2-Phenylpyrrolidine stands out as a specialized organic compound used in a range of chemical syntheses and research fields. Most people who handle this chemical know its value lies in the unique structure: a five-membered nitrogenous ring (pyrrolidine) carrying a phenyl group at its second position. Chemists appreciate this design because it opens doors to numerous reactions, especially in medicinal chemistry and pharmaceutical development. I’ve seen researchers reach for this compound when designing new molecules aiming for specific biological activities, thanks to the presence of both the nitrogen ring and the aromatic component.
People working in laboratories notice 2-Phenylpyrrolidine for its white to off-white solid form, available as powder, flakes, or even in small crystalline lumps. The product doesn’t look like much at first glance—a fine, somewhat waxy substance, sometimes resembling tiny pearls if stored cold. The chemical formula reads C10H13N and the molecular weight clocks in at 147.22 g/mol. The molecular structure offers an interesting mix: a pyrrolidine core, which provides solubility in organic solvents, and an attached phenyl ring, which offers sites for further chemical tailoring. This compound rarely appears as a liquid at normal conditions. Most times, it shows up as a dry, solid material, fairly dense compared to simple organics—a density hovering around 1.05 g/cm3 feels about right from what I’ve seen pouring it out of a bottle.
For regulatory, import, and export processes, 2-Phenylpyrrolidine usually falls under HS Code 29333999, which covers various heterocyclic compounds. Manufacturers supply detailed specifications for pharmaceutical intermediates, fine chemicals, or research-grade material—buyers want to see purity levels, melting point range (typically near 74-76°C), and absence of moisture, all checked by analytical labs. Shelf life, packaging sizes, accepted levels for trace impurities, and residual solvents (often less than 0.5%) matter for people tracking the stability and usability of the chemical. Precise analytical data, such as NMR, IR, and GC-MS spectra, often travel with shipments for full traceability.
No chemical comes without risks; 2-Phenylpyrrolidine carries its own. While not explosive, not flammable at room temperature, and no tendency to decompose under ordinary storage, contact with the skin or eyes should be avoided—this isn’t something you want lingering after you close up a bottle. Inhalation presents a hazard in poorly ventilated labs, so fume hoods become essential during weighing and transfers. Data sheets list it as a harmful substance if ingested or absorbed, with warnings about acute and chronic toxicity potential. Workers in chemical factories, research institutes, and pilot plants need nitrile gloves, eye shields, and lab coats, and must know spill response protocols. Storage requires a cool, dry space and securely sealed containers, away from oxidizers or moisture. Regulatory rules and workplace policies often treat it as a hazardous material, calling for dedicated disposal streams and trained personnel. Routine exposure can be managed with proper education, equipment, and chemical hygiene culture in the workplace.
2-Phenylpyrrolidine often works as a building block in complex molecule construction, both for research and early-stage drug development. Synthetic chemists incorporate it in diverse routes, chasing new heterocyclic compounds with practical medical applications. The core structure brings value: it forms part of molecules investigated for neurological conditions or serves as a stepping stone for the assembly of active pharmaceutical ingredients. Manufacturers and labs appreciate its versatility, using it as a raw material in explorations that target everything from agrochemicals to performance additives. Mistakes handling this chemical lead to lost product and possible exposure, so process engineering and staff training matter as much as the chemical’s purity.
Companies source 2-Phenylpyrrolidine from specialty chemical manufacturers, with rigorous supply chain controls. Shipments come in tightly sealed drums or bottles, often with desiccant packs or secondary containment to prevent moisture pickup, clumping, or accidental spills. The finished product should never smell strange or appear discolored; visual and analytical checks at every step guarantee reliability. Environmental rules set strict limits: emissions, discharge, and waste management processes must follow local chemical safety standards. Used containers, residual product, or contaminated lab consumables deserve careful disposal—sending them to a standard landfill risks regulatory fines and broader contamination.
