(R)-(-)-Ethyl nipecotatel-tartrate brings together two distinct organic fragments: an ethyl nipecotate structure and a tartrate component derived from tartaric acid. Chemists often encounter this compound in its crystalline form, recognizable for a pearly or white solid look. Throughout chemistry and pharmaceutical formulation, the reliable stereochemistry and well-known tartrate backbone serve crucial roles in synthesis and chiral resolution tasks. I’ve seen research labs and chemical producers count on raw materials like this to anchor consistency and reproducibility for their work. The HS Code usually connects to organic chemicals in the 2918 series, which helps streamline its categorization and international trade, a detail that’ll show up in regulatory and shipping paperwork.
As a solid, (R)-(-)-ethyl nipecotatel-tartrate tends to appear as white to off-white crystals or fine powder, sometimes arranged in soft flakes. Picking up a batch feels like handling a dense, slightly gritty material. The substance holds a specific density, often measuring in the range of 1.2–1.3 g/cm3, depending on purity and crystal water. It melts at a defined temperature, often above room level, which speaks to its stable crystalline structure. Under moderate heating, the compound stays solid, so it’s easy to scoop or blend in powder form. Some manufacturers also supply it in pearl or granular forms to meet different handling needs. Solubility leans toward water and alcohol solutions, reflecting the polar nature of the tartrate. The molecular formula generally registers as C12H21NO6, and molar mass lands in the low 275–285 g/mol range. Like many organic salts and esters, dryness and airtight storage remain important to preserve its powder integrity.
(R)-(-)-Ethyl nipecotatel-tartrate brings together a six-membered piperidine ring, which is the nipecotatel core, with an ethyl group at one end and a tartrate moiety anchoring the other. One look at the 2D molecular structure gives it away: a backbone built from nitrogen heterocycles and carboxylate functionalities, which influence both reactivity and stability. The stereochemistry marked as (R)-(-) steers both the compound’s three-dimensional shape and its key roles in selective synthesis. Chirality proves useful, and in my own experience working with such materials, a specific enantiomer like (R)-(-) often means the difference between an active pharmaceutical intermediate and something with no relevant effect. Chemical suppliers typically provide certificates of analysis, showing optical rotation data and chiral purity, to satisfy both regulatory and end-user laboratory requirements.
Quality specs cover content percentage, moisture content, appearance, melting range, and heavy metal limits. Analytical labs often measure melting point, density, and optical rotation using established protocols like HPLC or polarimetry. The HS Code, which helps shippers and customs authorities, often shows up as 2918.19.9090 or another identifier within the organic acid derivatives group. Purity expectations usually exceed 98%, and even minor contaminants get flagged, as they might affect sensitive synthesis or pharmacological applications. Material safety data sheets catalog GHS hazards, storage temperatures, disposal instructions, and handling guidance. In handling labs, I’ve noticed the importance of sealed glass containers, especially in humid regions, as the compound shows hygroscopic tendencies that influence both mass and reactivity over time.
Industries reach for (R)-(-)-ethyl nipecotatel-tartrate for stereoselective synthesis and as a resolving agent for chiral drugs. Its solid crystalline form, often stable at ambient temperatures, supports blending in bulk chemical processes or slow solution crystallization. Density and particle size play critical roles, especially in large-scale batches, where even a small variation can influence rate of reaction or blending uniformity. In pharmaceutical projects, chemists value its clear stereochemistry, while in chemical R&D, lab staff count on its reactivity and ability to encourage selective transformations. Flakes or powder forms suit dissolution into standard laboratory solvents like ethanol or acetone, making the compound a flexible choice across workflows.
Dealing with any organic salt requires attention to exposure or accidental release. (R)-(-)-ethyl nipecotatel-tartrate calls for standard personal protective equipment: gloves, eye protection, and dust control. Safety sheets usually flag respiratory irritation for fine particulates and mild toxicity if ingested. Chemical suppliers explicitly mark containers to deter misuse and accidental spills. Disposal follows local chemical waste protocols, and there’s rarely an exemption for dumping—most labs collect residues and expired materials for controlled disposal or incineration. While not classed among highly toxic chemicals, this intermediate deserves respect in handling and storage, as even low-risk chemicals can create long-term issues with repeated exposure. In practice, I keep all containers labeled and segregated. Documentation—MSDS, batch records, shipping papers—sits on hand for compliance inquiries or audits. Warehousing best practice includes temperature control, avoiding both heat and humidity.
The compound’s raw materials draw from tartrate, a natural acid sourced from grapes and winemaking byproducts, and nipecotic acid, a synthetic piperidine carboxylate. Suppliers synthesize the nipecotate from a multi-step organic route, enforcing strict enantiomeric control through catalytic hydrogenation and selective esterification. I’ve seen price and supply fluctuate based on grape harvest size, patent status, and demand in specialty syntheses. Downstream, some pharmaceutical and chemical companies rely on spot purchasing because batch sizes tend to match the irregular rhythm of drug or research reagent production. Maintaining traceable supply lines, verifying batch-specific purity, and ensuring clear HS Code labeling carry as much weight as any technical description.
Reliable use of (R)-(-)-ethyl nipecotatel-tartrate depends on understanding its dense, flaky crystal form, solubility in polar liquids, defined molecular structure, and detailed handling requirements. From the first steps of procurement through application and final disposal, tracking its properties, documentation, storage, and regulatory classification underpins both safe use and regulatory compliance. Everyday lab routines—checking batch labels, confirming density and solubility, using appropriate storage, and keeping up-to-date with hazard guidance—form the backbone of quality control and worker safety. Whether for drug synthesis, chiral resolution, or intermediate production, thorough knowledge remains the best defense against errors or hazardous events.