays much more predictable at the bench.
The molecular formula for D(-)Threo-1-(4-nitrophenyl)-2-amino-1,3-propanediol is C9H12N2O4. In three dimensions, the molecule positions a nitrophenyl group on one end, an amino group in the middle, and a pair of hydroxyls on a propanediol backbone. Stereochemistry defines its specific activity—D(-)- and threo- indicate a very particular arrangement that affects both reactivity and potential biological interactions. This structural layout also says a lot about how it interacts with solvents and reagents. I learned early that a compound’s 3D structure can quickly change how you think about purity and reactivity; chiral centers, like this one has, demand rigorous attention during both synthesis and testing for consistency.
Solid forms usually show up as flakes, crystalline powder, or sometimes as granular pearls depending on how the compound was dried or crystallized out. D(-)Threo-1-(4-nitrophenyl)-2-amino-1,3-propanediol’s density sits around 1.4–1.6 g/cm³, but this can shift with formulation or impurities. Pure, dry crystals tend to have a pale-yellow hue thanks to the nitro group’s influence on conjugation in the aromatic ring. Powders feel slightly grainy, never slick or waxy. In solution, it dissolves best in polar solvents—think methanol or water—though the presence of hydroxyl groups also means hydrogen bonding will dominate. Years of weighing out and dissolving similar compounds have shown me that even a slightly damp scoop or a warm hand can shift the bulk properties of a powder. Keeping storage dry and cool, in tightly-sealed plastic or glass lined containers, prevents clumps or cake formation.
Production relies on sourcing starting materials like 4-nitrobenzaldehyde and derivatives of threonine, plus standard reagents for amino group introduction and reduction. Multi-step syntheses like these always require reliable raw materials. Plenty of chemists have told stories about entire reaction sequences grinding to a halt because a batch of nitrobenzaldehyde came with trace contamination. So, trusted suppliers, batch tracing, and robust quality controls matter most at this early stage. For process industries or labs, keeping track of all those material inflows directly impacts final yield and cost.
Specifications for D(-)Threo-1-(4-nitrophenyl)-2-amino-1,3-propanediol focus on purity levels, usually not less than 98% as determined by HPLC or GC, chiral purity confirmed by optical rotation, along with melting point typically in the 120-130°C range. Moisture content gets tracked by Karl Fischer titration; anything over 1% raises a red flag. The HS Code for this material falls under 2922.19 for amino-alcohols, but regional customs practices may classify similar compounds differently depending on use or structure. I once spent days sorting shipping headaches because a single molecule had different HS codes in different customs zones, pointing out how critical correct documentation, CAS number, and regulatory review are.
Handling D(-)Threo-1-(4-nitrophenyl)-2-amino-1,3-propanediol requires solid routine, gloves, goggles, and a trusted fume hood. The nitro group tends to give organic compounds a hazardous edge: inhaling fine dust or skin exposure can cause irritation, and chronic contact increases risk of more serious health impacts over time. It’s never wise to assume a molecule poses zero risk just because published papers focus on benefits. Some folks in the lab say the worst accidents start with routine—don’t let familiarity drop your guard. I keep SDS sheets updated and make sure everyone, new or veteran, reviews proper disposal and spill procedures since nitro-aromatic residues should never go in general waste.
Safe storage calls for amber glass bottles to protect the compound from UV, stored at room temperature away from light and moisture. Every time a container gets opened, resealing tight keeps degradation at bay. Packaging sizes can vary, but most labs prefer 10 to 100g vials—bigger volumes risk clumping or exposure mishaps. Waste management means combining discarded solutions into designated organic waste cans, not dumping down the drain, since nitrophenyls add to environmental load and count as hazardous under most chemical regulations.
Real pain points for many users involve consistency of raw materials, harmonizing safety standards in labs or industry, and resolving international shipping headaches due to regulatory confusion. Robust internal tracking and direct supplier relationships counteract some of the uncertainty, alongside regular chemical inventory and safety audits. On safety, in-house training and clear standard operating procedures (SOPs) make mishaps less likely—especially for new team members. For shipping, advocates push for clearer harmonization across customs codes and closer regulatory engagement to cut costs and speed shipments. Experience teaches that solutions often come from better communication—between suppliers, users, and regulators—along with investments in better documentation and training at every step. This is never just technical; it’s about accountability and putting safety before convenience, every day.
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