(3R)-3-Methylpiperazin-2-One defines a specific organic compound built on a piperazine skeleton with a methyl group at position three and a cyclic amide at position two. As a chemical raw material, it contributes to a variety of research and manufacturing applications, often leading into pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and novel materials. Sourcing or handling this compound, a person stands before a pale or white solid, sometimes found in flakes, powder, or crystalline forms. Physical identity remains grounded in the heterocyclic six-membered ring structure, paired with a methyl group that affects both its reactivity and solubility.
The core of (3R)-3-Methylpiperazin-2-One features the formula C5H10N2O and a molecular weight of about 114.15 g/mol. Structural specifics show a piperazinone ring, with nitrogen atoms at positions one and four, one carbonyl group linked at position two, and a methyl branch attached at the third carbon in the R-configuration. In practical use, this stereochemistry matters. Whether developing chiral drugs or searching for predictable reactivity, stereochemistry influences both physical and chemical properties and shapes potential biological effects.
In a lab, the material most often shows up as solid flakes or powder, off-white to white in color. Handling might reveal a crystalline structure to the naked eye. Bulk storage or shipping formats may also offer pearls or crystalline aggregates, while on rare occasions, solutions in water or organic solvents become necessary for synthesis steps. Specific gravity lands close to that of similar heterocycles; density often falls in the range of 1.1 to 1.2 g/cm3, but always check supplier data as small differences occur between batches.
Use of (3R)-3-Methylpiperazin-2-One in the chemical industry goes far beyond just one or two applications. It plays a role as an intermediate in drug discovery, connecting several synthetic pathways, especially where a cyclic piperazine or methylated ring system is essential. Chemists find this backbone valuable for designing enzyme inhibitors, central nervous system drugs, and agricultural protectants. Outside the lab, manufacturers rely on reliable supply of these raw materials, demanding tight specifications to reduce unwanted impurities or yield issues. A tightly defined melting point—usually hovering between 85°C and 90°C—serves as a fingerprint.
All reputable suppliers provide product lots described by purity (often 98% or higher), water content, melting point, and residual solvent profile. Many countries refer to a Harmonized System (HS) Code for customs and regulation—typically, piperazine and its derivatives fall under 2933.59, but always verify based on the most recent tariff schedules. Specification sheets should be checked before each purchase, especially as trace contaminants influence physical or biological chemistry. Analytical methods like NMR, IR, and HPLC cover structure and impurity testing, confirming the product matches necessary parameters for critical synthesis.
Chemical safety documentation paints a clear picture of material risks. (3R)-3-Methylpiperazin-2-One demands handling with gloves and protective eyewear, since inhalation of fine powder or direct skin contact sometimes causes irritation. Repeated exposure to certain piperazine derivatives has been linked to respiratory complaints or mild central nervous system effects, even if toxicity remains moderate compared to many organics. Avoiding uncontrolled discharge into soil or drains makes sense, because nitrogen-rich compounds can disrupt local ecosystems. Waste disposal should fit local chemical safety guidelines; in many labs, that means secure collection and contractor incineration. Up-to-date Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are a must and should always be reviewed by users, whether in a manufacturing plant or research institute.
Chemical suppliers and labs store (3R)-3-Methylpiperazin-2-One away from extreme humidity, light, and oxidizing chemicals. Most forms remain stable in tightly sealed containers at room temperature, and it resists hydrolysis under neutral pH. Keep material dry to prevent caking of powder or clumping of crystalline forms. Sold in multi-kilogram drums, sealed bags, or smaller glass jars, this compound’s physical nature means shipping must prevent exposure to water and avoid temperature spikes that could compromise product quality.
Sourcing relies on a dependable global network. Whether a product goes into pharmaceuticals or polymers, buyers expect full traceability, batch records, and analytical validation tracing back to the manufacturer. Supplier audits, lot certificates, and regulatory compliance checks confirm identity and purity. Supply interruptions can delay research or impact medicine production, highlighting the need for multiple vetted producers.
While considered low-hazard compared to many solvents or strong bases, (3R)-3-Methylpiperazin-2-One still requires routine risk management. Avoid inhaling fine dust or contacting skin directly, as with most amine-derived materials. Safe handling workflow includes engineered ventilation, protective clothing, and regular staff training. Any large spill or exposure event should trigger established emergency response measures, with spill kits and chemical showers accessible at all times.
Continuous process optimization could further reduce residual solvents or improve crystal purity, lowering costs and ensuring consistent quality. Advancements in green process chemistry, such as solvent-free syntheses or improved recycling, trim down the environmental footprint and enhance workplace safety at the same time. For users seeking new applications, ongoing collaboration between suppliers and end-users supports product customization and specification expansion, always with an eye on regulatory compliance and final product safety.
