People working with specialty chemicals run into (R)-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol when they wander into fine chemical synthesis, chirality applications, or pharmaceutical intermediates. Known by its preferred IUPAC name and found under HS Code 29053990, this organic compound carries the molecular formula C9H12O2. As the 'R' stereoisomer, it gives a nudge in reactions where stereochemistry shapes the outcome, like in asymmetric synthesis or drug development pipelines, where precise 3D orientation often matters more than simple composition. This chemical sticks out in the crowd for several reasons, and not just because of its clean, chiral backbone.
(R)-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol is built from a propanediol chain decorated with a phenyl ring in the 'R' configuration. The structure features a benzene ring connected to a chain carrying two hydroxyl groups on carbon atoms one and three. This orientation matters to chemists and anyone thinking about how molecules interact in three-dimensional space. The compound brings a molecular weight of 152.19 g/mol to the table. You notice this when the substance is measured out for formulation or blended with reactants in benchtop synthesis. With a density around 1.131 g/cm³ at 20°C, it does not surprise anybody who routinely handles similar diols—measuring out dense, viscous solids reminds me just how much impact a single aromatic ring can make on weight and flow.
On the workbench, (R)-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol appears as a crystalline solid, flake, or pearly white powder. Its solid state is a clear sign that it stores well at ambient temperatures, avoiding the volatility headaches that come from liquid organics or the trickiness of hydroscopic compounds. Rarely does it come in a liquid state under standard storage conditions. The pearly sheen of the flakes makes it visually easy to distinguish from less refined diols, a detail I ended up appreciating during long sorting sessions. Touching the bulk form always called for gloves; the powder feels slick and dense, with little dust unless ground very fine.
Labs and factories open to technical documentation want the numbers straight: (R)-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol melts in the 66–71°C range, a practical window for most synthetic setups. Solubility demonstrates moderate polarity—soluble in water at elevated temperatures and readily blending into ethanol, methanol, or acetone. This property helps it serve as a building block, rather than a bystander, in the making of optically active compounds, chiral auxiliaries, and specialized resin systems. The low volatility reduces loss during heating, cutting back on vapor management headaches on the processing line. The compound is sometimes dissolved as a solution to streamline dosing in highly specialized synthesis steps; regular glassware works fine, with nothing special needed for storage beyond clean, airtight containers.
Safety labeling on (R)-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol flags it as a chemical that requires attention, not panic. Acute toxicity ranks low compared to stronger industrial chemicals, but direct exposure—especially as dust or fine powder—calls for protective gloves and goggles. Spills feel sticky, and a fast sweep-up keeps benches clean and hands free of lingering film. Inhalation risks remain mild, though prudent labs run basic local exhaust when weighing or charging vessels. If you ever got a drop on skin, quick soap and water sufficed. Harmful effects from chronic exposure have not cropped up in my work, but data sheets still echo the standard refrain: avoid unnecessary contact and keep in chemical-grade containers labeled with clear hazard designations. Waste disposal follows standard organic chemical rules, not as hazardous waste by default but not as plain trash, either.
As a raw material, (R)-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol rarely stands alone. Its best uses come out in forming chiral intermediates for active pharmaceutical ingredients, flavor and fragrance compounds, and some custom polymers. It builds molecular complexity into drugs that need exact handedness for biological activity. Experience shows that sourcing at scale can be a logistical hurdle, as the stereospecific ‘R’ form takes more effort to produce than racemic blends or achiral relatives. The cost reflects that, so value always comes from applications where the chirality cannot be substituted away. The presence of both aromatic and diol functional groups in one molecule lets formulators reach for new physical properties in end-use products—be it durability, clean melting ranges, or targeted reactivity. Every batch arriving at the dock draws an automatic lab check to confirm optical rotation and purity, because downstream customers in pharma and fine chemicals are relentless about molecular fidelity.
Questions about hazardous traits follow any chemical used at moderate volume. (R)-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol does not rank among the most dangerous, but bulk users keep an eye out for spills and accidental releases, especially near water sources. The compound is slow to break down in the environment, like most phenyl-bearing diols, so responsible handling from start to finish matters—a lesson hammered in by plenty of regulatory audits and environmental reviews. Proper labeling, secondary containment, and strict inventory management all play a role in keeping it from slipping outside plant walls. Fire risks stay minimal unless exposed to strong oxidizers or intense heat, and standard firefighting gear is enough if something goes wrong. Chemical waste management for used or expired batches involves solvent reclamation or controlled incineration, never landfill.
End-users want (R)-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol at high purity, typically better than 98%, with low contamination from other stereoisomers. Suppliers publish certificates showing melting point, density, residual solvent, and optical rotation. Custom specifications sometimes appear for end users pushing the limits of chiral synthesis, and these require tight process controls on the supplier’s side. For anyone struggling with supply disruptions or purity drift, working directly with qualified labs to verify each shipment remains the main fix. Documentation, including lot numbers, hazard sheets, and analysis certificates, forms the backbone of each transaction. The demand for traceability, particularly in pharmaceutical supply chains, has ramped up, with digital tracking tools easing the paperwork burden and helping spot issues fast.
Dealing with (R)-Phenyl-1,3-Propanediol in practice has shown that clear operating procedures backed by frequent worker training keep everyone safe and efficient. On-site spill kits, proper ventilation, and regular audits by environmental health experts all help reduce risks. For transportation, certified carriers experienced in organics handle shipping, separating this chemical from oxidizers or acids. Storage away from direct sunlight and moisture stops clumping or degradation, and periodic re-testing ensures product integrity. Some facilities have adopted closed-system dispensers for powders, which really cuts down on exposure and loss.
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