D-threo-(-)-2-amino-1-(p-nitrophenyl)-1,3-propanediol marks a key specialty chemical, showing up most often as a solid material. Chemically, it features the molecular formula C9H12N2O4, giving it a molar mass of about 212.20 g/mol. This compound usually appears as colorless, off-white, or very pale yellow crystals, sometimes as flakes or powders depending on how it's processed or stored. With its specific density generally falling between 1.3 and 1.5 g/cm³ at room temperature, the substance behaves as other solid organic compounds do, keeping its structural consistency unless exposed to strong solvents or high heat. The melting point sits in the range of 172-175°C, so in most lab and industrial settings it remains stable and non-volatile. For those who’ve handled nitroaromatic amino alcohols, the faint odor and visual cues help with quick identification, especially when it comes in bulk as a raw material for synthesis of downstream pharmaceuticals or specialty fine chemicals.
The chemical backbone includes an amino group and a nitrophenyl group attached to a propanediol skeleton. This arrangement creates unique reactivity, highly valued in several branches of medical chemistry. Crystallographic analysis reveals a precise spatial arrangement that affects both solubility and bioactivity. As raw material, it’s often specified by purity (typically 98% and above for synthesis), controlled moisture (below 0.5%), and specific rotation, ensuring batch-to-batch consistency for those making finished drugs or fine chemical intermediates. Solid forms dominate, but solution and slurry presentations exist for specific processes. Fine powder grades measure well below 500 microns and help in melting or dissolution processes, while crystalline, pearl, or flake variants provide slower dissolution to control reaction rates. Packaged product often comes in sealed drums or bags, clearly labeled with its HS Code: 2922.41, indicating its classification amid other aromatic amino compounds under international commerce standards.
In routine work, the white flake or powder form doesn’t dust heavily but settles quickly, helping to minimize airborne particles in a lab or production plant. Solubility in water is low, but DMSO or methanol dissolve the solid readily, making stock solution preparation simple for those in research or pilot production. Storage stretches product shelf life if kept dry and in cool conditions — away from direct sunlight or acid vapors. Because it isn’t volatile or acutely reactive at room temperature, standard packaging suffices. Still, material safety data sheets recommend avoiding skin contact due to mild irritant properties. Gloves and goggles do the job without much fuss. Inhalation risk remains minimal, unless someone grinds large batches or creates fine dust in an unventilated space. Those who encounter tinkering with its structure for synthesis should keep neutralizing agents and spill containment measures handy, since decomposing nitroaromatics can sometimes release hazardous byproducts if exposed to heat or strong acids.
Hazard classification puts this chemical in a moderate risk category. Researchers should know that, much like other nitro compounds, prolonged skin exposure or inhalation of fine dust may cause irritation or allergic responses. Ingestion brings a health risk, so storing it with proper hazard-identifying labels helps keep accidental exposures at bay. Combustion, though difficult at ambient temperatures, gives off nitrogen oxides and other toxic gases if a fire breaks out. Proper storage away from oxidizers, acids, or bases prevents both chemical and fire hazards. Immediate washing of any accidental skin contact with soap and water prevents irritation. In the rare event of a larger spill, prompt cleanup with absorbent material followed by incineration as chemical waste complies with environmental and workplace regulations. Good ventilation in workspaces helps further, especially where solutions or powdered forms are routinely handled for pharmaceutical or biotechnical research.
Formulators and chemists value D-threo-(-)-2-amino-1-(p-nitrophenyl)-1,3-propanediol as a building block in the synthesis of several active pharmaceutical ingredients, particularly in the realm of antibiotics and antiviral agents. Specialists in research settings reach for this molecule during chiral separation experiments, structure-activity relationship studies, and as a starting material in asymmetric synthesis. Its accessibility depends on a reliable supply chain for p-nitrobenzaldehyde and threonine — core raw materials underlying its commercial preparation. Any disruption in these base materials sparks production halts down the line. The robust international market relies on its HS Code designation for customs and trade, supporting timely cross-border shipments. Environmental compliance often forms the biggest challenge, since improper disposal or uncontained production runs risk releasing nitroaromatic compounds into water systems, with well-known harmful effects on aquatic life and soil quality. Companies investing in closed-loop production, advanced waste treatment, and green chemistry alternatives do more than just comply with rules — they keep their workforces healthy and protect surrounding communities.
D-threo-(-)-2-amino-1-(p-nitrophenyl)-1,3-propanediol’s molecular structure creates specific chemical behaviors. Each molecule combines a benzene ring substituted with a nitro group at the para position, tethered via a side chain to a three-carbon backbone bearing an amino and two hydroxyl groups. Chirality at the 1 and 2 carbon positions supports its activity in asymmetric synthesis and stereo-selective pharmaceutical reactions. The chemical formula, C9H12N2O4, lays out its stoichiometry, offering a practical handle on calculating doses or reaction quantities for scale-up. Density value, around 1.4 g/cm³, helps set shipping and storage limits, critical for inventory and hazard management in production plants. The compound’s crystalline nature gives it stability and resistance to gradual degradation during storage, making inventory cost-effective for large buyers. Handling instructions don’t stray far from ordinary chemical hygiene — closed systems for powder transfer, personal protection for skin and eyes, and containment for accidental spills. In practice, companies and research labs that keep clear labeling, proper training, and standard equipment in place rarely experience accidents or environmental release events, showing that up-to-date safety culture always pays off.
Manufacturers and users who look after both employee health and environmental safety take several practical steps. First, engineering controls like localized extraction systems or fume hoods control exposure and help meet workplace regulations. Training new staff with hands-on safety procedures reduces the chance of exposure to hazardous dust or chemical spills. Waste management grows critical; facilities that capture and safely treat residues or spent solvent mixtures avoid contaminating external land, air, or waterways. In settings lacking advanced waste treatment, outsourcing waste to certified third-party handlers closes the loop. Tracking inventory with batch tracing lets users identify sources of contamination or product failures quickly. Moving toward greener chemistry alternatives — such as designing new pathways to the compound using gentler reagents or recyclable solvents — reflects the industry’s push to lower both hazardous waste and energy use, in line with more rigorous environmental mandates spreading across the globe.
Working hands-on with D-threo-(-)-2-amino-1-(p-nitrophenyl)-1,3-propanediol for more than a decade, I can say a robust safety culture and clear communication set apart the teams that handle this chemical safely and efficiently from those that face frequent mishaps. Knowing what’s in each drum or bag and respecting both the chemical’s utility and its hazards often comes down to properly maintained data, well-reviewed safety sheets, and a willingness to invest in up-to-date safety training. When colleagues understand how the compound behaves, accidents drop, productivity rises, and compliance headaches fade. Facilities support that with well-marked storage and responsible waste practices. The broader market benefits too: by making sure this cornerstone chemical remains widely available, the pharmaceutical industry and specialty chemical makers can continue innovating with confidence, grounded in the solid, real-world knowledge that safety and science move forward together.
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