1-Cyclopropyl-6,7-difluoro-1,4-dihydro-8-methoxy-4-oxo-3-quinolinecarboxylic acid stands as a prominent member among synthetic quinolone derivatives, closely related to the backbone structure underpinning modern fluoroquinolone antibiotics. You won’t find this molecule on an everyday chemistry shelf; it carries layers of complexity that demand careful attention, from synthesis to handling. In the world of chemical raw materials, each atom and functional group spells out a storyline—cyclopropyl for rigidity, difluoro for potent activity, methoxy for twist in polarity, and the classic quinoline ring, which keeps its roots firmly in medicinal chemistry. Turn to the molecular structure, and you notice it follows the chemical formula C15H11F2NO4, summing up to a molecular weight hovering near 307.25 g/mol.
This compound packs utility into a dense set of atoms. Its structure includes a fused bicyclic system—the quinolone scaffold—anchored with both fluorine atoms at the 6 and 7 positions, which tweak electron density and influence bioactivity. The cyclopropyl ring gives rigidity, while a methoxy group steps in at position 8, affecting solubility and electronic features. Depending on synthesis conditions and purity, this acid typically comes as a crystalline solid. Color can shift toward white or off-white, though it’s not uncommon to detect a faint yellow tinge with less refined batches. Standard density ranges between 1.4 to 1.6 g/cm³. My time in the lab handling such carboxylic acids tells me that once you get a batch of fine crystal or flake, moisture from the air will try to sneak in. Keeping the powder dry, away from direct sunlight, prevents degradation. Flakes, fine powder, and even pearls all refer to how the crystallized solid forms, which doesn’t change its underlying properties but can make dosing and weighing either simple or unpredictable.
Chemical suppliers stick to strict specifications. Purity tests often exceed 98% by HPLC, and residual solvents fall under global safety guidelines—a tough requirement, but experience shows any shortcut risks both user safety and downstream product reliability. Batch testing confirms appearance, melting point (usually above 230°C), and solubility, most often checked in basic aqueous or organic solvents. For formulation work, whether in research or preclinical application, you notice the difference between a granular solid and a fine powder: one weighs out nicely, the other likes to float everywhere unless handled slow and steady. A keen eye watches for lumps or discoloration—clear signs of excess moisture or early degradation.
This chemical commands respect. Exposure, especially powder inhalation or direct skin contact, can leave technicians with irritation or longer-term allergic reactions. The presence of difluoro and quinolone rings reminds anyone experienced in the lab about possible acute toxicology. Material Safety Data Sheets flag its reactivity—strong acids, bases, and oxidizers should never sit next to it. Like many aromatic acids, this compound stays stable under standard storage conditions, but reckless heat or exposure to sunlight can spark breakdown or color change, marking lost purity. Standard best practice sets this compound in cool, dry spaces, tightly sealed, using glass or HDPE containers whenever possible. Anyone weighing, transferring, or dissolving this material for solution prep needs gloves, aprons, goggles, and a fume hood—not just to avoid acute exposure but to keep dust and accidental splash at bay. I recall early days of careless benchwork resulting in small spills—chalky burns on the skin, odd rashes, or sore throats reminded everyone that mishandling is never worth the cost in a rush.
Global movement of 1-Cyclopropyl-6,7-difluoro-1,4-dihydro-8-methoxy-4-oxo-3-quinolinecarboxylic Acid comes under watchful eyes, largely because of its precursor status to pharmaceuticals and its specialized role in chemical manufacturing. Anyone looking up import or export will run into its HS Code—typically classed under 2933 (heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atom(s) only)—which covers a large class of pharmaceutical raw materials. Shipments get tagged for customs scrutiny, asking for purity, destination, and documentation of end use. Labs and manufacturers know the paperwork drill: anything less and shipments grind to a halt, wasting time and breaking supply chains.
You won’t find this acid in generic household labs because its potential for both benefit and harm runs high. As a precursor to fluoroquinolones, it lines up as a gatekeeper molecule in pharmaceutical synthesis, almost always set aside for skilled chemists and closely monitored industrial processes. Manufacturing errors or impurities slide undetected only in places that cut corners; those with long experience see minor changes in melting point or powder appearance as early warning—signs to quarantine material and trace back problems. Potential solutions for safe management start with better crew training: everyone from purchase to storage, weighing to waste management, must work with up-to-date handling guides and functioning personal protective equipment. Beyond the bench, safer packaging changes—like moisture-barrier liners and tamper-proof seals—cut down risk and extend stability. Waste must meet strict hazardous disposal standards; quinoid structures resist easy breakdown, leaving local environments at risk unless authorities enforce best practices.
Chemical Formula: C15H11F2NO4
Molecular Weight: 307.25 g/mol
Structure: Cyclopropylquinolone, difluoro, methoxy, carboxylic acid
HS Code: 2933 (most regions)
Physical State: Crystalline solid—flake, powder, or pearl
Color: White to yellowish, depending on purity
Density: Approx. 1.4–1.6 g/cm³
Melting Point: Over 230°C (depends on batch/purity)
Solubility: Varies; soluble in strong base, some organics
Safety Hazard: Irritant, potential sensitizer, acute toxicity risk
Hazardous Shipping: Yes; subject to local and international controls
Common Use: Precursor for pharmaceutical synthesis (fluoroquinolones)
