DIMETHYL D-TARTRATE stands out as a specialty chemical widely used in chemical synthesis, pharmaceuticals, and fine chemical production. Recognized by its systematic name, Dimethyl (2R,3R)-2,3-dihydroxybutanedioate, it serves as an organic intermediate, offering unique reactivity and functional versatility for chemists and manufacturers. The chemical’s molecular formula is C6H10O6, a simple yet interesting structure that sits at the core of its characteristics. The substance retains chiral centers, which means the arrangement of atoms creates the D-enantiomer, lending specific optical properties valuable in the synthesis of optically pure compounds. Its CAS Number is 627-91-8 and it falls under the HS Code 2918199090, making customs categorization straightforward for trading and regulatory purposes.
Each molecule of DIMETHYL D-TARTRATE presents a backbone of butanedioic acid, with both carboxyl groups esterified with methanol. This yields a diester with a pair of hydroxyl groups at C2 and C3. The definitive structure, HOCH(CO2Me)CH(CO2Me)OH, enables hydrogen bonding and polarity, giving the material unique solubility and reactivity profiles. The density measures close to 1.37 g/cm³ at standard conditions — a practical detail for those needing precision when measuring raw materials for reactions or scaling production. Even small changes in stereochemistry influence reactivity in chemical syntheses, which is one reason why this compound keeps showing up in chiral catalyst research and drug synthesis.
This substance usually appears as a colorless to off-white crystalline solid, often observed as small flakes, granular powder, or even pearl-like beads depending on the crystallization process used. In my experience handling chemical reagents, such physical forms translate directly into differences in storage and handling. Flakes or granules reduce airborne dust, lowering exposure risk during weighing or transfer. The melting point generally falls in the range of 51–55°C, which allows manipulation without need for elaborate safety cooling, but always calls for ventilation to avoid vapor inhalation during heating. It dissolves well in water, ethanol, and methanol, providing reliable options for preparing solutions at lab and industrial scales. Bulk density and packing factors can change by material form, so knowing whether DIMETHYL D-TARTRATE comes as powder, flakes, or pearls influences logistics for purchasers and warehouse staff.
As a diester of tartaric acid, DIMETHYL D-TARTRATE retains both ester and alcohol functionalities. The dihydroxy pattern means it acts as a bidentate ligand in catalysis, and often finds use as a chiral building block for asymmetric synthesis, particularly in pharmaceuticals like HIV inhibitors and specialty agricultural chemicals. The chemical’s reactivity comes from its sensitive configuration: exposure to strong acids or bases causes hydrolysis, converting it back to tartaric acid and methanol. From my work in organic chemistry, this trait forms the backbone of several protection and deprotection strategies during multi-step synthesis campaigns. Its use as a raw material extends beyond small-scale laboratory applications to kilogram-scale production in process chemistry, where purity and chiral integrity often decide the quality of downstream products.
Manufacturers and chemists look closely at assay purity, which typically reaches above 99% by HPLC or GC standards. Moisture content, residual methanol, and heavy metal traces need attention, because impurities can catalyze degradation or create side products. To safeguard material, DIMETHYL D-TARTRATE comes packed in sealed polyethylene or fluoropolymer bags, often inside fiber drums or metal containers for larger shipments. Those containers protect against moisture and limit oxidation, since the dihydroxy groups can slowly pick up water in humid storerooms. From warehouse to benchtop, consistent labeling with molecular formula (C6H10O6), lot number, and hazard statements aligns with the highest standards for chemical management, supporting traceability in regulated industries.
While DIMETHYL D-TARTRATE poses low acute toxicity under regular conditions, powder handling without adequate ventilation may irritate respiratory tracts and cause discomfort to sensitive individuals. Fact sheets and safety data sheets (SDS) rate it as harmful if ingested in significant quantities, largely due to methanol release during hydrolysis. From my perspective, following strict personal protective equipment (PPE) protocols — gloves, goggles, dust masks — will mitigate risk substantially in both laboratory and industrial settings. Its combustibility falls within the range typical for organic esters, so open flames or high-heat sources require attention. As a compound with decent biodegradability under aerobic conditions, its impact on the environment remains manageable, but effluent streams should always undergo treatment to remove residual organics before discharge. Firms using DIMETHYL D-TARTRATE as a raw material or intermediate need to maintain full compliance with global chemical regulations like REACH, TSCA, or GHS standards, not only for safety but for long-term sustainability.
Scaling up the use of DIMETHYL D-TARTRATE in pharmaceutical and chemical manufacturing demands careful control over enantiomeric purity, moisture, and secondary contaminants. Many process engineers I’ve met stress the importance of validated suppliers — using only batches with full certificates of analysis and traceable documentation. Automation in weighing and dispensing can reduce worker exposure and improve quality. On the regulatory side, labeling shipments with the correct HS Code (2918199090) ensures smoother customs processing and reduces bureaucratic snags, especially for international trade. Implementing secondary containment for spills and investing in on-site chemical recycling make daily operations safer and more sustainable. All these factors combine to make DIMETHYL D-TARTRATE a noteworthy example of how practical chemical development and handling call for not just technical know-how but also operational care and responsibility at every stage.
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