2-Piperidinoethanol brings together an organic backbone with a blend of amine and alcohol functional groups, making it a versatile compound in the chemical industry. The structure shows a six-membered piperidine ring bonded to an ethanol chain, and this unique linkage shapes both its physical and chemical character. Chemists working with this material know it by its formula C7H15NO, and its molecular weight falls around 129.20 g/mol. It features in a variety of synthesis processes, often as a raw material when building specialty organic molecules or pharmaceutical intermediates. The way the molecule binds—between the nitrogen atom of the piperidine and the alcohol group—gives it a range of reactivity, especially when subjected to different reaction conditions in a laboratory or factory setting.
Working with 2-Piperidinoethanol means handling a colorless to pale yellow liquid at room temperature. It can appear as a slightly viscous solution, though under cold storage or after certain purifications, crystalline forms or solid flakes can show up. Its density sits near 0.95 g/cm³ at 20°C, which puts it just under the density of water. For laboratories running tests or production environments, 2-Piperidinoethanol’s melting point sits around 24°C, while the boiling point reaches roughly 227°C. These features influence storage decisions, as above-room temperatures could cause the solid to liquefy during summer months or warmer climates, altering handling and packaging requirements.
This compound owes much of its utility to the piperidine ring joined by an ethanol (CH2CH2OH) side chain. The nitrogen within the piperidine introduces basicity and nucleophilicity, making the molecule reactive toward acids or acylating agents. This dual-function chemical structure opens doors in both small-scale organic synthesis and larger commercial reactions where multifunctional building blocks are valued. The hydroxyl group found at the end acts as a point for further substitutions, modifications, or for cross-linking in resin and polymer chemistry. Synthetic chemists appreciate how both sides of the molecule can be used for different purposes, reducing the need for extra reagents or complicated protection-deprotection steps.
Anyone working with 2-Piperidinoethanol for manufacturing needs to keep essential specifications in mind. Purity often exceeds 98%, since impurities can influence downstream reactions or finished product quality. Viscosity changes with temperature and concentration, affecting process control in automated systems. For bulk chemical trading, each consignment typically records parameters like moisture content, pH in solution, and exact density. The material falls under HS Code 29333990 for international trade, designating it as an “other heterocyclic compound.” This is handy for compliance during logistics, especially as countries tighten controls on chemical imports and exports.
In most warehouses or shipping containers, 2-Piperidinoethanol arrives as a liquid, stored in high-density polyethylene drums, stainless steel tanks, or occasionally glass containers for research use. Some suppliers offer solidified forms—flakes, compressed pellets, or even crystalline powder—if handling as a bulk solid offers improved safety or meets customer preference. For solutions, the compound mixes with water or organic solvents like methanol or ethanol, leading to changes in both reactivity and storage stability. Every container requires airtight seals, as the substance can absorb moisture from the air, which could alter both mass and composition.
While 2-Piperidinoethanol does not rank among the most hazardous chemicals on the market, it carries real risks if ignored. Direct contact with skin or eyes can cause irritation; prolonged or repeated exposure sometimes triggers allergic reactions or dermatitis. Inhalation of concentrated vapors may irritate mucous membranes, leading to coughing or mild respiratory symptoms. Chemists wearing gloves, goggles, and proper lab coats find little trouble, but those new to the compound should always read the material safety data sheet (MSDS) before use. Spills require prompt cleanup with absorbent materials and good ventilation to keep air concentrations low. This chemical, classified as harmful under global GHS standards, goes in the hazardous chemicals register, so disposal and transportation must follow local and international rules. Environmental persistence is not a major issue, but accidental discharge into drains or groundwater remains a concern for any chemical with amine or alcohol groups, as both may disrupt aquatic ecosystems in elevated concentrations.
Most commercial production of 2-Piperidinoethanol relies on catalytic hydrogenation or alkylation of piperidine derivatives. Raw feeds come from petrochemical routes; the ethanol moiety derives from ethylene or ethanol synthesis, while piperidine gets synthesized from related six-membered nitrogen-containing intermediates. Supply chains track both the chemical purity and origin, since contaminated batches lead to problems in downstream synthesis. Chemists used to testing raw materials verify each lot, double-checking for trace metals or by-products, especially if pharmaceutical or fine chemical routes follow. Regulations increasingly require suppliers to offer detailed audit trails and certificates of analysis, improving safety and quality but sometimes increasing lead times.
2-Piperidinoethanol sees use in the production of pharmaceutical intermediates, agrochemicals, specialty polymers, and surfactant formulations. Researchers appreciate it as a building block for drugs containing piperidine scaffolds, which shows up in antihistamines, antivirals, and other therapeutic agents. Specialty coatings and resins may feature functionalized piperidinoethanol for improved performance, especially when cross-linking or adding flexibility to the final polymer. Chemical plants using this raw material invest in monitoring equipment, since careful dosing and control lead to better reaction yields and less waste. As the chemical market grows more regulated, demand for detailed product information, precise safety data, and sustainable sourcing continues to rise.
To manage risks with 2-Piperidinoethanol, workplaces can focus on automated dosing equipment, sealed transfer lines, and continuous employee training. Substituting less hazardous compounds in some applications reduces potential exposure, but often the reactivity profile means alternatives are scarce or cost-prohibitive. Upstream, greener synthesis methods using renewable feedstocks or reduced waste strategies promise a lower environmental footprint in the future. Waste disposal needs tight control, with segregated collection and incineration or chemical neutralization. Regular safety audits, good laboratory practice (GLP), and supplier cooperation create a safer landscape for workers. Looking ahead, pressure from downstream markets—especially healthcare, electronics, and agriculture—could drive adoption of transparent, environmentally friendlier production chains, bringing both safety and sustainability improvements throughout the lifecycle of 2-Piperidinoethanol.
