Methyl 3-bromopropanoate is an organic intermediate that draws attention both for its unique structural features and its utility across synthetic chemistry and industry. With the molecular formula C4H7BrO2 and a molecular weight of 167.00 g/mol, this compound incorporates both ester and bromoalkane functionalities. Speaking from direct laboratory use, it is a colorless to pale yellow liquid, clear and free from any suspended impurities, which can be especially important during sensitive reactions where trace solids could interfere. Some batches appear faintly crystalline at cooler temperatures, but most of the time, it holds a consistent fluid character, with no inclination to clumping or powdering. This chemical doesn’t fall under the common “powder” or “flake” description and sits distinctly as a mobile, liquid raw material.
The structure of methyl 3-bromopropanoate features a bromine atom bound to the third carbon of a propanoic acid methyl ester backbone. That arrangement opens it up to a broad range of reactivity, and people in the lab appreciate the clear BC(=O)OCH3 tail, which resists hydrolysis under typical storage. The density clocks in at about 1.45 g/mL at 25°C, heavier than water, a sign of the halogen’s presence. Solubility trends follow most esters: immiscible with water but ready to dissolve in a variety of organic solvents, including ether, acetone, and dichloromethane. Going by its boiling point, methyl 3-bromopropanoate boils close to 169-171°C, and the vapor has that clean, sharp, ester-like odor but with a more piercing, synthetic note, often reminding professionals that safety precautions are not just for show.
Suppliers often list this compound with a purity of ≥98%, which reflects the needs in fine chemical manufacturing. A yellowish tinge or faint haziness in the liquid can indicate traces of byproducts but does not always represent inferior quality, especially if backed up by reliable GC or NMR trace. Physical handling reveals low viscosity, meaning it pours quickly and does not form sticky residues on glassware, an underrated benefit during bulk synthesis. Crystallization rarely occurs under ambient conditions, but long-term storage at lower temperatures without moisture exposure can occasionally yield small flakes; the compound rapidly returns to its liquid state at room temperature.
Methyl 3-bromopropanoate has clear hazard signals. Both the bromo and ester moieties make it a chemical that deserves respect, as liquid or vapor exposure can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Its GHS classification flags it as acutely toxic, and personal protective equipment should never be skipped. Labs and manufacturing lines keep it under strict ventilation, and direct contact with any raw, undiluted methyl 3-bromopropanoate is something I have always worked to avoid. Gloves, goggles, and fume hood use are non-negotiable. In case of a spill, sand or inert absorbents can contain it, and the substance should never enter drains due to persistence concerns in aquatic environments. It’s also on several regulatory lists as a hazardous corrosive and is labeled with the HS Code 2915.90.7090, indicating its status among brominated organic esters.
Traditional production starts with methyl acrylate or methyl propanoate and runs through bromination under controlled conditions. That process usually brings a need for robust containment and waste handling. My experience shows that reliable product only comes from facilities with thorough batch tracking, temperature control, and waste neutralization, considering the risk of forming unwanted dibromo derivatives or corrosive byproducts without scrupulous management. Raw material costs fluctuate depending on regional demand for bromine and methanol-derived esters, so price stability often depends on tight supplier relationships. Professional setup maintains quality standards, with certificates of analysis issued for each lot.
This compound is much more than a simple molecular building block. It acts as a precursor in pharmaceuticals, agrochemical intermediates, and polymer initiators. Methyl 3-bromopropanoate’s electrophilic carbon center supports alkylation or nucleophilic substitution, which is why it anchors many multi-step reaction schemes. Its predictability under base or nucleophile conditions helps chemists avoid side reactions. In my own synthesis work, getting reliable product means fewer purification headaches and less time lost during scale-up. Given its strong reactivity profile, safety comes right alongside utility: facilities keep detailed risk management documentation to keep both workers and end uses protected.
Long-term storage of methyl 3-bromopropanoate calls for dark, tightly sealed glass bottles or HDPE containers, away from sources of heat or direct sunlight. Weakness to hydrolysis means that even trace water ingress can degrade product over a few weeks or months. In my experience, storing in small volumes under dry nitrogen keeps the product fresh and unreactive. Transport regulations set minimum containment requirements, and shippers must label the compound according to its hazardous status. Regular inventory audits and safety checks minimize any risk of age-related deterioration or accidental leaks.
To reduce risk, companies switch to integrated handling systems and automated dispensing. Electronic chemical management tools track shelf life and enforce rotation so older material never lingers. Proper training programs, user guides in the local language, and regular fit-testing for PPE build a culture of safe handling. Waste reduction comes from precision metering and optimized batch size, ensuring that no surplus chemical accumulates on the shelf. On a larger scale, developing greener bromination reactions and recycling schemes further limit environmental impact. Industries that depend on methyl 3-bromopropanoate find value in supplier transparency, demand third-party audits, and update internal guidelines with every change in international safety standards.
