Ethyl 4-Oxopiperidine-1-Carboxylate stands out in the chemical industry for its role as an organic intermediate. Its structure includes a piperidine ring substituted at the 4-position with a carbonyl group and an ethyl carboxylate function on the nitrogen. Found commonly as a raw material in pharmaceutical synthesis, this compound bridges early-stage research with large-scale manufacturing thanks to its unique chemical backbone and manageable handling characteristics. Functionally, it enters reactions where both electrophilic and nucleophilic properties prove useful, and this blend brings significant versatility to fine chemical production environments.
Drawing a basic portrait of this molecule, the chemical formula reads C8H13NO3. Its molecular weight sits at about 171.19 g/mol. The central piperidine ring provides stability, while the ethyl ester and ketone groups introduce reactivity. Recognizing these features helps anyone dealing with the molecule predict its solubility, reactivity, and compatibility. Conventional synthesis routes use functional group transformations, and the resulting compound displays compatibility in a wide range of conditions, solvent systems, and reactions. Its density comes in around 1.17 g/cm3, offering a practical reference point for weighing and formulation. This property isn't just an academic curiosity — I’ve handled materials across a range of densities, from light volatile solvents to dense crystalline bulk drugs, and knowing this value speeds up bench work.
In the warehouse or lab, Ethyl 4-Oxopiperidine-1-Carboxylate generally appears as an off-white to pale yellow crystalline solid or a free-flowing powder. It may sometimes present as pearl-like granules depending on the crystallization process. Each form influences processing steps. Powders allow for accurate dosing and dissolution, a blessing in multi-step synthesis. The crystalline and solid forms promote stable storage and easy sampling, reducing loss during transfers, which I’ve seen prevent unnecessary downtime. Flakes and pearls reduce dust, making them safer for large-scale handling, especially in facilities emphasizing occupational safety. This diversity doesn’t just reflect manufacturing quirks — it meets the needs of chemists focused on reliable, consistent performance.
Solubility defines how Ethyl 4-Oxopiperidine-1-Carboxylate enters and exits reaction vessels. It dissolves in most common organic solvents like dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and occasionally alcohols. Preparing a stable solution requires controlled addition and gentle agitation. In the lab, I’ve relied on these solutions to create smooth, uninterrupted flows through reaction steps, cutting down on time spent troubleshooting. Working with pure solvent systems, attention to precise measurement ensures consistency; deviations often mean downstream purification headaches. Knowing the compound's solubility helps avoid incomplete reactions or wasteful excess reagents.
Safety data sheets mark Ethyl 4-Oxopiperidine-1-Carboxylate as hazardous, based on its classification under chemical safety regulations. It may irritate skin, eyes, and respiratory passages. Gloves, goggles, and suitable lab coats reduce risks. Anyone who’s spilled strong chemicals knows how minor oversights can turn costly, and I’ve seen minor slips with less regulated compounds create both exposure and regulatory headaches. Material safety data labels usually recommend preparing and using the material under fume hoods or in well-ventilated spaces. Waste disposal must follow chemical regulatory standards — I’ve watched improper disposal end in expensive remediation. By practicing safe handling, teams promote health, protect the environment, and keep operations moving.
Pharmaceutical chemists and industrial manufacturers turn to Ethyl 4-Oxopiperidine-1-Carboxylate for its reliability as a building block. It enters reaction networks synthesizing complex piperidine derivatives, pivotal in treatments for neurological, cardiovascular, and infectious diseases. Its chemical reactivity, stemming from both its carbonyl and ester functions, speeds up product diversification without tedious protecting-group chemistry. The scale-up from gram to kilogram quantities reveals stable supply chains and minimal losses in purification, which translates into better cost control — I’ve managed projects where single-digit yield losses multiplied into budget overruns, highlighting the benefit of dependable intermediates like this one.
Long-term storage standards recommend airtight containers, kept cool and dry. Once opened, always reseal quickly; exposure to humid air can spoil purity and performance. Getting shipments tested for purity, appearance, and melting point on receipt saves headaches downstream. Specifications often require high purity (98% and above), clear spectroscopic signals, and defined loss on drying to support sensitive end-uses. Batch-to-batch consistency prevents interruptions in scaled-up drug or chemical manufacture — in my experience, strict adherence to these specifications has avoided supply chain disruptions that stall project timelines. Its HS Code typically falls within 2933399051, flagging it for customs as a specialty nitrogen-containing compound. Logistics teams appreciate this clarity, as mis-classified shipments cause customs delays and financial penalties.
Ethyl 4-Oxopiperidine-1-Carboxylate may not draw much attention outside chemical circles, but its role in promoting efficient, scalable synthesis shapes many pharmaceuticals and materials. Alternatives for hazardous solvents, process optimization to minimize waste, and proper recycling procedures all lower overall environmental impact. Years in chemical manufacturing taught me that budget and safety align best through persistent review — safer, greener processes lead to savings that don’t cut corners on quality. Maintaining dialogue between researchers, suppliers, and regulators moves the field forward, enhancing safety and efficiency.
