(S)-(-)-1-Phenyl-3-chloro-1-propanol belongs to a class of organic chemicals marked by a chiral propanol backbone linked to a phenyl group and a chlorine atom. This compound steps into the spotlight in fine chemical production, pharmaceutical labs, and specialty material development for its role as a raw material or intermediate, often serving as a platform for more complex molecules. Its structure gives it unique reactivity, making it much more than just another building block on the shelf.
The physical form of (S)-(-)-1-Phenyl-3-chloro-1-propanol covers several states, depending on synthesis method and purity level. Sometimes showing up as white or off-white flakes or powder, it occasionally takes on tiny pearls or even a crystalline solid form under certain conditions. Rarely seen as a complete liquid at room temperature, the presence of the -OH group usually keeps it from moving away from its solid state. Its subtle aroma reminds users of many other phenyl-propanol derivatives, but never in an overpowering way. Holding this compound in your hand, the weight and density tell you there's real substance here, not a hollow powder.
With the molecular formula C9H11ClO, (S)-(-)-1-Phenyl-3-chloro-1-propanol features a phenyl ring bonded to a three-carbon chain, where a chlorine atom claims the third carbon and a hydroxyl group sits on the first. Its three-dimensional configuration, specifically the (S)-enantiomer, matters most for those doing stereoselective synthesis. The placement of each atom shapes how this material reacts, interacts, and even how it attracts attention from those in medicinal chemistry.
This chemical typically lands in labs with a purity greater than 98%, as impurities can interfere with downstream reactions. Melting points tend to fall between 40°C and 50°C, allowing for easy handling without specialized temperature control. The density falls just above 1 g/cm³, showing it’s a fairly dense material for such a small molecule. Its solubility profile suggests strong attraction to polar solvents—ethanol, acetone, and sometimes water welcome it, giving process chemists more control over how they want to use or transform it. Heat it, and decomposition products appear, so storing it cool and dry makes practical sense. In the form of flakes, crystals, powder, pearls, or as a finely divided solid, it flows easily for weighing or loading into a reactor.
Real-world experience proves (S)-(-)-1-Phenyl-3-chloro-1-propanol often plays the role of a versatile starting point. Those working on β-blockers or central nervous system agents use derivatives of this molecule for active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) synthesis. The chirality rooted in its structure unlocks access to single-enantiomer products, a crucial point in drug development, especially since right- and left-handed molecules behave differently in living systems. Material manufacturers use its reactivity to attach it to larger frameworks, crossing over into polymer chemistry, adhesives, and even custom resins. The chemistry it offers means researchers can push boundaries with asymmetric synthesis or even probe biological mechanisms in the lab.
Working with chemicals, health and safety always stay in the foreground. (S)-(-)-1-Phenyl-3-chloro-1-propanol requires gloves and goggles to shield from direct skin or eye exposure. This compound can irritate mucous membranes, eyes, or skin, so a working fume hood should be part of any protocol. Spilled powder gets slippery, adding a level of risk that can't be ignored in a busy work area. Chronic handling without attention to respiratory protection can lead to longer-term health effects, so keeping material sealed, labeled, and out of reach when not in use keeps people safe. Emergency showers, spill kits, and personal protective equipment (PPE) help catch most accidents before they start.
Chemical shipping and trading rely on harmonized systems that track each substance across borders. For (S)-(-)-1-Phenyl-3-chloro-1-propanol, the HS Code aligns with specialty organic intermediates, usually falling under 290629 or related categories, depending on the shipment origin and destination. Customs officials use this code to assess import duties, safety requirements, and documentation. Compliance keeps businesses running smoothly, avoiding misclassification or legal pitfalls that can slow down research or manufacturing schedules.
Quality in chemical supply chains means more than a label or certificate of analysis. Real trust builds with robust testing for each lot—melting point checks, optical rotation for chirality confirmation, and purity assessment by HPLC, GC, or NMR. Any deviation from expected values prompts further investigation. Handling bulk forms—flakes, crystals, pearls, powder—means storing them in sealed, moisture-proof containers, away from direct sunlight or heat. Inconsistent storage or improper packaging invites degradation, so quality assurance teams keep a sharp eye on temperature and humidity records. Each container comes with batch numbers, safety data, and hazard warnings so end users can track the journey from supplier to bench.
Improper disposal damages both health and the environment. Systematic collection and disposal by trained professionals follow local environmental protection laws, keeping it away from water sources or soil. Waste solvents containing residues undergo distillation and recovery before hazardous waste incineration or chemical neutralization finishes the job. For those new to handling chemicals, training sessions, clear signage, and updated procedures drive good habits, reducing unexpected exposure or contamination risk. Substitute less-hazardous materials if the purpose allows; otherwise, lean on established safety frameworks to keep working lives long and productive.
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