1-Ethylpiperidin-3-ol stands as a significant organic compound featuring a six-membered piperidine ring with an ethyl group at the first position and a hydroxyl group at the third. In chemical circles, this molecule attracts attention for its versatility as a raw material, primarily due to its structural features and reactive alcohol functional group. People engaged in fine chemicals or pharmaceutical processes recognize its importance, as 1-Ethylpiperidin-3-ol enables synthetic pathways that deliver both intermediates and end products for various applications.
The chemical formula, C7H15NO, speaks to its composition—seven carbons, fifteen hydrogens, a single nitrogen, and an oxygen atom from the alcohol group. The molecular weight generally clocks in at about 129.20 g/mol. The piperidine ring structure gives the molecule both flexibility and reactivity, while the placement of the ethyl and hydroxyl offers opportunities for both hydrophilic and hydrophobic interactions. This dual character lets chemists fine-tune protocols, whether they are seeking improved solubility, stability, or reactivity under specific reaction conditions.
At ambient temperature, 1-Ethylpiperidin-3-ol often arrives as either a clear to pale yellow liquid or as a crystalline solid when stored in cooler environments. The material's physical state depends on temperature and storage practices, with melting points and boiling ranges influenced slightly by purity. Typical density stands close to 0.95 g/cm³ at 20°C. Some laboratories have handled it in the form of powder or crystalline flakes, while specialized suppliers sometimes offer solutions of defined concentration. Its mild, amine-like odor is characteristic.
Safety ranks high when talking about substances like 1-Ethylpiperidin-3-ol. While not as hazardous as solvents like chlorinated hydrocarbons, it brings the risks associated with amines and alcohols. Users report mild irritant effects upon skin or eye contact, and laboratory best practices recommend gloves, eye protection, and sufficient ventilation. Vapor, though not highly volatile, may cause respiratory irritation under concentrated exposure. Safe storage—away from acids, oxidizers, or ignition sources—prevents dangerous reactions. Spills should be cleaned with suitable absorbent materials, not flushed to drains. Those responsible for shipping or handling reference HS Code 2933399990, facilitating compliance with international regulations.
Chemical manufacturing professionals often look to 1-Ethylpiperidin-3-ol as a building block for synthesizing pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty polymers. It operates well as an intermediate for producing certain active ingredients, especially where the piperidine scaffold remains valuable for biological activity. Its reactivity profile supports the introduction of further substituents, offering a bridge for multi-step organic synthesis. In the field, I’ve seen chemists prefer it because the ethyl group blocks undesired reactions at the nitrogen site, while the alcohol function allows straightforward derivatization. That flexibility means it shows up in routes leading to both generic and branded compounds.
Manufacturers and buyers both rely on robust specifications for 1-Ethylpiperidin-3-ol, since downstream yield and purity hinge on the starting material’s quality. Purity usually exceeds 98% by gas chromatography, while water content falls below 0.5% to avoid hydrolysis risks. The product sometimes comes in solid, crystalline, or oily form, with batches tested for color, melting point, and residue on evaporation. Analytical reports often accompany shipments, providing reassurance that the properties match expectations, from density to refractive index. In my experience, reliable sourcing grows critical for those scaling chemical syntheses—the difference between a clean batch and a contaminated one can be thousands of dollars in lost time and wasted solvent.
Thanks to its structure, 1-Ethylpiperidin-3-ol opens doors for reactions like alkylation, acylation, or oxidation. The molecule’s alcohol function takes part in ester formation or even selective oxidation, while the secondary amine can engage in nucleophilic substitution. This balance of functionalities translates into fewer side products and greater control in complex organic reactions. I’ve observed research teams specifically mention the chemical’s performance advantage because impurities rarely persist in the final product, facilitating the push from lab prototype to scaled production.
Suppliers offer 1-Ethylpiperidin-3-ol in varied packaging: amber glass bottles for small laboratory quantities, larger metal drums, or lined polypropylene containers for industrial loads. Each option addresses light sensitivity and evaporation risk, with tamper-evident seals meeting regulatory standards for chemical transport. For longer-term storage, low temperatures and low humidity best protect product quality. Careful labeling, with full hazard statements and batch tracking, keeps companies on the right side of safety inspectors and audit requirements.
While not classed as highly hazardous, 1-Ethylpiperidin-3-ol’s presence in waterways raises concern, since nitrogen compounds add to nitrate loads that stress wastewater infrastructure. Disposal should follow local chemical waste protocols: use of designated hazardous waste containers, avoidance of sewage system releases, and proper registration for off-site treatment. Opportunities exist to reclaim or neutralize the compound to reduce total waste. Some firms recovering valuable raw materials even choose chemical recycling, demonstrating the path to greener chemistry and tighter process economics.
