(+)-Dibenzoyl-D-tartaric acid anhydrous stands as an organic chemical compound frequently found in research and manufacturing labs with its distinct crystalline form. The material usually delivers itself as a white to off-white crystalline powder or flakes, sometimes forming solid stones or pearl-like granules, depending on preparation conditions and intended technical use. Recognized by its molecular formula C18H14O8 and CAS number 32634-68-7, this compound carries historical significance in the world of stereochemistry, especially for optical resolution work due to its chiral properties and well-defined structure. It holds the kind of purity and sensory characteristics — such as density (often measured around 1.44 g/cm³ at room temperature) and melting point (about 205–210°C) — that attract pharmaceutical, analytical, and chemical synthesis applications.
Jumping straight into its makeup, (+)-Dibenzoyl-D-tartaric acid anhydrous features a rigid crystalline structure, where molecules line up into an ordered lattice, lending it desirable physical stability and ease for handling in dry environments. Observing it under normal lab lighting, you find it does not exhibit fluorescence or strong odor. Its typical solid and powder forms resist moisture absorption, although not hydrophobic enough to ignore atmospheric humidity over long periods. Because of the dual benzoyl moieties attached through ester bonds to tartaric acid, it resists easy breakdown, especially at room temperature. Upon heating, care becomes necessary — this compound decomposes after its melting range, releasing irritating vapors. In various formulations, users may encounter crystalline flakes, flowing powders, or pressed solid plates, each offering distinctive weighing and solubility properties. While insoluble in nonpolar solvents, it dissolves in alcohol, ether, acetone, and warm water, often forming clear, stable solutions ideal for analytical tests.
Breaking down the molecular structure, the compound arises from natural tartaric acid, where both hydroxyl groups become esterified with benzoyl chloride, creating a molecule that aligns strongly with the classical definitions of chirality. Represented as C18H14O8, it contains two benzene rings fixed through ester bonds to a tartaric backbone, which itself displays two stereogenic centers at the C2 and C3 positions. That gives it the D-configuration, making it optically active and contributing to its main value in stereochemical analysis and chiral pool synthesis. It possesses a molar mass of about 358.30 g/mol, and each molecule stacks in the crystal lattice through hydrogen bonds and aromatic ring interactions, providing its familiar crystalline form.
Chemical suppliers record HS Code 2918300090 for (+)-Dibenzoyl-D-tartaric acid anhydrous under the harmonized tariff schedule’s esters of carboxylic acids classification, a crucial identifier in global trade. Lab-standard materials usually arrive with purities greater than 99%, verified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and melting point checks. Most bottles specify density, moisture content (less than 0.5%), specific rotation ([α]D20 +103° to +107°, c=1, methanol), and indicate absence of hazardous impurities such as heavy metals or aromatic hydrocarbons. Physical handling characteristics, like flow rate for powders, bulk density for flakes, and melting-point range, end up on certification sheets provided by reputable vendors. This information carries significance not only for compliance but for safety, storage, and long-term batch traceability.
Synthetic chemists choose (+)-Dibenzoyl-D-tartaric acid anhydrous for its reliability as a resolving agent in chiral amine and base separations, vital for pharmaceutical precursor purification. The compound works its way into quality control processes for optical isomer detection, research into enantioselectivity, and specialized laboratory-scale material production, where chirality makes or breaks compound efficacy. Despite its general chemical stability, users should handle it as a hazardous material. Inhalation of dust or skin contact can cause irritation, especially for individuals sensitive to benzoate-based substances. Material safety data sheets flag the need for gloves, particle masks, and, in some jurisdictions, goggles during weighing or solution preparation. If a spill occurs, the flakes or powder must be swept up cautiously, avoiding static or breathing in any dust. Because it serves mostly in specialty contexts, authorities recommend storing it away from sources of strong acids, bases, and oxidizing agents, in cool, dry, sealed containers. Waste and cleanup routines follow hazardous chemical protocols, even though its acute toxicity ranks below many laboratory strong acids or bases.
Lab catalogs offer (+)-Dibenzoyl-D-tartaric acid anhydrous in sealed glass or plastic bottles that hold from 5 grams for small-scale work to several kilograms for industrial research settings. Customers usually encounter it as powder for fast dissolution or crystalline flakes for precise weighing. Some suppliers even provide tailored crystal forms or bulk densities for automated feeding in continuous processes. The material draws from natural tartaric acid, itself sourced from grapes and other fruit fermentation byproducts, and purified benzoyl chloride, often manufactured from toluene or benzoic acid. Quality raw materials ensure a reproducible final product, where trace elements or byproducts could disrupt optical purity and lead to issues in downstream applications. The global supply chain for this acid reflects the complex web between agricultural sourcing, industrial synthesis, and high-end laboratory analytics.
People working with this compound have run into concerns about safe disposal and exposure, as benzoate derivatives sometimes provoke allergic reactions in certain individuals. Responsible labs take these risks seriously, emphasizing clear labeling, training, and proper protective gear, especially during weighing and solution mixing. Regulatory agencies, such as the European Chemicals Agency and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, provide guidance on handling, storage, and disposal. The right packaging makes a difference; sealed, moisture-proof containers maintain powder flow and crystal structure, prevent clumping, and reduce airborne particulate risk. For end-users, the best solution always revolves around education, up-to-date data sheets, and proper storage. Ongoing efforts in greener synthesis of both tartaric and benzoyl materials promise to reduce environmental impact further, aligning with strict standards for research chemicals around the globe.
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