Ethyl 4-Bromopentanoate stands out as a specialized organic compound, playing a significant role as a raw material in both laboratory synthesis and various chemical manufacturing sectors. In my own experience working across chemical supply and technical support, requests for this compound most often stem from its niche applications in synthesizing pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and advanced organic intermediates. Guided by its distinct combination of ethyl ester and bromoalkane features, this product figures into a surprising variety of reaction pathways.
With a unique arrangement, Ethyl 4-Bromopentanoate carries the molecular formula C7H13BrO2. Each molecule contains a five-carbon backbone, supplemented by an ethyl ester at one terminus and a bromine atom at the fourth carbon. The presence of bromine creates opportunities for functional group manipulations, which often motivates custom syntheses in research labs and industry. Structurally, the molecule presents as a clear example of a bromo carboxylic ester, which brings precise reactivity and selectivity to transformations, especially in stepwise pharmaceutical manufacturing.
In terms of material appearance, Ethyl 4-Bromopentanoate typically arrives as a colorless to pale yellow liquid. From pouring small samples during analytical runs, I’ve noticed its oily consistency, unmistakable even to the touch with a smooth, low-viscosity flow reminiscent of other low-molecular-weight esters. The density generally falls in the region of 1.2 g/cm3, somewhat higher than standard esters due to the halogen contribution, which is immediately evident when filling graduated cylinders. Its boiling point tends to reach around 105-110°C at lower pressures, suggesting care during distillation and storage. Odor hints at a faint, fruity ester smell, though chemical-grade product necessitates fume hoods or proper ventilation given volatility.
Raw Ethyl 4-Bromopentanoate almost always comes as a liquid, rather than solid, flakes, pearls, or powders. Handling the product requires standard chemical precautions: standard HDPE bottles, amber glass containers, and, for scale-up or transport, steel drums with robust seals. Bulk shipment or solution dilution can change its handling characteristics slightly, but most users will interact with neat liquid. I’ve seen researchers favor smaller 1-liter, 5-liter, and 25-liter containers for easy transferability between bench and pilot plant environments, while larger manufacturers move toward 200-liter drums or intermediate bulk containers.
Quality standards in the chemical field demand high purity, especially for intermediates like Ethyl 4-Bromopentanoate. Producers specify assay percentages above 98%, with lower levels of water content and minimal byproduct inclusion. In my support role, purity calls often focus on trace halides, ensuring the ester doesn't contain excess free bromide or halogenated side-products, which might skew downstream reactions. Certificates of analysis typically list density, refractive index, and spectral confirmations, giving purchasing chemists strong confidence in batch consistency.
Shipments of Ethyl 4-Bromopentanoate fall under harmonized tariff schedule (HS Code) 2915.90, which covers carboxylic acid esters with halogen substituents not specified elsewhere. This classification impacts how import duties accrue and how the logistics team completes documentation. In my work supporting regulatory submissions, correct HS code assignment speeds customs clearance and helps avoid delays—vital for both customers operating under tight deadlines and compliance teams ensuring transparency.
Handling Ethyl 4-Bromopentanoate safely requires familiarity with both ester reactivity and halogenated organics. It often carries GHS hazard statements—harmful on inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion. In my time overseeing warehouse training, gloves, goggles, and lab coats became the baseline, always accompanied by MSDS reviews for new hires. The product can irritate eyes and mucous membranes, and the volatility means storage away from open flames or spark sources. Ventilated spaces protect workers, and spill containment plans cover both liquid absorption and runoff control.
Chemists rely on Ethyl 4-Bromopentanoate for its utility in constructing more complex molecules. In manufacturing, it works as a key building block—effective in introducing the bromo group at a specific site, priming the molecule for substitution, reduction, or coupling reactions. Its controlled reactivity and ester group can be harnessed to tweak solubility or enable subsequent hydrolysis steps, which allows for further derivatization. Across pharmaceutical routes, its use allows for the streamlined insertion of functionality, saving time and resources in multi-step syntheses. In my experience, users appreciate the ability to move quickly from small milligram trials to multi-kilo production, provided product remains consistent. In agrochemical and specialty applications, this starting material supports the creation of advanced intermediates needed for new actives—an ongoing driver for crop science and protection chemistry.
