Methyl 2-Bromohexanoate: Product Description and Key Characteristics

What is Methyl 2-Bromohexanoate?

Methyl 2-Bromohexanoate stands out as a halogenated ester in chemical processing, laboratory synthesis, and fine chemical manufacturing. This compound appears as a pale liquid in its purest form, sometimes materializing as a crystalline solid at lower temperatures. Its subtle yet pungent scent often signals its presence in the work environment. As a chemical, Methyl 2-Bromohexanoate offers a straightforward C₇H₁₃BrO₂ structure, combining a bromo group and a methyl ester attached to a six-carbon backbone, which delivers a blend of solubility and reactivity crucial for many reactions.

Chemical Structure and Formula

The molecular formula of Methyl 2-Bromohexanoate is C₇H₁₃BrO₂. Its structure features a methyl group linked to a 2-bromohexanoic acid backbone. With a molar mass of about 209.08 g/mol, the chemical’s backbone facilitates diverse transformations, including nucleophilic substitutions and reductions. The bromine atom sits at the second carbon, which brings strong electrophilic properties, making the compound a popular starting point for synthesizing more complex molecules.

Physical Properties

At room temperature, Methyl 2-Bromohexanoate often pours as a clear liquid, but depending on the storage temperature and purity, it may solidify into fine, clear flakes or granular powder. Many chemists favor this versatility since it allows precise dosing whether someone handles it as a liquid for batch processes or measures it out in flake form for smaller-scale syntheses. This ester displays a density of approximately 1.27 g/cm³, so it settles heavier than water when left undisturbed. Boiling occurs at about 230–234°C, while melting usually begins just above room temperature if the environment cools enough. Those signatures make this compound easy to identify with basic lab equipment.

Common Samples and Appearances

Depending on handling and storage, Methyl 2-Bromohexanoate may show up as a colorless to slightly yellow-tinted liquid, long crystalline plates, or compacted flakes. Laboratories sometimes store this chemical as pearls or as a powder to simplify weighing and minimize spillage. Dissolved in organic solvents, the resulting solutions remain clear, showing no significant color under standard lighting. Its relatively low vapor pressure reduces loss by evaporation, which boosts shelf stability. Larger chemical suppliers tend to deliver this material in tightly sealed bottles or jugs lined for chemical compatibility, driven by regulations and general practice.

HS Code and Regulatory Details

For purposes of trade and customs, the HS Code often specified for Methyl 2-Bromohexanoate is 2915.90. This code covers esters of acetic acid and derivatives, a group that includes methyl hexanoate derivatives. Regulatory agencies around the globe classify this ester as a hazardous chemical, requiring well-marked containers that warn users about its risks.

Safety and Handling

Methyl 2-Bromohexanoate poses several hazards typical of small halogenated esters. Skin and eye exposure may cause rapid irritation or burns. Inhalation brings risks due to strong fumes, so proper ventilation becomes central to any workspace routine. I recall handling another bromo-ester once without full protection—skin contact caused itching and redness within minutes. Safety data sheets agree, noting the need for goggles, gloves, and respiratory protection. Its flammable nature keeps it away from ignition sources, and direct mixing with strong bases or oxidizing agents triggers violent reactions. Safe disposal routes involve incineration in controlled facilities. Keeping materials double-sealed and stored in chemical-resistant cabinets stays the norm among seasoned lab staff.

Material Applications and Usage

This compound plays a core role as a raw material in synthesizing fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemical intermediates. Its reactivity means researchers often start with Methyl 2-Bromohexanoate to build more elaborate frameworks, like amino acids, esters, or chiral auxiliaries. Chemistry teams rely on its predictable bromo functionality when planning Grignard reactions or other organometallic steps. Industrial-scale outfits lean on the material for its stable performance and ready availability in bulk, often quantifying stocks by the liter or kilogram. Such consistency assures product quality, with lab managers tracking each lot through robust batch records.

Environmental, Storage, and Transport Concerns

Due to hazardous classification, transport involves certified carriers, with clear chemical labeling and leak-proof packaging. Local authorities demand chemical-proof secondary containment during shipment or longer-term storage. Many workplaces install chemical spill kits and keep neutralizing agents like sodium bicarbonate in reach. Any accidental release mandates swift response owing to waterway contamination concerns. Wastewater streams from facilities need treatment before discharge, focusing on the ester’s limited but real aquatic toxicity. Experience shows strict adherence to procedures curbs both environmental contamination and loss of valuable materials.

Conclusion: Value and Risk Balanced in Practice

Methyl 2-Bromohexanoate offers real value as a building block in synthetic chemistry, linking laboratory discovery to scalable industrial supply. At the same time, clear hazards exist—fume management, personal protection, and controlled disposal each demand close attention. Strong product stewardship, staff education, and thorough documentation keep this useful chemical within safe bounds, balancing its strengths with the diligence that comes from experience and good science.