Methyl 5-Bromovalerate stands out as a chemical intermediate valued in fields such as pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and synthetic chemistry. With a molecular formula of C6H11BrO2 and a molecular weight of 195.05 g/mol, it offers unique reactivity thanks to the presence of both an ester group and a bromine atom. This compound generally appears as a colorless to pale yellow liquid under normal conditions, giving off a mild, ester-like odor. Its relatively high purity is critical for downstream applications, especially when small differences in structure can lead to considerable changes in performance or safety. As someone familiar with material sourcing for lab projects, I often appreciate products that come with detailed spectra and certificates, since trace contaminants in intermediates like Methyl 5-Bromovalerate can interfere with finicky reactions at later stages of synthesis. The density of this liquid usually falls near 1.37 g/cm3, and it typically doesn’t solidify at room temperature. The packaging form—liquid in sealed containers—streamlines its transfer and use, though in my own experience, the risk of leaks always pushes me to triple-check container seals and ventilate the workspace.
This ester features a bromine atom on the fifth carbon of a pentanoic acid methyl ester. The structure can be drawn as CH3OOC-(CH2)4-Br, showing the close proximity of the reactive bromine and ester functionalities. The presence of bromine alters electron distribution and produces a difference in both reactivity and environmental behavior compared to non-halogenated esters, a property frequently used in the synthesis of more complex molecules. Methyl 5-Bromovalerate usually arrives as a clear, mobile liquid, though in colder climates or during winter shipments, users might see some crystallization or clouding. The melting point rests well below room temperature, and the boiling range stretches from about 220°C to 230°C. Such specifics matter, especially for scale-up and distillation work—thermal stability enables safe handling during more involved chemical manipulations.
The specific gravity near 1.37 means this ester feels noticeably denser than water, and its higher mass can make measuring by volume tricky if one relies on water-based assumptions. In experience, mixing it by hand, it tends not to blend well with water, showing minimal solubility, a common trait of organic halide esters. Solubility in ethanol or acetone looks much better, which helps in preparing stock solutions for research and industrial applications. Methyl 5-Bromovalerate remains stable under ambient conditions, resisting decomposition or hydrolysis unless exposed to strong acids, bases, or elevated heat for extended periods. Since the compound doesn’t normally produce dust, dangers linked to inhalation are lower than with powders or crystalline materials. Still, a liquid like this demands respect: accidental spills can cause persistent odors, and brominated substances present their own environmental hazards if not handled with diligence.
Manufacturers count on Methyl 5-Bromovalerate to build more complex molecules by taking advantage of the reactive bromine position. Pharmaceutical and agrochemical labs make good use of it as a stepping stone in multi-stage syntheses, and specialty polymer sectors sometimes require halogenated esters as functional agents. As a raw material, sourcing unknown or inconsistent grades increases risk, especially in high-purity contexts. Preferred suppliers provide analytical results showing the absence of unexpected byproducts, and for labs or companies with environmental or employee health compliance needs, documentation regarding process safety and traceability proves essential. I’ve seen projects derailed by poorly characterized intermediates, with months lost tracking mysterious impurities back to subpar lots—having the right details upfront makes a big difference.
The product usually falls under the HS Code 2915.90.0090, classifying it among other organic esters and derivatives. Despite not qualifying as a highly regulated or flagged substance, Methyl 5-Bromovalerate should be treated as a hazardous chemical. Direct contact leads to irritation of skin and eyes, and inhalation of vapor, especially in heated operations, prompts respiratory discomfort. Labels point out risk phrases like “Harmful if swallowed” and advise against prolonged, unprotected exposure. Handling protocols recommend use of nitrile gloves, goggles, and lab coats, and transferring the liquid in fume hoods where practical. Accidental releases require immediate cleanup with absorbent materials, followed by careful disposal according to local hazardous waste rules—a step never skipped in well-run labs. Once, a spill happened during a delivery to a research suite: the cleanup used half a roll of absorbent pads, and all involved commented on the lingering, sweet smell, which even after dilution with soap and water, did not disappear instantly. This sticks in my memory as a reminder about both volatility and persistence of such esters, and why containers should always stay tightly sealed.
Prolonged or repeated exposure brings up concerns about chronic toxicity or environmental build-up. As a brominated ester, the compound can be more persistent in soil and water than non-halogenated analogues. Disposal by flushing down drains counts as both irresponsible and illegal in many places, with regulations insisting that all waste routes go through trained chemical waste handlers. From a personal safety standpoint, a no-nonsense approach—ventilation, double-checking bottle labeling, practicing spill prevention—beats any shortcuts. MSDS documentation lists specific symptoms and recommended first aid, but staying ahead of accidents by good housekeeping and clear signage limits the likelihood of any urgent exposures. Reading about chemical accidents in trade magazines, the root cause nearly always comes back to either poor housekeeping or taking shortcuts with "routine" reactions. Experience teaches the value of steady habits; both for staying healthy, and for avoiding environmental incidents the neighborhood might remember longer than any research result. While innovation and new applications bring excitement, keeping fundamentals at the front of daily practice keeps both people and long-term projects working smoothly.
