(S)-2-(Methylamino)-1-propanol hydrochloride stands out in chemical manufacturing, life science research, and specialty raw material supply. Its chemical backbone pulls together a clear, practical identity: the compound features a central propanol chain, methylamino substituent, and a hydrocholoride addition for salt stability. The molecular formula C4H11NO·HCl, with a molecular weight hovering at about 125.6 g/mol, tells you right away this material remains compact and efficient for reactions involving chirality. Labs and manufacturers turn to it for its precise enantiomeric form—different from the racemic or the R-form—when synthesis or biological activity demands a specific configuration. This material serves as a crucial intermediate and raw ingredient. The hydrochloride salt grants it not just enhanced solubility in water but a powerful handle for safe storage, convenient weighing, and reliable dosing, compared to the base form.
The physical appearance of (S)-2-(methylamino)-1-propanol hydrochloride often presents itself as a white crystalline solid, sometimes found as fine powder or tiny flakes, and rarely as pearls. It generally appears dry, yet depending on the environment, can take on a slightly hygroscopic texture. The solid form packs tightly and displays moderate bulk density, roughly around 0.9 to 1.1 g/cm³, though actual measurement may fluctuate based on particle size and storage conditions. Solubility in water is strong due to the ionic nature—the hydrochloride group binds moisture and lets the molecule dissolve easily into clear aqueous solutions for laboratory and industrial needs. Organic solvents like ethanol may take up moderate amounts. Unlike some volatile amines, it does not release strong fumes due to its salt form. Its melting point usually lands between 155°C and 160°C, which gives users a margin of error in purification without thermal decomposition. No significant color, no odor, and good crystal clarity help with simple purity checks.
Structure defines properties. The (S)-enantiomer configuration enables this molecule to fit neatly into chiral environments, such as those found in biological systems. In practice, it means this chemical often influences processes with a level of specificity you don’t get with racemic mixtures. Answers to synthetic pathway questions often start with this exact shape—no swapping, no guessing. The hydrochloride counterion provides chemical steadiness and lessens the volatility you sometimes see in unprotected amines. Though handling remains safe under standard laboratory procedures, the raw material can cause irritation to eyes, skin, or airways in direct contact or if dust floats up. Gloves and goggles help. Accidental ingestion or excessive dust inhalation raises acute toxicity concerns, similar to other small polar amines. Users find the GHS classification as harmful, earning standard hazardous chemical labeling (often coded as 29147000 under the HS code system for customs). Safety data sheets spell out first aid and spill precautions. Unlike worse hazards like cyanide or alkaloids, with smart storage, the risks stay manageable for trained workers.
Industry gives (S)-2-(methylamino)-1-propanol hydrochloride a big role as a raw material for fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and research intermediates. Researchers rely on its chirality to synthesize compounds that must fit biological receptor sites—think of how a left hand only fits a left-handed glove. Medicinal chemistry leans on this intermediate for antidepressants, central nervous system drugs, and metabolic research leads. In specialty manufacturing, the consistent physical form (mostly crystalline solid or powder) streamlines dosing and batching. No sticky oils or volatile gases means no loss during transfer, and exact weights for every batch. Its stable solid state also extends shelf life, giving suppliers more leeway in transit and warehousing. The ability to dissolve it directly in water or compatible solvents keeps productivity high—in automated reactors or human-run glassware. In my own practice in academic labs, the ease of using a reliable, solid salt trumps dealing with unstable free bases or complicated purification steps.
Storing (S)-2-(methylamino)-1-propanol hydrochloride means a tight-lidded container, cool and dry, away from strong oxidizers and incompatible acids or bases. Overexposure to moisture may lead to clumping or slow degradation, but with careful packaging the solid stays dry and flows smoothly. Waste disposal must follow local hazardous chemical guidelines; never pour it down drains or regular trash. Manufacturing waste, if not properly processed, poses moderate risk to aquatic life and ecosystems through the basic amine group, which can stress smaller organisms in municipal water streams. Industrial users control this with catch basins, chemical neutralization, or incineration. Regulatory bodies require accurate material safety profiles and labeling, which keeps the supply chain clear. Experience shows that small-scale lab waste, after neutralization, rarely finds its way to public water or land, assuming compliance with standard procedures.
One challenge with (S)-2-(methylamino)-1-propanol hydrochloride is availability in the exact enantiomeric purity and form needed for critical synthesis. Impurities or residual moisture can shift reaction outcomes. Manufacturers need robust QC—HPLC purity checks, chiral analysis, and detailed Certificates of Analysis—not just for compliance but for accuracy in R&D work. Another issue: small scale users often struggle with tight packaging that resists moisture yet allows easy weighing in high-throughput environments; single-use sachets or vacuum-sealed ampoules can help. Handling dust or accidental powder spills calls for careful technique; gloveboxes or weigh booths capture fugitive particulates well. Education among end-users remains key—chemists and operators must know the difference between this hydrochloride salt and the free amine, especially for substitution in process optimization. Vendors and supply chain partners should invest in transparent documentation, proper labeling, and accessible MSDS information. Efforts to reduce waste—using up raw material in full batches, recycling containers, and following legal disposal minimize environmental impact.
(S)-2-(methylamino)-1-propanol hydrochloride remains a mainstay for users who want chirality, stability, and precision in synthesis and research. Its solid form, coupled with high solubility and manageable safety profile, make it more convenient than other raw materials with similar function. Safety, storage, and handling require respect, but the guidelines from global agencies keep risks low when followed. The ability to identify, specify, and source the exact enantiomeric form helps pharmaceutical and specialty chemical industries deliver innovative products with reliable performance. Investing in robust quality control, safe handling procedures, and responsible waste management turns what might be a tricky raw material into a highly valuable, dependable building block.
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