(-)-O,O'-Di-p-toluyl-L-tartaric acid comes from tartaric acid, a naturally occurring, well-known organic acid often used in food and chemical processes. L-tartaric acid gets modified by adding p-toluyl groups, which gives this compound unique physical and chemical traits. In the laboratory, chemists prize this derivative for its ability to help separate mirror-image molecules, also known as enantiomers—a critical step in producing medicines where only one enantiomer gives the desired effect.
This compound appears as colorless to white flakes or crystalline powder. Depending on formation, you may spot it in larger, glassy crystals or as fine, sand-like grains—solid, dry, and relatively free-flowing. Some chemical suppliers offer it as small pearls or crystals packed in airtight plastic, keeping moisture and light away. It is never liquid at room temperature. I noticed real utility comes from having it in a stable, solid state; that way, it's easier to measure and store between uses in a chemical lab.
The molecular formula of (-)-O,O'-Di-p-toluyl-L-tartaric acid: C18H18O8. Its structure features a tartaric acid backbone, with each hydroxyl (OH) group connected to a p-toluyl moiety. That means two methylbenzoyl (p-toluyl) groups are attached, and this attachment defines most differences from basic tartaric acid. Its specific molecular weight stands at about 362.33 g/mol. The arrangement shapes everything from solubility in different solvents to crystal form and purity during production.
Lab data puts the density around 1.32 g/cm3, quite typical for this type of aromatic acid derivative. When measuring out by volume or weight for a reaction, that predictability helps, especially on a lab balance where accuracy matters. Specific gravity essentially matches density, since most work happens with solids at room temperature.
Being an acid, (-)-O,O'-Di-p-toluyl-L-tartaric acid reacts with bases, forms salts (tartrates), and can act as a resolving agent for chiral bases or amines. Its chemical strength lies in those p-toluyl attachments—they not only make the molecule less soluble in water but also tweak optical activity, which influences how it turns polarized light. In practical terms, synthetic chemists select it to separate racemic mixtures, especially in drug creation. Sometimes, it's a starting material for other, more complex compounds.
Chemical manufacturers synthesize (-)-O,O'-Di-p-toluyl-L-tartaric acid from L-tartaric acid and p-toluic acid using standard esterification. Purified batches must meet the specification for melting point, optical rotation, and purity. Real-world buyers expect bulk packaging, COA (Certificate of Analysis), and data showing absence of water or chemical impurities. In my experience, strict quality control during raw material procurement leads to consistent results in downstream processes.
Quality batches should have optical rotation values between -138° and -144° (c=1, ethanol), confirming a pure enantiomer. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and melting point checks—typically between 165°C and 168°C—separate premium material from lower grades. Buyers ask for assay values above 99%. Particle size or granulation rarely matters except for specific blending needs, since most applications dissolve the compound during chemical reaction setup.
Customs and suppliers use the HS Code 2918290090 for this product, which links to organic acids and their derivatives. Accurate HS coding smooths out import/export procedures, ensures proper tariff assignment, and prevents shipping delays. Getting it right takes some chemical and logistical know-how, a real-world lesson for companies shipping chemical specialties worldwide.
(-)-O,O'-Di-p-toluyl-L-tartaric acid, while less hazardous than strong mineral acids, can still cause irritation to eyes, skin, and mucous membranes if handled carelessly. No acute toxicity at normal use levels, but good practice means gloves, goggles, and a dust mask, especially when weighing or preparing solutions. Proper ventilation in the lab keeps dust exposure low. Material Safety Data Sheets mark this compound as not flammable and not acutely toxic, but accidental ingestion or contact may require medical attention. Like with many organic substances, avoid releasing it into waterways. Safe disposal routes through chemical waste collection protect the local environment and lab personnel.
Chemical storerooms keep this compound sealed, dry, and away from moisture. Long-term exposure to air or sunlight may degrade purity over time, so refrigerated storage improves longevity for big-scale stocks. In laboratories, sturdy polyethylene containers with screw tops do the job, blocking both light and humidity. Labels show batch number, purity, and hazard class, serving both scientists and safety officers tracking inventory. For easier solution preparation, weighing on a digital balance with a fitted glassine paper ensures accurate transfer with minimal waste or loss.
Working directly with (-)-O,O'-Di-p-toluyl-L-tartaric acid, the main challenges center on cost, sourcing high purity, and disposal. Reliable suppliers with transparent QA systems earn repeat business from chemical and pharmaceutical companies. To lower risks, sourcing teams double-check COAs, regulatory compliance, and long-term storage protocols. In cases where large quantities go unused, recycling and reclamation programs return value to the producer or reduce total waste.
In chemical synthesis and drug development, this compound plays a crucial role. Strict standards help maintain batch-to-batch consistency. Real-world experience shows that safe, careful handling, coupled with secure sourcing and storage, turns a specialty chemical like (-)-O,O'-Di-p-toluyl-L-tartaric acid from just another raw material into a genuinely reliable tool for innovation.
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