This compound stands out as a complex organic salt formed from the reaction of (+)-nicotine and di-p-toluoyl-d-tartrate. Chemists tap into this salt for both its differentiating chiral properties and practical uses across pharmaceutical and chemical synthesis labs. Structurally, (+)-nicotine brings a clearly defined pyridine ring, joined to the tartrate component, which often acts to separate enantiomers in chemical environments. Each molecule shows an intricate balance, both in terms of charge interaction and steric arrangement. Researchers see value in the highly resolved crystalline forms this salt can produce. Structural diagrams lay out the molecular formula as C10H14N2 for nicotine, while tartrate and toluoyl substituents boost both mass and complexity, giving rise to a larger formula for the combined salt: C40H38N2O10.
Over the counter, the physical material arrives either as solid flakes, fine powder, pearlescent crystals, or dense lumps. In some rare prep labs, dissolved forms in filtered solution make separation more manageable, due to the increased solubility in polar solvents. The color holds close to white or faint cream, though light exposure and air sometimes cause slight yellowing due to oxidation. Cold storage best preserves the smooth crystalline structure, which showcases high density and intricate internal arrangement. Liquid forms stay rare, given the main application remains purification and optical resolution, so most users look for room-temperature stable solids. Density values settle around 1.23 g/cm3, based on the aggregate atomic mass and crystal packing. That puts material weight within easy calculation for both small- and large-scale production batches.
The typical supply chain expects high purity levels, often 98% or greater, verified by HPLC analysis. Moisture content stays below 1%. Residual solvents, especially in solutions, never exceed a trace amount to avoid contamination of downstream products. Melting points range from 99°C to 101°C based on batch and crystal water content. Those strict specifications cater both to chemical engineers and regulatory officers who track each detail from synthesis through storage. Each container needs an HS Code for reliable customs and trade documentation; this substance aligns with HS Code 2939. Thus, international handling and reporting fit established frameworks. Product stewardship emphasizes fresh material, as exposure to high humidity leads to caking or degradation.
Each molecule locks the bi-functional nature of nicotine with the resolution-enhancing effect of the tartrate. Chirality proves central for enantioselective processes—important for pharmaceutical research and material science. Bonds appear sturdy, yet proper storage exercises caution, since this salt dissolves readily in alcohols and water, providing users the means for simple purification or further chemical reaction. Flammability marks another concern; material should reside in tightly sealed containers, away from oxidizers and extreme heat. The slight bitterness of the base compound persists, reminiscent of pure nicotine, though the tartrate reduces volatility. Users working with grams or kilograms of material treat it as a precision chemical building block rather than a bulk commodity.
Safety officers and chemists both recognize the inherent risk linked to nicotine’s toxicology, even when bound in tartrate salt form. Skin or inhalation exposure causes acute symptoms like nausea or dizziness, sometimes far more serious effects if poor lab practices prevail. Safety sheets demand strict PPE—gloves from nitrile, goggles, lab-grade coats—during handling. Ventilated environments limit accidental airborne exposure, and spill protocols involve inert absorbent and immediate waste segregation. Regulatory bodies classify this salt as hazardous, mandating proper labeling and waste management. The raw nicotine derives mainly from tobacco extraction. Tartrate and toluoyl sources come through common organic synthesis or purchase from approved chemical suppliers, all of which stick to tight scrutiny by drug enforcement authorities. Rigorous audits and traceability cut the risk of diversion or contamination, supporting safer workplace culture and product assurance across global laboratories.
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