Diisopropyl-D-tartrate is a chiral organic compound, often found in laboratories and manufacturing facilities that focus on chemical synthesis. It comes from tartaric acid and features two isopropyl groups attached to the tartrate backbone, providing unique utility in creating enantiomerically enriched chemicals. The chemical structure for Diisopropyl-D-tartrate highlights its four-carbon skeleton and two carboxyl groups, esterified with isopropyl alcohol. This molecular arrangement gives rise to its notable physical and chemical properties. The molecular formula is C10H18O6, and it weighs in at a molar mass of 234.25 g/mol.
Exploring Diisopropyl-D-tartrate in the laboratory or production setting, the substance can take several forms, depending on conditions and purity. It often shows up as a colorless to pale yellow liquid, but the compound may also be encountered as small flakes, crystalline powders, or even in crystalline solid form under certain temperature settings. Its density hovers near 1.13 g/cm³ at 20°C for the liquid state, making it slightly heavier than water but still manageable in standard glassware or plastic containers. Diisopropyl-D-tartrate doesn’t have a strong odor, which matters for comfort during handling, and it dissolves readily in organic solvents like ethanol, ether, and chloroform, while showing poor solubility in water. Its crystalline or pearlescent forms can be difficult to distinguish at first glance from other esters, but under polarized light in a laboratory, the compound reveals its chiral nature.
At the molecular level, Diisopropyl-D-tartrate stands out for its D-configuration, which sets it apart from racemic or L-tartrate derivatives. Each isopropyl group attaches to the backbone via oxygen, forming an ester bond at each carboxyl end of the tartrate. The structure ensures this compound finds favor among chemists designing enantioselective reactions, especially as a starting material or resolving agent in asymmetric synthesis. Its chiral properties open doors for producing single-enantiomer pharmaceuticals and other fine chemicals. For professionals in this field, the value in using a reliable, enantiomerically-pure material can’t be overstated, particularly as regulatory agencies such as the FDA continue to demand ever-tighter controls on stereochemistry in drug manufacturing.
Businesses trading Diisopropyl-D-tartrate often reference the Harmonized System Code (HS Code) for import/export regulation and customs clearance. As a compound classified under the ester category of carboxylic acids, it often falls under HS Code 2918.19, covering other carboxylic acid esters. Commercial buyers expect technical datasheets detailing purity, optical rotation (typically around +9° to +12° for the D-isomer in ethanol solution), assay levels above 99%, and information on physical states supplied (liquid, powder, flakes, or pearls). Bulk purchases commonly ship in drums or HDPE carboys, with clear labeling on hazard classification and shelf-life requirements to keep product integrity.
In the field, Diisopropyl-D-tartrate works as both a starting material and specialty intermediate. Its most important use shows up in the Sharpless asymmetric dihydroxylation, a key reaction for introducing chirality in complex molecule synthesis. Pharmaceutical companies use the material for making single-enantiomer active compounds, while specialty chemical makers rely on it for flavors, fragrances, and advanced polymers. The chemical’s consistent performance depends on high optical purity and reliability across different batches. Educators teaching organic synthesis use Diisopropyl-D-tartrate as an example in training chemists about enantioselective catalysis, making it a cornerstone in modern organic chemistry education.
Like many organic esters, Diisopropyl-D-tartrate demands respect during use. It is not acutely toxic in small laboratory quantities, but direct contact with skin or eyes may cause mild irritation. Inhalation of vapors should be avoided, especially in confined areas with poor ventilation. Storage practices call for a cool, dry place away from strong oxidizing agents and acids. Factories and laboratories need to maintain chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, and proper ventilation in workspaces. The compound’s combustible nature requires fire safety measures—though not highly flammable, it can burn if exposed to open flame, releasing irritating vapors. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) guidance remains essential for anyone new to handling the product. In case of accidental spills, absorbent materials specifically designed for chemical containment play an important role in mitigating risk, and disposal must meet local hazardous waste regulations.
Today’s chemists continually look for ways to refine the synthesis and purification of Diisopropyl-D-tartrate, aiming for higher yields, fewer byproducts, and greener synthesis routes. One promising direction involves biocatalysis, which may use engineered enzymes for cleaner transformations, minimizing hazardous waste and energy consumption. Reducing the environmental impact ties directly into the global push for sustainable manufacturing, pushing companies to rethink legacy processes with emerging green chemistry principles. Encouraging tight partnerships between academia and industry accelerates these improvements and makes safer, cleaner production more accessible for smaller firms.
Diisopropyl-D-tartrate underpins much of today’s achievements in stereochemistry and fine chemical production, serving a vital role in both research and industrial settings. Those who work with this chemical every day understand the need for rigorous safety protocols, accurate documentation, and continual skill development for new staff members. Given ongoing regulatory changes and public scrutiny of chemical manufacturing, suppliers and users alike benefit from transparent labeling, batch traceability, and third-party quality audits. Looking ahead, advances in synthetic chemistry offer hope for even purer products, made with lower risk and lighter footprints. The commitment to safety, sustainability, and innovation ensures Diisopropyl-D-tartrate remains a trusted material for decades to come.
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