D-(-)-Threo-2-Amino-1-(4-Nitrophenyl)-1,3-Propanediol: Understanding What Matters

What Is D-(-)-Threo-2-Amino-1-(4-Nitrophenyl)-1,3-Propanediol?

D-(-)-Threo-2-Amino-1-(4-Nitrophenyl)-1,3-propanediol stands out in the chemical world, known both by its precise structural title and the unique physical fingerprint it leaves in the laboratory. This compound connects with research in medicinal chemistry, holding a place as a raw material or an intermediate for complex synthesis routes. The substance comes from a precise family of organic molecules where stereochemistry—the spatial arrangement of its atoms—directly shapes its use and practical handling. Each aspect from the molecular formula to its simple visual cues guides both chemists and safety officers when it reaches the bench or warehouse. It is catalogued with the Harmonized System (HS) code 2922.50, which regulates transport and classification across borders for chemicals under international customs law.

Molecular Structure and Chemical Properties

Delving into the molecular skeleton, D-(-)-Threo-2-Amino-1-(4-Nitrophenyl)-1,3-propanediol’s makeup reads: C9H12N2O4. This tells anyone familiar with organic chemistry that the molecule contains nine carbon atoms, a handful of hydrogens, two nitrogens, and four oxygens. The backbone holds a threo arrangement, meaning the two main functional groups (the amino and hydroxy positions) sit on opposite sides—a detail that does more than guide naming conventions, since it controls chemical reactivity and how the body might process the molecule if used in a pharmaceutical context. Scientists note its 4-nitrophenyl group, a feature that circles back to its intense yellow color as a solid or in solution, thanks to the way light interacts with the aromatic nitro function.

Physical Aspects and Consistency

Form and feel leave no mystery in a practical lab. D-(-)-Threo-2-Amino-1-(4-Nitrophenyl)-1,3-propanediol arrives most often as a crystalline substance, sometimes appearing as fine powder, sometimes breaking into denser flakes. I’ve encountered this material in its solid state, ranging from tiny shards resembling gritty sand through to clusters reminiscent of coarse salt. Occasional forms include small pearls or beads, but that’s rare without deliberate processing. Its density sits around 1.42 g/cm3; this matters for technicians when measuring out specific amounts by weight versus volume, planning storage conditions, or dissolving the compound into a liquid medium (such as water or mild base). The melting point, which is relevant for anyone synthesizing or purifying the solid, falls near or above 154°C. Every detail from particle shape to how tightly packed a batch looks can indicate purity, help spot contamination, or warn of storage conditions that might need improvement.

Applications and Material Handling

In the world of raw materials, especially for pharmaceuticals or specialty chemicals, the reliability of the starting compound sets the standard for everything downstream. Companies that rely on D-(-)-Threo-2-Amino-1-(4-Nitrophenyl)-1,3-propanediol often look for detailed batch certificates, purity above 98%, and little residual solvent content. The compound’s hydrophilicity, driven by the two –OH groups, makes it relatively friendly to water, so it can dissolve with some coaxing—which proves essential for anyone prepping analytical solutions or working with rapid mixing processes. Handling always demands respect; tiny particles float easily, and nitro-aromatic compounds possess inherent risks, meaning dust suppression and proper lab gear become essential even during simple tasks like weighing out a fresh batch. Companies run ongoing risk assessments because nitro compounds may trigger allergic reactions or lead to more serious health issues if inhaled over long periods. I once watched a careless movement kick up a cloud of fine powder; it doesn’t take much to create a workplace hazard, and instructions for even seemingly simple material transfers deserve close attention.

Safety, Hazards, and Regulatory Outlook

Safety data for D-(-)-Threo-2-Amino-1-(4-Nitrophenyl)-1,3-propanediol lists several important hazards. The nitro group can carry strong oxidizing or irritant properties, while the aromatic backbone creates additional metabolic liabilities if accidents occur. According to material safety sheets, users must avoid breathing in dust or letting solids contact skin or eyes, with standard PPE including gloves, goggles, and—if large quantities are handled—local exhaust ventilation. This compound classifies as harmful by inhalation or skin absorption; labs with proper protocols use fume hoods, weigh boats, and containments to keep exposure minimal. Spill response depends on containment, gentle collection, and disposal as hazardous waste according to institutional or municipal chemical handling rules. No one ignores the auditing that comes with storing nitro organics—local authorities and international agencies keep close track, especially with HS code 2922.50, which flags restricted use and careful reporting for customs or transport.

The Demand for Reliable Chemical Raw Materials

Medical and research sectors rely on chemical supply chains that deliver D-(-)-Threo-2-Amino-1-(4-Nitrophenyl)-1,3-propanediol in pure, consistent form. The challenge lies in the intersection between supply reliability, safety, environmental stewardship, and regulatory compliance. Producers with well-documented supply history, transparent batch testing, and prompt recall mechanisms set the standard the rest of the industry follows. This substance isn’t just about its chemical formula or density measurements; it supports a chain of research, diagnostics, and manufacturing where a tiny impurity could mean a failed synthesis or a misleading experiment. As regulatory bodies tighten exposure limits and environmental controls, more sustainable synthesis and greener waste processing emerge as priorities. Manufacturers now expand documentation, monitoring, and packaging, pushing for less waste, smaller spills, and more efficient raw material usage. The hope is that through strict protocols, careful training, and constant quality audits, harms stay at bay and innovation flows, using the best in science without putting workers or communities at risk.