l-Noradrenaline Tartrate: Properties, Structure, and Safe Handling

What is l-Noradrenaline Tartrate?

l-Noradrenaline tartrate, a chemical compound with crucial roles in the pharmaceutical and research industries, stands out due to its unique structure and variety of applications. Recognized for its appearance as a crystalline solid that can sometimes occur in flakes or fine powder, this compound belongs to the class of catecholamines. In daily experience working in laboratory settings, it often looks like delicate off-white crystals, easy to mistake for basic lab salts if not for the clear labeling and storage best practices. Its systematic use as a raw material for medical formulations and biochemical studies underlines its ongoing importance.

Physical and Chemical Properties

This compound comes with the molecular formula C8H11NO3·C4H6O6, merging the active l-noradrenaline base with tartaric acid, which helps stabilize the raw ingredient during storage and synthesis. The density of this solid hovers around 1.6 grams per cubic centimeter, reflecting its tightly packed crystalline structure. In my experience working with samples, it dissolves smoothly in water, forming a clear solution that often shows slight color due to trace oxidation – a sign to adopt airtight storage. As for the melting point, l-noradrenaline tartrate typically melts at temperatures around 155°C. This heat threshold offers a practical clue during purity checks by thermal analysis.

Product Specifications

In the chemical trade and laboratory supply chains, l-noradrenaline tartrate falls under the HS Code 2939.39, which covers natural and synthetic hormones and their derivatives. Lot-to-lot consistency matters since formulation outcomes can shift with variations in specific gravity or purity. Standard industry-grade lots usually report at 98% purity or greater, and impurities below 1% prevent unwanted side reactions or toxicity. Analytical certificates released by suppliers confirm these numbers, making the procurement process more transparent.

Structure and Molecular Information

Looking at the molecular structure, l-noradrenaline tartrate showcases a benzene ring as part of the catechol core, with two hydroxyl groups sitting in ortho positions, a feature that leads to high levels of reactivity and solubility in polar media. To a practicing chemist, this means handling the compound away from strong bases or oxidizing agents to avoid breakdown or hazardous byproducts. The tartrate component, derived from tartaric acid, acts as a chaperone, enhancing solubility in water and improving the stability during storage.

Material Formats: Flakes, Powder, Crystals, and Solutions

l-Noradrenaline tartrate appears most often as fine crystals or powder, but technical grade suppliers occasionally ship coarse flakes or pearl-like granules, which dissolve faster when preparing concentrated solutions in the lab. The solid state brings straightforward handling for scale measurements, though it requires dry conditions since humidity can cause clumping or premature degradation. As a liquid, only freshly prepared aqueous solutions guarantee reliable results, since the catechol backbone is sensitive to air and light. My direct usage of l-noradrenaline tartrate solutions in physiological buffers has shown quick changes in color if kept in open containers, highlighting the practical need for amber vials and immediate application.

Safe Storage and Handling

Working around l-noradrenaline tartrate, it becomes clear that attention to safety guidelines pays off. The powder irritates skin and eyes; direct breathing should always be avoided. Safety data sheets urge use of gloves, lab coats, and protective eyewear. Accidental spillage on bench tops can leave residue, so using disposable weigh boats and cleaning up with water-containing wiping cloths minimizes exposure. Proper labeling matters, not just as a regulatory checkbox, but for immediate hazard recognition during hectic research routines. Unlike household chemicals, this compound doesn't belong, even temporarily, outside controlled environments or near food and drink.

Hazards and Health Considerations

l-Noradrenaline tartrate, despite its therapeutic value in controlled medicine, brings potential health hazards for lab staff and handlers. Direct contact or inhalation could provoke respiratory discomfort or allergic reactions. Handling significant volumes, such as preparing multi-liter solutions for batch processes, multiplies the risk. Disposal routes involve dilution with excess water before waste treatment – sending raw powder or concentrated solutions down the drain risks exceeding safety tolerances for environmental or occupational health limits. Spill kits equipped for powders, along with chemical fume hoods, complete the core safety setup around this raw material.

Trends and Solutions for Improved Safety and Quality

Working with l-noradrenaline tartrate underlines the need for ongoing training around hazardous chemicals, even for the most experienced staff. Manufacturers looking to reduce risk can introduce pre-weighed, single-use packaging to cut down on direct handling. Automated dispensing units, common in modern research facilities, also reduce direct exposure and standardize solution preparation. My background using legacy manual scales gives way to these safer, more precise options. Supply chain improvements, like transparent batch traceability, help users confirm both quality and safety are maintained from the supplier to the laboratory bench. Regular audits and staff refreshers on hazard communication make sure the learning continues throughout the product lifecycle.