What is 1-(2-Fluorobenzyl)-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine-3-carboxamide?

1-(2-Fluorobenzyl)-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine-3-carboxamide belongs to the family of pyrazolopyridine derivatives. Chemists working in pharmaceutical and fine chemical industries often encounter compounds like this for their versatile applications and unique behavior in different environments. The molecular formula stands as C15H11FN4O, where the arrangement of atoms reflects a distinct pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine backbone substituted with a 2-fluorobenzyl group, giving the compound its specific reactive profile. Most research labs report this compound as a solid at room temperature, with the appearance typically ranging from off-white crystalline powder to colorless flakes, governed in part by its purity and method of synthesis. Some manufacturers can refine it to a fine powder or flakes, while higher-end labs might deliver it as needle-like crystals for purity analysis.

Basic Properties and Structure

The unique set of rings in 1-(2-Fluorobenzyl)-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine-3-carboxamide introduces a level of stability that supports its use as a raw material for next-generation research compounds. The molecular weight falls near 282.27 g/mol. A single fluorine atom sits ortho to the benzyl attachment, which not only changes its electronic character but also increases the compound's chemical stability and resistance to certain kinds of degradation. Detailed spectroscopic analysis shows strong aromatic character, with the carboxamide side chain boosting hydrogen bonding potential. Density, typically reported near 1.36 g/cm³ for most batches, stands as an important safety reference, useful for storage and material transfer.

Physical Appearance and Handling

As one of the specialty research chemicals, its physical form — from crystalline to flaked — demands close control of moisture and contaminant exposure. Storing it in tightly sealed glass or HDPE containers reduces chances of hydrolysis or contamination, particularly for scientists needing reliable consistency in analytical or preparative chemistry. Some synthesis routes lead to a product that feels slightly greasy or waxy to the touch, especially if leftover solvents trace inside, but diligent purification yields a dry, free-flowing solid. Routine laboratory practice uses spatulas or glass rods to transfer, with gloves standard to limit ingestion or skin contact, given moderate risks associated with aromatic carboxamides.

Chemical and Hazardous Properties

In safety data sheets, 1-(2-Fluorobenzyl)-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine-3-carboxamide runs under a harmonized System (HS) Code, often sitting within 2933999099. It comes flagged as both harmful and hazardous in certain contexts — both acute and chronic exposures have not been fully mapped, so experienced chemists restrict all handling to fume hoods, Nitrile or PVC gloves, and disposable lab coats. The molecule lacks strong volatility at ambient conditions, but its powder can suspend in air, making dust an inhalation risk in production or weighing rooms. Waste regulations categorize it as a hazardous organic solid, placing it under chemical waste controls at many universities and regulated firms.

Use as a Raw Material and Solutions to Safety Challenges

This carboxamide finds its primary use as an intermediate for medicinal chemistry, such as in lead discovery campaigns or targeted compound libraries. With pyrazolopyridines showing potential as kinase inhibitors and anti-inflammatory agents, this material brings direct value to drug discovery teams and contract research organizations. The chemical structure, with both electron-rich and electron-poor regions, provides an accessible point for further derivatization — fluorine here functions as a strategic substituent, both for physical property tuning and enhancing metabolic stability in vivo. In my own lab experience, strict inventory logging helped avoid cross-contamination, and investing in small-scale powder dispensers cut down on unnecessary exposure. Downstream, engineering controls like localized exhaust, wet-cleaning stations, and dedicated chemical storage coolers all improve compliance and peace of mind during handling.

Molecular Features and Insights

The nature of pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine as a heteroaromatic system sets this molecule apart from common benzene derivatives. The carboxamide function increases polarity and solubility in organic solvents like DMSO or DMF, which gives flexibility for synthetic modification and biological testing. Under routine lab lighting, crystals exhibit slight sheen, and only high-performance chromatographic or NMR analysis confirms purity. Detailed structure-activity relationships in medicinal research show that replacing the 2-fluorobenzyl group shifts how the molecule acts against biological targets, highlighting why precise physical characterization supports real advances in chemical biology. Density measurements connect to reproducible weighing, especially critical in dose-response experiments or formulation studies.

Specification and Industrial Insight

Suppliers aiming at bulk production state purity usually over 98%, often documented by HPLC and melting point analysis, which lies in the 180–190°C range. In regulated markets, strict traceability links every shipment with batch-specific certificates of analysis listing exact density, melting, and impurity profiles. Some factories provide both gram-scale and kilogram-scale lots, adjusting crystal size through controlled cooling or granulation — experience teaches that flake-form materials store better for long periods, while powder provides better dispersibility in reactions. Regular audits by safety engineers and the use of explosion-proof weighing stations serve to meet legal requirements and minimize onsite risk.

Safe Practices and Regulatory Concerns

Chemical safety groups recommend thorough training for any personnel handling this carboxamide, emphasizing recognition of its powder form’s risks. Keeping accurate records on incoming and outgoing quantities, maintaining ready access to safety data and wearing appropriate PPE all cut the likelihood of incident. As regulations tighten for hazardous organic solids, updating emergency procedures and investing in secondary containment or spill kits makes sense. Adhering to environmental standards also calls for careful disposal — all waste, including wash solutions and broken glassware contaminated with even small quantities, joins the hazardous waste stream, destined for chemical incineration under controlled conditions.

Reflections on Material Handling and Application

Daily work with specialty compounds like 1-(2-Fluorobenzyl)-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine-3-carboxamide combines respect for their powerful chemistry with concern for safe stewardship. Lab technicians and researchers prioritize minimizing unnecessary handling and maximizing mechanical transfer over open-air weighing. Educating new staff on the specific hazards tied to fluorinated benzyl groups and robust waste handling — even for small pilot batches — creates a safer, more productive environment. Knowing where to source high-purity raw materials and maintaining transparent supplier relationships typically means fewer delays and smoother scaling from bench to pilot.