Anyone glancing at the name 5,6,7,7 A-Tetrahydrothiophene[3,2-C]Pyridin-2(4H)-One P-Toluenesulfonate might feel a bit overwhelmed at first. This compound holds its own as a specialty chemical, lying somewhere between the world of theoretical organic chemistry and practical industrial applications. Over the years working in research and chemical sourcing, I've come across plenty of mouthfuls, but few as tricky as this one. Its structure carries a fused heterocycle built around a pyridinone backbone, attached to a tetrahydrothiophene ring. The p-toluenesulfonate group adds another layer, making it not only a solid choice for specialty synthesis, but also affecting how the molecule interacts under various lab conditions.
Getting into the physical characteristics, this compound draws attention for being surprisingly versatile in its forms. In most practical settings, you'll find it as a beige or pale solid, often in a crystalline form. I once handled a batch that looked almost stony, with small flake-like pieces breaking apart under just a bit of pressure. Others fetch it as a fine powder or larger pearls, depending on the drying process and preparation method used at the plant. Normally, its density hovers around 1.3 to 1.5 g/cm³, though you can spot small shifts based on hydration or storage. Melting points usually fall within the 170-200°C window, reflecting the robust sulfonate salt structure. Dissolving it in organic solvents works well, particularly for those aiming to make stock solutions for reactions, but keep it away from water if you don’t appreciate a stubborn, clumpy mess.
Chemists writing formulae will note its molecular formula, usually recorded as C14H16NOS·C7H7SO3. The actual arrangement in three-dimensional space makes a difference, especially when talking about selectivity in chemical reactions. While the backbone fuses aromatic and saturated rings, the toluenesulfonate moiety pulls electron density in a way that can change reactivity or shelf life. Any time I received a new sample, a quick check of the NMR spectrum told me more than anything — poorly characterized material promises headaches down the line for anyone scaling up.
Shipping or importing this material means dealing with the Harmonized System (HS) code, which for complex heterocyclic compounds like this, usually nests in the 2934 category for heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen heteroatoms. Paperwork sometimes gets bogged down by customs over the "p-toluenesulfonate" tag, so clear documentation helps everyone from sourcing agents to customs officers. Mistaken identity on customs sheets once delayed a whole project for me, so getting these details right matters in real-world settings.
Physical form isn’t academic — it affects everything from weighing and handling to reaction accuracy. Most common batches arrive as solids, often in powder or semi-crystalline flakes. Larger pearls appear on occasion, easier to scoop than fine powder and less likely to float away on a static-laden day. I've never seen a liquid or purely amorphous "solution" of this compound, and if it’s described as such, I start asking hard questions about purity. Proper storage in airtight containers keeps degradation in check, especially if working in humid climates where moisture intrusion can turn crystalline material into sticky lumps. For precise analytical work, weighing quickly and with minimal air exposure keeps things moving.
Anyone in the business of specialty chemicals has stories about safety slips, and this material demands respect. Inhalation of dust or prolonged skin contact pushes exposure boundaries, particularly with the sulfonate group that can irritate sensitive skin. Material Safety Data Sheets mark this compound as slightly hazardous — not something you’d want lying around open on a crowded workbench. Safe handling comes down to gloves, goggles, and a well-ventilated hood. Waste stays separate from halogenated or strongly oxidizing materials to avoid unpredictable byproducts. One incident taught me the value of double bagging waste, especially when cleaning up damp powder at the end of a shift. Emergency protocols don't need to be fancy but should be well-understood by everyone working with the compound, including temporary staff and students.
Tracing the supply chain back shows that the crucial building blocks — typically substituted pyridinones and thiophenes — aren’t exactly supermarket fare. Reliable synthesis of the toluenesulfonate salt takes careful control during quenching, and a good bit of skill in purification. Depending on regional sourcing, precursor quality and shipment times play into manufacturing schedules. A late delivery of a key raw material once sent costs spiraling and made clear how interconnected everything really is. For larger buyers, consistent sourcing — rather than bargain hunting — brings peace of mind and smoother workflows.
