Tert-Butyl 10-Bromodecanoate is a chemical compound used across organic synthesis, research, and pharmaceutical development. The structure features a decanoic acid chain with a bromine atom on the tenth carbon, capped by a tert-butyl ester group, giving it a unique profile among carboxylic acid derivatives. This molecular setup supports a range of reactivity, especially where selective bromination or protection of carboxyl groups matters. Industries pick up this compound because the tert-butyl protects the acid functionality, allowing further modifications without unwanted reactivity at that site.
The molecular formula, C14H27BrO2, gives away a lot about the compound's build. The tert-butyl ester links to a 10-bromodecanoic acid backbone. Looking closer, each portion of the molecule brings its own character. The tert-butyl group, made of a central carbon attached to three methyl groups, shows up often in organic synthesis because it stands up well to a range of reaction conditions and comes off cleanly when needed. The long decanoate chain, with a terminal bromine atom, opens possibilities for further functionalization, such as substituting the bromine in nucleophilic reactions. On paper, the molar mass reaches about 311.27 g/mol, relevant for precise calculations in formulation and reactions.
Tert-Butyl 10-Bromodecanoate appears as a solid at room temperature, sometimes presenting in the form of flakes or a crystalline powder, though storage and handling conditions can make the difference between a free-flowing powder and more compacted chunks. The density averages close to 1.1 g/cm3, which checks out against similar alkyl esters with brominated chains. Labs keep it in well-sealed containers to keep it from clumping or picking up moisture. Color often remains white or off-white unless impurities or decomposition products are present.
Chemists turn to Tert-Butyl 10-Bromodecanoate mostly as a building block in synthesis. That bromine at the tenth position lets scientists swap in a new functional group, or extend a chain, with relative ease. The tert-butyl ester, on the other end, holds its own during most reaction conditions, surviving strong bases and mild acids, only yielding under strong acid or prolonged heating. The result is a highly flexible intermediate that supports safe scale-up and production. This molecule finds its place not just for its individual reactivity but because it helps make things that can’t be made quite as efficiently by other means—key in pharmaceutical ingredient production or advanced material research.
Tert-Butyl 10-Bromodecanoate often dissolves best in non-polar solvents like dichloromethane, ether, or chloroform. Water doesn’t do the job, due to the bulky hydrophobic chain and ester group. Handling the material, lab techs wear gloves and goggles as the brominated chain can be harmful if inhaled or exposed on skin for long periods. Containers stay closed tight and away from heat sources; the compound should not sit out in sunlight, as prolonged UV can sometimes spur degradation. Material safety data sheets always recommend negative-pressure hoods for weighing or pouring larger quantities.
Any brominated organic molecule calls for careful handling, as some compounds in this category have a bad reputation for environmental persistence or human toxicity. Tert-Butyl 10-Bromodecanoate doesn’t break that trend. Skin contact may be irritating, and inhalation of dust isn’t advised. Spills require prompt cleanup, ideally with absorbent material, and liquid waste gets shipped as hazardous chemical refuse. The molecule will not break down fast in the environment, so disposal in regular trash or down the drain is off limits. Proper hazard labeling and documentation stay critical, especially for bulk movement or storage.
The harmonized system (HS) code for this chemical often falls under the broader heading for organic chemicals containing a bromine atom. This rarely sits on the product’s label itself but shows up in shipping paperwork, crucial for international trade. Production typically relies on decanoic acid derivatives and brominating agents, both available through standard chemical suppliers. The tert-butyl group normally comes from isobutylene gas, handled with care during esterification reactions. Global suppliers keep stocks of this compound, but lead times vary based on local regulations controlling brominated materials’ movement.
The demand for Tert-Butyl 10-Bromodecanoate keeps pace with the broader push for complex intermediates in drug development. Some sectors eye this molecule for roles in novel material production, where long-chain alkyl groups and selective reactivity stack up desirably. Regulatory scrutiny, especially concerning halogenated organics, may tighten supply chains. Producers invest in safer, cleaner processes to handle waste and limit residual bromine in byproducts. Research aims to find more benign pathways for synthesis, cutting toxic waste without losing the versatility that makes these intermediates valuable.
Moving toward better stewardship starts with tighter process controls and worker training on handling, storage, and spill response for Tert-Butyl 10-Bromodecanoate. Some labs explore alternatives, like direct esterification methods that limit hazardous reagents or produce less persistent waste. Reclamation and recycling of bromine-containing byproducts enter the conversation as organizations focus on sustainability. Efforts to roll out more detailed chemical tracking, paired with investments in greener synthesis and downstream cleanup, help reduce environmental risk. Regulatory compliance remains a daily part of good lab practice, with documentation accessible for every batch, drum, and dispatch.
