L-di-p-Toluyltartaric acid belongs to the group of tartaric acid derivatives that show unique selectivity in optical resolution applications, particularly in separating racemic bases. This compound often appears as a white to slightly off-white crystalline substance, sometimes presenting as flakes or fine powder. You can spot its solid form in labs and companies involved in chiral chemistry or in the production of enantiomerically pure pharmaceuticals. Its origins trace back to toluene modifications, building on the well-known tartaric acid backbone by attaching p-toluyl groups to each side, enhancing its resolving power.
The molecular formula of L-di-p-Toluyltartaric acid stands as C18H18O8, granting it a molecular weight that reaches approximately 362.33 g/mol. Looking at the structure, two p-toluyl groups are anchored to each carboxyl group on the tartaric acid skeleton, which increases the hydrophobic character. Such structural details mean the compound can develop crystalline forms that nurture its performance in solid-phase resolutions or as a precursor in specialty syntheses. You will find its chemical identity under the HS Code 2918199090, often referred to by chemists and importers alike.
L-di-p-Toluyltartaric acid can be delivered as solid, powder, flakes, or even crystalline pearls depending on the supply route and the needs of the customer. The pure solid appears stable at room temperature. The crystalline structure helps in measuring and mixing in analytical procedures or in scaling up reactions that demand accuracy and clear phase boundaries. The density of this acid ranges between 1.4 and 1.5 g/cm³, supporting easy handling with lab scoops or process-scale augers. While practically insoluble in water, it dissolves well in alcohols or acetone, which eases preparation of solutions for precise dosing. Its melting point usually falls in the ballpark of 177–179°C, so regular storage away from heat suffices to keep it intact.
Applications of L-di-p-Toluyltartaric acid revolve around its use as a resolving agent, especially for separating bases into their optical isomers—key for pharmaceutical and fine chemical manufacturing. Laboratories with a focus on chiral purity or contract research organizations keep this material on hand for both method development and product-scale reactions. You can see its influence stretch from early-stage discovery through production, as chiral building blocks need to reach purity benchmarks before approval. L-di-p-Toluyltartaric acid also acts as a benchmarking compound, helping labs check calibration or validate resolution procedures used in high-performance liquid chromatography and capillary electrophoresis. For companies seeking high-value raw materials with proven selectivity, it offers a route toward better margins and regulatory confidence.
Handling L-di-p-Toluyltartaric acid means staying conscious of chemical safety. While not classified as extremely hazardous, exposure to fine dust can irritate eyes, skin, and respiratory passages. Proper protective gear—gloves, goggles, and a lab coat—goes a long way to keeping people safe. This chemical should never be inhaled or ingested, and safety data sheets always advise working in well-ventilated spaces. If a spill happens, sweeping up and neutralizing in an appropriate waste bin keeps the area clear. Legal handling and storage demand keeping the compound sealed, dry, and out of direct sunlight, far from incompatible materials like strong acids or oxidizers. When the job wraps up, washing hands and cleaning surfaces helps maintain a secure workspace.
During a few months in a pharmaceutical research group, we relied heavily on L-di-p-Toluyltartaric acid to split racemic amines and pioneer enantiopure intermediates. Handling the crystalline powder required weighing quickly and storing any excess in moisture-proof containers, as picking up even a little environmental humidity could lead to clumping and slow down our workflow. I learned to respect the density and texture—fine enough to float in the air if you moved too fast, yet stable enough so a pack of it seldom shifted in storage. The first time measuring out a larger volume for a scaled-up batch, seeing the flakes glide into solvent and transform into a clear solution struck me with just how practical physical properties turn out to be in daily lab life.
Quality in L-di-p-Toluyltartaric acid comes down to purity testing and supply chain integrity. You want the certificate of analysis to show low residual solvents and impurities, especially since pharmacopoeial specifications keep tightening around chiral substances. Working with reputable suppliers makes a difference, since a batch that lacks consistency in flake size, density, or crystal form often leads to slow dissolving or even failed batch analytics. Seeking raw materials with thorough traceability reduces the risk of contamination and grants smoother audits, which means teams spend more time progressing projects instead of remedying supplier issues. Laboratories working toward regulatory submission or who must manage recurring internal quality reviews often request samples from several vendors before settling on a trusted source.
Storing L-di-p-Toluyltartaric acid beside other sensitive chemicals sometimes leads to cross-contamination, especially in labs with rotating staff or limited storage. Assigning set, ventilated shelves for acids and labeling clearly solves half the problem, while training newer team members helps curb carelessness. Perfecting the balance between ordering enough supply and not overshooting storage capacity requires careful recordkeeping, especially as stock could degrade over the long term if left exposed. Addressing static cling of crystalline powder means investing in anti-static utensils or filtered dispensing funnels. To manage disposal responsibly, neutralizing then collecting all waste under local hazardous regulations keeps teams in line with compliance and environmental stewardship.
L-di-p-Toluyltartaric acid stands as a workhorse for optical resolution and chiral chemistry, bridging the gap between specialty research and real-world application. Its density, molecular formula, crystal habit, and handling requirements shape its place in the toolbox of anyone serious about enantiopure chemical production or analytical method development. Meeting safety, supply, and purity challenges head-on ensures this raw material delivers consistent results batch after batch, whether you’re working at the bench or scaling up for commercial needs. Paying attention to these gritty details helps industries thrive and scientists push the boundaries of what’s possible.
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