(-)-DI-O,O'-p-TOLUYL-L-TARTARIC ACID belongs among the group of organic acids known for their use in resolving racemic mixtures and chiral catalysis. People in chemical labs and large-scale industrial settings know it as a useful resolving agent. Recognizable for its multi-aromatic ring structure, the acid features toluoyl functional groups bonded through oxygen links to an L-tartaric acid backbone. The molecular formula, C20H18O8, shows a high count of oxygen atoms. This highlights the molecule’s tendency to participate in hydrogen bonding and solubility modulation, crucial for a range of chemical processes. The HS Code, typically 291890, categorizes it under carboxylic acids, which not only matters for customs but also for regulatory and logistics workflows.
The acid’s structure starts with the L-tartaric core—a four-carbon skeleton bearing two chiral centers, both crucial for its selectivity and function. Each carboxylic acid group carries a para-toluoyl moiety, so the compound’s physicochemical behavior shifts from what you see in regular tartaric acids. With the molecular formula C20H18O8 and molar mass around 386.35 g/mol, each constituent atom influences the solid's appearance, stability, and even the way it interacts with polar and non-polar solvents. As a pure substance, it often comes as crystalline flakes, but depending on the production method, you might see it as fine powder, compact pearls, or even granulated solid. Usually white to off-white in color, the texture can range from smoothly crystalline to slightly granular. Physical observation under proper light shows mild translucency when viewed as a thin crystal.
This compound loves to form neat crystals if left to cool slowly from solution, often producing well-defined edges on inspection. Density rests near 1.36 g/cm³ at room temperature, a property that aids chemists using separation techniques. The melting point usually ranges from 155°C to 162°C, depending on crystalline purity and possible trace impurities. It dissolves in methanol, ethanol, and acetone; less so in water. As a solid, it resists caking in dry storage but picks up moisture in humid rooms, which means containers must keep the acid isolated from damp air. Packing either in glass jars or lined, airtight polymer bags helps preserve its integrity. In terms of quantity, chemical suppliers ship it by gram, kilogram, or even in multiple-liter jar equivalents, but never as a liquid at room temperature.
Years in chemical work have taught respect for substances that don’t look dangerous but still test patience if mishandled. While (-)-DI-O,O'-p-TOLUYL-L-TARTARIC ACID does not classify among the most dangerous organic acids, people working with it should use gloves, dust masks, and goggles. Respiratory irritation may happen if large amounts of powder become airborne. Accidental ingestion causes digestive tract discomfort and, like many fine organic powders, it may cause sneezing or mild skin irritation. As with all crystalline acids, keeping it away from unwarranted chemical mixes matters most—the acid reacts undesirably with strong bases and sometimes with oxidizing agents. Disposal in lab settings follows regular organic waste streams, but consult regional safety data before disposal. Fire hazard sits low for this compound, but in a heated fire environment, it decomposes to release carbon oxides. Long experience storing white crystalline acids says: label everything, store cool and dry, and never reuse containers without a full wash.
Chiral resolution stands out as the signature use for this acid. Anyone who has synthesized racemic amines or alcohols knows the frustration of separating mirror-image molecules. This acid forms diastereomeric salts with basic compounds, making separation possible by crystallization and simple filtration. Beyond resolution, chemists use this acid as a standard for chiral purity calibration, or to form crystalline complexes needed in asymmetric synthesis. Large fine-chemical producers watch global supply chains to secure batches of this raw material. Due to chiral specificity, material purity directly influences downstream product quality, influencing industries as different as pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty flavors.
Reliable documentation and transparent property data remain essential for any chemical supplier. Over the years, inconsistent labeling, missing HS Codes, and vague property sheets have caused product delays, project bottlenecks, and even regulatory headaches. Better communication between suppliers, freight handlers, and end-users needs to become routine. Data sheets require unambiguous density, melting point, hazard, and molecular formula fields so that even first-time users can make safe and effective choices. Improved monitoring for environmental and occupational health risks serves industry and researchers alike. Investing in closed handling systems, air filtration, and proper waste disposal infrastructure all make long-term sense.
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