P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid shows up in chemical catalogs as a distinct molecule, shaped by its butyl group attached to the para position of an aminobenzoic acid ring. Chemists see a formula of C11H15NO2 and a molecular weight hovering around 193.24 g/mol. You can recognize its pure state through a white crystalline appearance, sometimes resembling fine flakes or a dense powder. Beyond physical traits, this material carries particularity in its solid state, with clear crystals providing a tactile sense distinct from grainy powders or compact pearls seen in other organics.
Scientists and manufacturers often encounter P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid as a solid, available as both powder and flakes. Handling these forms requires attention as fine particles can become airborne, especially during transfer or weighing. The density lands just short of 1.1 g/cm³, placing it within the typical band for aromatic carboxylic acids, and this parameter can matter greatly when calculating solution concentrations or mixing with other compounds. In contrast to highly hygroscopic powders, this acid stays relatively stable, not clumping or caking quickly. A quick glance under the lens of a microscope reveals sharply defined crystals, clear enough in purity to satisfy most research or synthesis tasks.
Seeing the molecular skeleton of P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid highlights the aromatic benzene ring, with a para-butylamino group and a carboxylic acid at precise positions. This arrangement means the molecule offers both polar (carboxyl, amino) and non-polar (butyl) features, influencing solubility and compatibility in solvents. Its molecular formula, C11H15NO2, signals a balance between organic bulk and functional reactivity. Dissolution behavior reflects this: water shows some resistance to dissolving it, but ethanol and organics like ether quickly accommodate the acid. The specific features of each functional group affect how the molecule reacts, aligns with other chemical species, or takes part in larger molecular syntheses.
Industrially, P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid arrives with benchmarks such as purity—usually above 98%—and acid value, along with limits for moisture and heavy metals. Each batch ties to a chemical HS Code, commonly listed within 2922.49 for amino acids and their derivatives under the harmonized system classification. Importing or exporting involves paperwork that keys in on this HS Code, standard for any chemical crossing borders and subject to environmental as well as safety inspections. Familiarity with these regulatory boxes becomes vital due to increasing pressure on compliance and tracking of hazardous materials across supply chains. Inclusion in safety databases requires updated certificates, up-to-date safety data sheets, and a clear understanding of transport labeling.
Daily work with P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid demands awareness. It falls under “irritant” in major chemical safety systems and can provoke skin or respiratory issues if handled carelessly. Splashes of the crystalline solid or fine powder may aggravate eyes or mucous membranes, and airborne dust particles from shaking or mixing don’t mix well with unprotected lungs. There’s no strong systemic toxicity known yet, but best practice always leans on gloves, protective eyewear, lab ventilation, and prompt cleaning of spills. Accidental release often requires sweeping or vacuuming with equipment that prevents dusting into the workplace. Storage needs a sealed container away from strong bases or oxidizers, and clearly marked for any emergency crew.
P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid draws from basic aniline and benzoic acid derivatives, using alkylation and amination steps in synthesis. Chemical engineers make decisions around these raw materials for consistency, environmental profile, and price. Downstream, the acid has value as an intermediate in creating dyes, UV filters, pharmaceuticals, and niche synthetic routes where carboxylic reactivity joins with aromatic amines. Labs and plants bank on consistent specs because slight shifts in raw material grade or process conditions can ripple downstream, causing batch failures or knock-on regulatory headaches. A close relationship between procurement and quality control builds assurance that the acid hitting mixing tanks today matches the portfolio from last quarter, keeping both safety and process integrity intact.
Improvements start at the raw material level. Green chemistry advocates look for processes that capture or recycle solvents, reduce waste, and pull renewable feedstocks into production cycles. Digital tools help track supply chain origins, ensuring the acid aligns with sustainable sourcing commitments where customers demand transparency. In the lab and factory, easier ways to sample, weigh, and dispense the acid—automatic closed weighing stations, sealed container designs, local exhaust—cut risks for technicians and improve exposure records. Ongoing employee training makes a true difference, driving home the real consequences of lapses or shortcuts through stories, not mere warnings on paper. For downstream partners, closer documentation of impurity profiles and trace elements builds confidence that the P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid they’re receiving won’t derail sensitive pharmaceutical or dye syntheses, where even minor contaminants can torpedo regulatory approval or color stability.
Committing to safe, transparent, and efficient use of P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid calls for attention to every step in its life cycle—from synthesis and handling to delivery and application. Facts and careful experience tell us that even common aromatic acids hold the power to shift product quality and workplace safety. Building trust along the supply chain, documenting sources and specifications, and keeping safety tools close make a real difference in everyday use of materials like P-Butylaminobenzoic Acid.
