Dimethyl D-tartrate 99% (99+% enantiomeric excess based on gas-liquid chromatography) stands out as a specialty ester commonly employed in organic synthesis, chiral chemical manufacturing, and as a building block in pharmaceutical and food additive sectors. The enantiomeric purity reaches over 99%, reflecting high selectivity, particularly where chiral intermediates play a crucial role. This molecule arises from the esterification of D-tartaric acid with methanol. Its clear, well-defined configuration is vital in creating certain drugs, flavorings, and fine chemicals, where stereochemistry drives both safety and performance.
The substance typically presents as a solid at room temperature, appearing as white to off-white flakes, crystalline powder, or occasionally as fine pearls, depending on specific manufacturing parameters. Physical form carries meaning—not every batch behaves exactly the same way, but those differences rarely affect core chemical performance. Density ranges from 1.33 to 1.38 g/cm³. The melting point sits close to 52–55°C, supporting stable storage. Solubility in organic solvents like methanol and ethanol generally remains high, but water solubility is limited, which matters when considering waste treatment or process design. Odor remains faint and sweet, which is characteristic for short-chain esters, and the product is stable under normal storage and handling conditions if moisture and strong oxidizing agents are kept away.
DIMETHYL D-TARTRATE holds the molecular formula C6H10O6 and a molar mass of approximately 178.14 g/mol. Its structure features two methyl ester groups attached to the D-tartrate backbone, which dictates the chirality and the unique physical and biological interactions of this compound. This exact stereochemistry determines whether the product meets the expectations for enantiopurity and reactivity, making gas-liquid chromatography for enantiomeric excess indispensable. The CAS number associated with this compound is 611-68-7. Its International Harmonized System (HS) Code, typically used for customs classification, falls under 2918.15. Compound identification depends on a clear spectrum of analytical tools, from nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to infrared (IR) and high-resolution mass spectrometry.
High-grade dimethyl D-tartrate comes with tight specifications: assay by GLC exceeding 99%, moisture content below 0.5%, and only trace levels of related acids or alcohols. Labs and purchasing officers scrutinize these numbers because they connect directly to process yields and finished material purity. The importance of authenticity extends to every drum and sample: optical rotation provides an immediate check on chirality, while packed columns for GLC confirm enantiopurity. Storage containers must block moisture to avoid hydrolysis, and handling in process lines requires compatible materials such as stainless steel and certain plastics to maintain product integrity from supplier to end-use.
Process chemists appreciate the role of pure dimethyl D-tartrate as a starting material for asymmetric synthesis. Its value shows up in the creation of chiral ligands, catalysts, pharmaceutical intermediates, and flavor molecules. Some food ingredients rely on similar chiral esters for authentic taste. A typical synthetic route sources D-tartaric acid from fermentation or wine industry by-products, then methylates it under acid catalysis, taking care to minimize racemization. Reliable sourcing of raw materials and traceability throughout production connect directly to both cost, quality control, and regulatory acceptance. Dimethyl D-tartrate’s synthesis and application illustrate broader lessons in supply chain resilience and chemical stewardship.
Beyond basic measurements, hands-on work with dimethyl D-tartrate means tracking its crystal habit, flow properties in powder form, and compatibility with other ingredients. Moisture attracts rapid hydrolysis to monomethyl tartrate or tartaric acid, a headache in dry-powder blending. That risk demands tightly closed containers, desiccators, and silica gel whenever the solid is exposed. Bulk density, measured at around 0.6 to 0.8 g/cm³, matters for process engineers scaling up batch sizes. The transition to melt or solution taps into its versatility, given consistent purity and free-flowing material. Those handling the product often need to adjust feed rates and blending techniques based on particle size and tendency to agglomerate, especially in humid environments.
The toxicity of DIMETHYL D-TARTRATE remains low compared to many small organic esters, but safe handling policies never go out of fashion. Dust may irritate eyes, respiratory tract, or skin, so goggles, gloves, and dust masks make wise investments. Environmental impact stays slim when spills are contained and effluents managed—accidental discharge into water systems could alter pH or cause mild aquatic toxicity, but breakdown proceeds quickly under aerobic conditions. Storage away from incompatible materials, such as alkalis and strong oxidizers, prevents unwanted side reactions. Never ignore the need for clear safety data sheets (SDS), practical containment, and regular worker training; these common-sense measures build resilience and prevent accidents before they start.
Manufacturers still face hurdles. Maintaining high enantiopurity across large production runs demands strict process control from esterification step to final purification. Small changes in temperature, catalyst activity, or workup procedure might introduce impurities, racemization, or discoloration, knocking material out of specification and triggering expensive rework. Long-term, the chemical industry continues searching for greener methylation methods, aiming for less waste and lower energy consumption while keeping purity and process cost in check. Intellectual property touches some improved synthesis methods, but collaboration and transparency between suppliers, customers, and regulators will help keep progress moving. Waste disposal and process optimization offer further chances to innovate, improve safety, and reduce environmental footprints.
Experience in materials management points to several pathways to improve reliability and sustainability for DIMETHYL D-TARTRATE. Investment in closed, automated handling systems curbs dust generation and cross-contamination risks while boosting worker safety. Working with suppliers who can offer detailed certificates of analysis and transparent supply chain data helps buyers make smarter sourcing decisions. Process chemists continue to develop gentler, more selective methylation processes and better catalysts that work under milder conditions, producing less waste and consuming less energy. Collaborative research with universities and industrial partners could speed up deployment of these greener technologies. Regulators and standards organizations also play a key role: tighter enforcement of purity and traceability requirements keeps bad actors out, strengthens customer confidence, and raises overall industry standards. Widespread digitalization, tracking every drum and batch from raw material to finished product and recycling streamlines, leads to improved material accountability and easier recall management if issues do arise.
Providing high-quality chemical products and logistics solutions for global trade partners.
