Ethyl 4-Iodobutyrate comes up often in organic chemistry labs thanks to its versatile role in synthesis. This compound brings together an ethyl group and a four-carbon butyrate skeleton, finished off with iodine at one end of the chain. Chemists tend to keep it on hand for constructing more complex molecules. Based on my experience in the lab, clear identification and safe use matter with every batch of this raw material. The general template for its chemical formula stands as C6H11IO2, showing off both the iodine and ester groups in its backbone. This isn't the sort of material that stays on the sidelines; it usually steps in as an alkylating or chain-extending agent where the iodine atom makes a clean leaving group in many reactions.
Ethyl 4-Iodobutyrate usually appears as a clear to pale yellow liquid. Pour it from a bottle and you'll notice a rather distinctive odor typical for alkyl iodides—something sharp and faintly sweet. In terms of density, it holds ground around 1.7 g/cm³, noticeably heavier than water. The boiling point hovers near 120-125°C at reduced pressure; in open air, the actual figure can shift a bit due to the heavy iodine. Don't expect it to flake or crystallize like some solid esters—at room temperature, it pours with steady viscosity. In lower temperature storage, you may see some thickening, but warming to ambient usually brings it back to its usual liquid state. Solubility in water ranks low, almost negligible, so separation becomes straightforward after syntheses. It dissolves readily in organic solvents like ether, DCM, or toluene. What stands out in practical handling is its readiness to form clean solutions at precise concentrations, which matters during scale-ups or when blending with other chemicals.
Looking at the molecular structure, Ethyl 4-Iodobutyrate pinpoints its reactivity around the terminal iodine atom. The basic skeleton, with an ethyl ester at one end and an iodo-substituted butyrate chain, measures up as a bit larger than related methyl or propyl esters. That extra length gives it a different profile in reactions, such as improved selectivity or better performance in certain chain-extension procedures. Seasoned lab workers appreciate that the C–I bond offers a reliable leaving group in SN2 reactions, making this material a handy tool for constructing carbon chains. Nucleophiles attack the terminal carbon, expelling the iodine and setting up new bonds without extra steps. Compared to shorter or less reactive iodides, Ethyl 4-Iodobutyrate gives more room to maneuver both in solution and in downstream isolation.
Purity levels usually sit at a minimum of 97%, driven home by stringent gas chromatography analysis. Impurities shift the boiling point, muddy the product’s color, or produce stray byproducts during synthesis, so chemical suppliers and careful labs monitor every batch. With this compound, that bottle needs tight closure and cool, dry storage to prevent unwanted hydrolysis or decomposition—iodine on the chain does make for some instability in the wrong hands. The hazard classification, based on the globally harmonized system, puts it into categories for skin and eye irritation, and marks it as potentially harmful if inhaled or ingested. Anyone handling Ethyl 4-Iodobutyrate benefits from using nitrile gloves and goggles, not just in case of spills but also due to its volatility and tendency to form noxious vapors in confined spaces. Always work in a fume hood and double-bag containers when shipping. Material safety sheets (SDS) warn about avoiding contact with strong bases or reducing agents, which can release iodine or break the ester linkage.
Labs and industry experts routinely call on Ethyl 4-Iodobutyrate as a raw material for pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and research intermediates. The iodine group gives it a real edge in stepwise organic synthesis, especially in building up longer carbon frameworks. For those working on medicinal chemistry, this compound stands as a reliable starting point for manufactured esters and specialty drugs. Wider practical use stretches into making flavor chemicals, plastics, or even specialty coatings. Because the ester moiety survives under mild conditions, it lets chemists alter just the iodo-position—building up complexity one layer at a time.
Ethyl 4-Iodobutyrate carries a molecular weight of about 242 grams per mole, owing to the heavy iodine atom pitched at one end of its carbon skeleton. Its international HS (Harmonized System) code lines up around 2915.90, usually filed as an ester of other inorganic acids—the iodine sets it apart from more common carboxylic acid derivatives. This import-export code comes up at customs frequently. The need for precise documentation on purity, hazard classification, and end-use justification is a must—border agents take the potential for misuse seriously, and tighter regulations apply in countries with stricter chemical controls.
Handling iodine-containing esters poses health and safety concerns beyond routine laboratory risks. The low flash point and potential to form hazardous vapors mean every step requires good ventilation. Inhalation or skin contact can irritate and potentially sensitize, especially after repeated exposure. Waste disposal rules recognize its toxic iodine content, so standard practice calls for collection and incineration, not just pouring down the drain. Environmental impact matters more now, as traces in groundwater or landfill create downstream problems for wildlife. Reducing exposure and spills starts with keeping secondary containment and quick access to spill kits. From experience, proper training and up-to-date safety protocols prevent minor accidents from becoming bigger medical or regulatory headaches.
Ethyl 4-Iodobutyrate stands out for its blend of high reactivity, distinctive physical profile, and precise role in advanced organic synthesis. From its molecular structure and reactivity to safe material handling and documentation, chemists and suppliers take every step to minimize risk and maximize value. Strong adherence to protocols, clean laboratory habits, and respect for regulatory needs help keep it as a tool for progress and not a source of hazard. As synthetic challenges grow more complex, materials like this will continue to play a prominent role—so long as science keeps ahead of safety and environmental demands.
