(R)-2-Trifluoromethyl-2-hydroxypropanoic Acid stands as a specialty chemical, drawing attention for its unique trifluoromethyl group bolted onto a propanoic acid skeleton. With the (R)-configuration, it commands a strong role across pharmaceutical research, organofluorine chemistry, and specialty material sciences. This molecule features a chiral carbon, bridging the rigid world of pure chemistry with the precise needs of enantiomerically pure compounds. From my own experience, handling chemicals with direct fluorinated substituents opens doors to properties like increased metabolic stability and higher lipophilicity, both highly desired in drug design. The profile brings together a sharp mix of physical, chemical, and application-driven characteristics, which I’ll break down further.
The molecule, C4H5F3O3, lines up as a dense, highly polar compound thanks to its three fluorine atoms. On the bench, you often encounter it in either powder form or as solid crystalline flakes, glistening white or slightly off-white. Powder grain can feel silky or slightly granular, depending on preparation and moisture content. Specific gravity typically lands just above 1.4 g/cm3, reflecting the heavy presence of fluorine. At room temperature, purity levels above 98% ensure stability and reproducibility, which matters when you scale processes. Laboratory storage relies on airtight containers to curb moisture uptake, as the acid group draws water from the air, risking clumping or mild liquefaction in humid conditions. Most samples survive years unopened, though any exposure to air and light starts gradual yellowing, hinting at decomposition or mild polymerization.
Every (R)-2-Trifluoromethyl-2-hydroxypropanoic Acid molecule carries a trifluoromethyl (CF3) group attached to a secondary alcohol and a terminal carboxylic acid. Its backbone, CH3CF3CHOHCOOH, roots its reactivity: the CF3 tips the electron cloud, turning the carboxylic acid more acidic than plain lactic or mandelic acid relatives. The combination of a hydroxy group and a chiral center makes it easier for organic chemists to create enantiomerically pure compounds, which matters for everything from medications to fine chemical synthesis. This structural configuration supports rigorous hydrogen bonding, driving its tight solid structure and moderate melting point, commonly between 90-100°C.
A product spec sheet for (R)-2-Trifluoromethyl-2-hydroxypropanoic Acid lists molecular weight at 174.08 g/mol, with strict analysis of residual solvents and non-volatile residues—since trace solvents change downstream reactions. Appearance checks guarantee material comes as solid powder, pearls, or occasionally as crystalline flakes. Solutions in water or polar organic solvents (like methanol or DMSO) demonstrate high solubility, even at greater concentrations, which influences formulation decisions for both research and manufacturing. Large batch runs demand particle size analysis and bulk density checks, since packing and mixing depend on those figures. Certificate of Analysis (COA) often references optical rotation, a simple but effective way to confirm enantiomeric purity, giving buyers peace of mind when ordering.
Customs and international trade recognize the chemical under HS Code 29163900, typically labeled alongside similar organofluorine carboxylic acids. As a raw material, it draws from advanced fluorinated intermediates, with industrial-scale syntheses relying on controlled fluorination and resolution from chiral pools or asymmetric synthesis. Safety concerns arise from its dual identity: the trifluoromethyl group can raise volatility in specific reactions, and the acid function gives it corrosive tendencies. Handling protocols require gloves, goggles, and well-ventilated spaces, as inhalation or ingestion brings risk. Accidental skin or eye exposure causes irritation or mild burns. Regulatory sheets classify it as harmful but not acutely toxic, provided personal protective equipment is used. Disposal as a hazardous waste follows regional rules due to the risk of groundwater contamination, and each shipment carries clear hazard pictograms.
Chemicals like (R)-2-Trifluoromethyl-2-hydroxypropanoic Acid matter because their unique structure enables progress in multiple fields. I’ve seen teams rely on its high reactivity and stability under strong conditions for the preparation of advanced intermediates in pharma and new materials. The trifluoromethyl difference shows up in properties like greater metabolic robustness and altered polarity, allowing compound libraries for drug screening to feature new profiles. Realistically, anyone sourcing or working with this acid watches out for batch-to-batch consistency, since impurities or a wrong enantiomer waste days of work. Lab managers invest in high-purity batches, regular QC, and proper infrastructure for storage, given the risk of slow degradation and dangerous vapors in concentration. Process changes, such as automated filling stations and airlocks, have helped reduce worker exposure and cut down on handling errors. Forward advances may land on greener manufacturing for fluorinated intermediates, using less hazardous feedstocks or recycling spent acids, responding to regulatory and environmental demands. A future goal must center on reduction of waste fluorinated byproducts, a persistent environmental issue for all organofluorine chemistries.
(R)-2-Trifluoromethyl-2-hydroxypropanoic Acid stands firm as a dense, crystalline or powdery solid, tailored by pure fluorine chemistry. Each batch rides on purity, packing, and safe use. Its density, melting range, solvent compatibility, and chemical stability drive its value in synthesis and discovery. All handling relies on diligent respect for its corrosive, mildly hazardous nature, and companies need to stay ahead on clean manufacturing and safe waste strategies as demand continues across pharmaceuticals and new materials research. Anyone in the field will recognize its white powder, strict labeling, and the confident hum of equipment designed to capture every trace of vapor or dust that could otherwise lead to accidental contact or contamination.
