4-Bromobutyric Acid stands out in organic synthesis labs for its rich reactivity, clear structure, and handy profile among specialty raw materials. Known by its chemical formula C4H7BrO2, this compound brings together a carboxylic acid group and a four-carbon chain capped by a bromine atom. Its molecular composition—carbon, hydrogen, bromine, and oxygen—lays the groundwork for adaptability in chemical industries. Most labs store this compound as a solid, though it also gets shipped in crystalline and powdered forms. Production generally involves controlled bromination of butyric acid or its derivatives, reflecting a deliberate approach to generating reactive intermediates.
Upon inspection, 4-Bromobutyric Acid appears as a white to off-white crystalline solid at room temperature, though variation—to powders, flakes, pearls, or crystals—depends on grinding technique and drying method. Its measured density sits close to 1.666 g/cm3 and the melting point usually falls between 48 °C and 50 °C, illustrating low volatility and mild stability. In purified form, this acid gives off a faint pungent odor. The structural motif features a straight-chain butyric acid backbone with a bromine atom attached to the terminal carbon, influencing both its reactivity and its role in synthetic transformations. Molecular weight measures about 167.01 g/mol.
Specifications for 4-Bromobutyric Acid demand assurance of purity, typically above 98%, since impurities significantly alter chemical behavior in sensitive processes. Solubility data matters; this acid dissolves readily in polar solvents—think water, ethanol, methanol—while remaining only slightly soluble or insoluble in non-polar liquids. Boiling point registers at around 130–135 °C under reduced pressure, supporting safe handling in standard laboratory glassware. Quality control teams check each batch for water content (using Karl Fischer titration) and ash values, ensuring compliance with internal and external standards.
International shippers and importers move 4-Bromobutyric Acid under HS Code 2916399090, where it falls with other halogenated acids, their salts, and esters. This code enables accurate brokerage for customs and taxation across ports. Documentation guides not just valuation, but also safe handling and regulation, due to the chemical's potential to find application in both research and manufacturing.
Researchers find 4-Bromobutyric Acid useful in lab-scale and industrial batches, forming flasks of transparent liquids for solutions or neatly sifted powders and flakes for solid-stock dispensing. As a raw material, this acid supplies the precursor backbone for synthesizing pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and biologically active esters. Many medicinal chemists lean on its reactivity to install the butyric backbone or bromine atom on target drug scaffolds, taking advantage of convenient functional group transformations through nucleophilic substitution or condensation. Its role as an intermediate remains strong in both commodity and specialty sectors, supporting diverse synthetic projects.
Safety ranks high on any discussion of 4-Bromobutyric Acid. The solid and dust pose moderate health risk—irritating eyes, skin, and respiratory tract upon contact. Even seasoned chemists handle the powder in well-ventilated fume hoods, outfitted with nitrile gloves, safety goggles, and lab coats. Spills prompt quick cleanup using inert absorbents to avoid breathing harmful dust or vapors. The Safety Data Sheet warns against accidental ingestion, highlighting symptoms like nausea or disturbance of central nervous system functions. Storage in tightly sealed containers, away from sources of ignition and moisture, increases shelf life and reduces degradation risk.
As a halogenated organic compound, 4-Bromobutyric Acid demands special attention—disposal must align with hazardous waste regulations to prevent water or soil contamination. Local waste management laws often treat brominated acids with higher stringency, encouraging robust chain-of-custody for all waste streams. Manufacturers often support users with documentation on environmental impact, suggesting neutralization procedures or licensed collection services. Each year, updates from regulatory bodies prompt new discussions about persistent organohalogens; responsible producers provide tracking data and transparency for their supply chains, signaling commitment to environmental health.
Application of 4-Bromobutyric Acid as a building block has earned it a permanent spot among chemical inventory shelves. Demand comes not just from academic research, but from industries fabricating flavors, biodegradable additives, or polymers where bromine or butyric linkages play a central part. Testing new catalysts or reaction media often means researchers need a steady supply of this acid, and reliable documentation of batch purity and trace metals. Detailed Certificates of Analysis, covering density, melting point, form, and safety notes, support chemistry teams in delivering reproducible results.
Industry and academia must tackle risks and foster transparency among producers, shippers, and end users. Every chemical bearing a halogen atom faces growing scrutiny for health, safety, and environmental impact. Investing in safer packaging, better labeling, and open data on molecular purity protects workers and the public. When accidents or spills occur, real-time access to hazard data and emergency protocols limits harm and costs. Regulatory shifts often push manufacturers to rethink synthesis, seeking greener pathways that use less hazardous reagents or make use of renewable starting materials. Regular training and audits make a difference, helping teams turn chemical handling into a routine grounded in awareness.
