(S)-1-Amino-3-chloro-2-propanol hydrochloride stands out as a chiral amino alcohol, widely recognized for its active role as a chemical intermediate. Its chemical formula, C3H9Cl2NO, gives it a unique spot in various industrial and laboratory settings. Coming as a fine white to off-white crystalline solid, this compound's molecular weight clocks in at approximately 146.02 g/mol. Its physical state often leans towards flakes or crystalline powder, making it easy to handle and measure out in consistent quantities. Most folks in chemical production or research settings find its density close to 1.3 g/cm³, which matches up with similar hydrochloride salts.
The structure consists of a propanol skeleton with a chlorine atom replacing the hydrogen at carbon-3 and an amino group at carbon-1. A hydrochloride group stabilizes the molecule, keeping it solid at room temperature and limiting moisture uptake from the air. This stereochemical configuration, labeled as (S), shows up in its effectiveness across chiral synthesis, giving it a real advantage in pharmaceutical development. The presence of both a free amine and a halide in the backbone means that this molecule finds use in building blocks for more complex drug molecules, peptidomimetics, or biochemically active ingredients.
Purity of (S)-1-Amino-3-chloro-2-propanol hydrochloride tends to sit above 98% for most commercial batches, with specific impurities monitored by NMR, TLC, or HPLC techniques. Melting point usually ranges between 175°C and 185°C, a reliable sign for analysts checking batch identity. Its hygroscopic nature calls for tightly sealed storage. The compound dissolves well in water, supporting easy preparation of aqueous working solutions. Unlike bulkier molecules, its crystalline form provides clear, hard grains or fine, dust-like powder, depending on crystal growth during production. Depending on the vendor and synthesis route, it can appear in powder, pearl, or flake forms—each one flowing easily from scoops, which reduces waste during transfer between containers.
Dealing with (S)-1-Amino-3-chloro-2-propanol hydrochloride requires straightforward safety measures, familiar to anyone accustomed to handling basic laboratory chemicals. Inhalation or direct contact can irritate mucous membranes and skin because of its hydrochloride content. Long sleeves, gloves, and splash-proof goggles form the essential protective gear. Those working with larger quantities might run a local exhaust hood to avoid dust inhalation. The material reacts with strong oxidizers and bases, so it should be kept away from those—basic chemical hygiene and dry, isolated storage prevent most problems. Left in open air, it may attract moisture, which can affect weighing accuracy and solution preparation, so folks store it in airtight bottles in cool, dark cabinets.
Working with this hydrochloride means recognizing both its corrosive potential and the low but real risk of environmental harm if released in bulk. Direct release to waterways or soil should be avoided; local disposal regulations often list it as harmful. Accidental spills should be contained and cleaned up by wet wiping or vacuuming with HEPA filters, not swept or blown. Its strong, salty chemical taste and smell mark accidental release clearly. Eyes and respiratory tracts react quickly to short exposures, usually responding well to basic first aid and rinsing with water.
In pharmaceutical research, this compound works as a raw material for synthesizing active pharmaceutical ingredients, including antiviral drugs and enzyme inhibitors. Chemical manufacturers value its chiral purity, since stereochemistry makes a significant difference in drug performance. In my own lab work, the stability of the crystalline hydrochloride often saved time—less concern about batch-to-batch moisture variation, fewer dosing errors, and predictable solubility for reactions. For scale-up, its high melting point lets factories work at ambient temperatures without loss through evaporation or sublimation, something that more volatile supplements can't offer.
The international movement of (S)-1-Amino-3-chloro-2-propanol hydrochloride falls under HS Code 2922, used for amino-alcohols and their derivatives. Importers and users need paperwork that tracks source and intended end use, especially in places with tight precursor control systems. Even for regular users, tracking batches by lot number helps respond quickly to recall alerts or regulatory inquiries.
I always check product certificates for molecular structure confirmation using NMR and chiral HPLC. Big-name suppliers publish these, with technical sheets listing purity, water content, storage temperature, and shelf life. My best experience came from storing this hydrochloride in a low-humidity refrigerator in a tightly capped amber bottle with a moisture absorber; crystals stayed free-flowing, batch performance stayed predictable, and each scoop looked the same from start to finish.
The main issue with this chemical often comes from neglecting storage and handling. Over years of teaching and lab supervision, careless bottle capping or poor glove discipline led to minor spills and small product losses. Teams need to label secondary containers and keep careful records of even small samples. Chemical safety data sheets from reputable sources provide real human-tested advice—it pays to read through them and build a checklist for anyone new to the product. Daily logs of opening dates and usage can keep both labs and factories compliant, and reduce risk of expired material ending up in live reactions.
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