L(+)-Tartaric Acid Diiso-Propyl Ester belongs to a class of tartaric acid esters, produced from natural or synthetic tartaric acid. Its chemical identity stands out with the molecular formula C10H18O6 and a molecular weight of 234.24 g/mol. Many labs or manufacturing lines know this substance for its distinct structure: two isopropyl groups joined to the core tartaric acid through esterification. Its systematic name—Diisopropyl 2,3-dihydroxybutanedioate—reflects the backbone of four carbons, two ester groups, and two hydroxy groups, all laid out in the L(+)-configuration that matches natural tartaric acid.
L(+)-Tartaric Acid Diiso-Propyl Ester doesn’t look the same everywhere—it appears in several forms based on conditions. In controlled moisture and temperature, the solid form generally presents as white or off-white crystalline powder, sometimes as small flakes or pearl-like crystals, depending on the purification step. The density varies, floating around 1.18 g/cm3 at 20°C in its crystal state. Under slight heating or in solution, it dissolves easily in methanol, ethanol, chloroform, or ether. This shining clarity in organic solvents gives it a preferred spot in synthesis work or preparative chromatography. While in powder, crystals, or liquid phase, users often notice a sharp, hint of sweetness in its mild odor—a trait tied to the ester bonds. L(+)-Tartaric Acid Diiso-Propyl Ester melts near 39-41°C.
The backbone calls attention to the chiral nature of L(+)-tartaric acid: carbon atoms two and three both carry hydroxyl groups, with both remaining in the S-configuration, giving the structure its biological twist. The two ester-linkages to isopropyl groups round out the molecule, providing flexibility during reactivity and blending well during further chemical modification. The structure’s stereochemistry can influence function, which matters if you’re aiming for chiral resolution or using this material as a raw material for more complex chiral intermediates. The molecular formula, C10H18O6, lines up with the calculated density and expected mass per liter for solution use.
Every shipment, whether powder in drums or a liquid solution, comes with specifications—purity above 98%, water content below 0.5%, optical rotation between +9.0° and +11.0° (20°C, neat). Most global trade moves under the HS Code 2918.19, used for esters of tartaric acid, grouping this material with similar derivatives. Each batch includes certificates showing heavy metal residues under 10ppm, organic impurities below 0.2%, plus methods for drying loss and melting point consistency—because in fine chemicals, reproducibility is everything.
Manufacturers and chemists see L(+)-Tartaric Acid Diiso-Propyl Ester as a trusted raw material for many synthesis chains: it steps in during asymmetric synthesis, pharmaceutical intermediate preparation, and lab-scale chiral separations. Its ability to resolve racemic mixtures owes a lot to the strong molecular chirality built into each molecule. This ester often functions as a ligand for metal-catalyzed reactions, contributing to enantioselective synthesis, or as a modifying agent to change surface chemistry in specialty formulations. In polymers and flavors, the rare combination of solubility and mild odor attracts engineers who demand clean, reactive ingredients with safe profiles.
Most shipments and labs treat L(+)-Tartaric Acid Diiso-Propyl Ester as a non-hazardous chemical, but its presence in powder, liquid, or crystal form can still pose risks if managed carelessly. Fine dust, if airborne, can irritate mucous membranes, so glove and goggles use is standard. Standard chemical hygiene—ventilated workspace, no open flames—limits exposure and keeps workplace safety at the ready. Material safety instructions note that in case of a spill, solid forms sweep up easily, while liquid or solvent solutions wipe up with standard absorbents. It doesn’t count as hazardous for bulk transport, but reaching local environmental thresholds prompts measures for disposal to protect groundwater and air quality. No evidence links this ester to carcinogenic or mutagenic effects; it’s considered harmful only in large, ingested quantities or sensitive individuals exposed to vapors for extended periods.
Years working with chemical intermediates taught me that consistent quality and supply depend on solid relationships with trusted producers. This means knowing the origin of every raw material, insisting on traceable lot numbers, and demanding strict adherence to REACH and GHS guidelines. For L(+)-Tartaric Acid Diiso-Propyl Ester, better transparency about supply chains and rigorous quality control at every production stage can reduce the odds of contamination, ensure predictable density and purity, and help catch safety issues early. Investments in worker training and closed-system handling make a big difference in minimizing hazardous exposure. Eco-friendly disposal routes such as incineration under strict protocols or conversion to biodegradable waste should become the norm to keep the compound from harming local water or soil.
Products like L(+)-Tartaric Acid Diiso-Propyl Ester show how one well-characterized molecule can kick off new possibilities across fine chemical synthesis and research. My experience points to steady improvements in purity, reliability, and sustainable supply as driving forces in the years ahead. If labs and manufacturers work together to share analytical data, refine handling instructions, and focus on end-user safety, the benefits of using this versatile ester expand, with fewer environmental downsides and better outcomes for health and industry. As raw materials for chiral chemicals and specialty compounds go, this ester sets a strong example for future research and responsible industry practice.
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