2-Benzoylthiophene, known under the molecular formula C11H8OS, steps out as an interesting player within the family of substituted thiophenes. The structure hinges on a thiophene ring—essentially a five-membered ring holding both sulfur and carbon—attached directly to a benzoyl group at the second position. Chemistry labs and industrial set-ups often encounter this compound as chemists chart synthetic routes toward pharmaceuticals and specialty chemicals. The HS Code for 2-Benzoylthiophene typically falls under 293499 for customs and regulatory paperwork, marking it as a specialty aromatic compound. Diving into the crystalline or powdered form of this compound, you'll spot off-white or pale yellow flakes or crystalline solids rather than any sticky liquid or oily phase.
Relating to physical specifics, 2-Benzoylthiophene often appears as a free-flowing solid, taking the shape of flaky powder, compact granules, or even, in well-controlled crystallizations, translucent pebbles, and pearls. The density walks the line between 1.2–1.3 g/cm3; this puts it right in the range familiar to anyone who has handled organo-sulfur solids. It doesn’t like water much—stick some in a beaker, and you’ll see it resist mixing, which makes sense for a molecule surrounded by aromatic rings. Peaks and valleys in the melting curve land in the range of 56–60 °C, depending on purity. In a flask with solvents like dichloromethane, ethanol, or acetone, the powder and flakes dissolve more or less readily, yielding clear solutions fit for synthetic preparations. The characteristic chemical signature pops out in analytical data—a chorus of signals from aromatic hydrogens, sulfur’s whiff, and that unmistakable carbonyl snap in IR spectra. Whether handled as an input for medicinal research or as a step in a dyes synthesis line, users watch the chemical closely, noting the sharp crystalline texture coupled with a faint, pleasantly sharp aroma familiar to those who work with aromatic thienyls.
Inside the laboratory world, 2-Benzoylthiophene pops up as a critical raw material—the backbone of higher-value pharmaceuticals, often dropped into reactions aiming to build molecules with complex frameworks. Its structure helps introduce reactivity at the 2-position, shaping countless heterocyclic targets. I’ve watched researchers, myself included, stir its powdery grains into flasks to drive Friedel-Crafts acylations or set up Suzuki couplings, eyeing the weight and volume with care. This solid resists casual storage, as exposure to open air encourages clumping and a slow yellowing under UV. Glass vials, polypropylene bags, or amber jars help keep the substance pure and free-flowing for the next batch or synthesis run. Chemists value the predictability of the compound, with crystalline grains that don’t compact into problematic lumps under ordinary lab humidity and pressure.
Addressing safety, 2-Benzoylthiophene is neither benign nor outrageously hazardous. You should always check the MSDS sheet before planning your handling protocol. It can irritate the nose, skin, and eyes if managed carelessly. Its fine particles kick up easily, reminding anyone who’s done bench work to secure a proper lab coat and gloves. Too much inhalation will cause discomfort—a good fume hood pays for itself if you’re weighing this in regular quantities. At scale, larger synthesis operations should anticipate appropriate ventilation, labeled storage, and effective spill controls just like with any non-volatile aromatic solid. Although not flagged as acutely toxic, the compound occupies that middle ground of laboratory chemicals—safe in skilled hands with known risks, yet a poor choice for casual, unprotected exposure.
Specifications for purchase or in-house production nearly always require the crystalline powder at ≥98% purity. Analytical labs scrutinize for trace contaminants, especially considering how a speck of another thiophene or benzoylated impurity can sink an entire synthesis. Exact melting point, density, and color serve as immediate quality checkpoints. Those ordering by the liter or kilogram get crisp data sheets with molecular weight (188.25 g/mol), solubility charted across solvents, and clearly marked CAS number (2131-44-2). That’s not just paperwork—it’s essential for industry, where an overlooked impurity upends downstream yields or, in the worst cases, safety profiles of end pharmaceuticals. A lot of users prefer the solid over any solution or pre-diluted form since it keeps shipment costs low and long shelf life high, as moisture and light remain easy to exclude for powdered chemicals.
Hazards and concerns pop up with 2-Benzoylthiophene, as they do for any moderately complex organic raw material. Spillage of powdered flake or crystalline dust prompts immediate cleanup to prevent inhalation or spread, and any hint of fumes or breakdown products flags issues in local exhaust or containment. In my experience, chemical waste builds up quickly; a solid disposal plan, including safe solvent use and regular bulk pickup, keeps the workspace compliant and healthy. Poor labeling or storage introduces real risk—rusted tins or popped bags leave residue everywhere, so only sturdy, inert, clearly labeled containers provide reliable protection. Scale-up in manufacturing shouldn’t overlook reaction exotherms, since the compound responds to strong acids and oxidizers with decomposition; thoughtful temperature control, active monitoring, and training pay dividends. Smart labs and plants invest early in secure, R&D-grade storage, decent PPE, and solid training programs rather than rolling the dice and hoping for no incidents. This mindset transforms the chemical from a risky material to a reliable springboard for downstream synthesis, where the right preparation and a respect for its hazards maximize both productivity and safety.
