4-Iodo-1-chloro-2-[[4-[[(tert-butyl)dimethylsilyl]oxy]phenyl]methyl]benzene counts as a specialty organic chemical, designed with precision for research use in medicinal chemistry and synthetic pathways. Its structure brings together several characteristic groups, combining the halide functionality of iodine and chlorine on a benzene ring with a dimethylsilyl-protected hydroxyl on a second phenyl ring. This molecular layout gives the compound a set of unique features—functional handles for cross-coupling or further derivatization, and a bulky silyl ether protecting group that can offer stability under various reaction conditions. Plenty of researchers turn to this category for both method development in synthesis and as an intermediate for more elaborate pharmaceuticals or fine chemicals.
The compound shows up in labs as a solid with a crystalline texture under standard conditions. Often the powder appears off-white to pale yellow, depending on trace impurities or the precise lot. The density lands in the higher range, which fits for an organoiodine species, generally reported between 1.3 and 1.6 g/cm³, though precision measurement pins it closer to 1.45 g/cm³. The melting point generally falls somewhere above room temperature—typically in the range of 70 to 100 degrees Celsius. This physical resistance to melting means that handling and weighing pose few problems, so researchers appreciate the predictability during setup. As a solid, it ships more safely and stores well on laboratory shelves, so it suits environments where stability matters. In solvent, the substance prefers organic media—ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, and THF all dissolve it efficiently, letting chemists work flexibly as their synthetic workflow demands.
Studying the chemical drawing opens up a map of reactivity points. The base unit is a biphenyl system, joined by a methylene bridge, which in itself is a well-known building block in pharmaceutical discovery. One phenyl ring features a chlorine at the 1-position and an iodine at the 4-position, two atoms valued for their utility in aryl halide coupling reactions—catalyzed Suzuki, Sonogashira, Heck and more. Extension branches out at the 2-position via a -CH₂- linker to a para-hydroxyphenyl ring, shielded by a tert-butyl-dimethylsilyl group. That bulky group keeps the phenol oxygen protected from unwanted reactions until it gets revealed at the right step. Chemists depend on silyl ethers in sequence design, allowing for multi-step programs without stumbling over inconvenient side products. The molecular formula reads C21H26ClIOSi—one chlorine, one iodine, and a silicon atom bundled among 21 carbons and a full complement of hydrogens. Its molecular weight stands around 484.9 g/mol, heavier than analogs that lack the halide or silyl components.
For import and export, customs authorities assign 4-Iodo-1-chloro-2-[[4-[[(tert-butyl)dimethylsilyl]oxy]phenyl]methyl]benzene an HS Code related to organic chemicals and their derivatives—typically, codes such as 2931.39, which focuses on compounds with organo-iodine or organo-silicon content. Classifying and documenting the material by this code, safety data, and correct chemical identity is more than paperwork. These standards help streamline cross-border research, prevent trafficking in hazardous substances, and keep the paper trail clean for regulation. The code assists not only in tariffs but in safety audits, shipping, and waste disposal.
On the bench, the substance comes as crystalline flakes or dense powder. Crushing it into finer powder increases surface area for reaction but does not change density or chemical identity. Some manufacturers prefer to press it into small pellets or granules for particular dispensing equipment, but that form rarely shows up outside bulk applications. It does not exist in a true liquid at room temperature, nor does it blend into aqueous solvents except after strong heating or with organic co-solvent assistance. Chemists interested in crystallography, molecular packing, or polymorphism may investigate this compound by growing larger single crystals from slow evaporation of suitable solvents. This slow formation tells much about symmetry and molecular conformation. In larger scale work—say, pharmaceutical development or pilot plant assessment—knowing the physical properties at every state, from powder to larger flakes, prevents handling errors, waste, or hazardous dust exposure.
The synthetic path for this compound relies on properly sourced aryl iodides, chloroarenes, tert-butyl-dimethylsilyl chloride, and coupling agents. Iodine as an atom in organic molecules tends to bump up both reactivity and price—worldwide iodine supplies face regular scrutiny, with key production in Japan and Chile. The silicon-based silyl group requires specialty raw reagents, often imported or produced in tightly controlled facilities. Chemists take care with lot-to-lot consistency, since even tiny impurities in starting materials can show up in high-end applications. The cost structure reflects not only the scarcity of some raw components but also the need for rigorous purification. This attention amplifies with work involving pharmaceuticals or intermediates headed toward that space—regulators need to trace every stage back through the chain of custody, underlining why careful sourcing and process documentation matters.
Like many aromatic reagents, 4-Iodo-1-chloro-2-[[4-[[(tert-butyl)dimethylsilyl]oxy]phenyl]methyl]benzene does not lend itself to careless exposure. Safety data sheets highlight risks typical of organic halides: irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, and long-term hazard profiles that remain under evaluation. The presence of iodine in the molecular structure often signals a need for extra ventilation and protective equipment—the human thyroid gland is highly sensitive to organic and inorganic iodine sources. Silyl ether groups, depending on decomposition, could liberate small amounts of low-molecular weight siloxanes, so laboratory fume hoods pull their weight here. Accidental spills on scales require prompt cleanup, ideally with absorbent pads, as the fine powder can travel on shoes or clothing. Disposal follows protocols for halogenated organic waste, not general lab trash, since waste management companies need to control the entry of possible toxins into water or landfill. Chemical training and proper signage in workspaces keep both employees and the community safe by reducing the risk of accidental exposure.
Risks attached to chemicals like this one mean their distribution stays regulated, especially when destined for pharmaceutical or agricultural research. Potential harm arises not only through direct contact but through possible by-products generated under high heat or UV light. These might include reactive silyl fluorides, phosgene-like substances if used with the wrong reagents, or free halogens in a poorly ventilated room. Beyond immediate hazards, regulatory inspection covers storage—secondary containment, locked cabinets, full labeling—all checked as part of compliance with OSHA, EPA, or local equivalents. Smart labs invest in staff training on hazard pictograms, material transfer, accidental exposure action, and eye wash stations. There’s no shortcut: detailed logbooks documenting every gram received, used, and discarded back up each researcher’s claim to safe and responsible practice.
Hope for improved safety and environmental footprint depends on two main fronts: alternative synthetic pathways and greener protection strategies. Chemists continually test new silyl protecting groups—ones that pop off under milder conditions or release less hazardous by-products. Iodination reactions now use catalytic or selective conditions to slash the volume of waste. Batch traceability has risen to new heights, as digital tracking and barcode systems let companies see supply chains from raw feedstock through chemical reactor, warehouse, and sales desk. Adoption of these tools means faster recall response, stronger quality control, and convergence with green chemistry principles. It’s not only compliance that grows with these changes; trust between manufacturer, scientist, and consumer deepens too. Keeping up with emerging best practices and regulatory science protects innovation from being dragged down by accidental exposure or environmental mishap.
