Methyl 3-Aminopyrazinecarboxylate comes up often in discussions around research chemicals and fine chemical synthesis. Behind the lengthy name lies a small, studied molecule with a molecular formula of C6H7N3O2. You can spot this compound in a wide range of applications, but most folks in the field remember it for its powdered, crystalline look, usually appearing as pale, off-white flakes. Unlike some large molecules, this one fits easily in a small beaker, with a molecular weight of about 153.14 g/mol. Scientists and chemists use it routinely for synthesizing complex pyrazine-based pharmaceuticals, agrochemical intermediates, and research reagents.
On a typical day in the lab, Methyl 3-Aminopyrazinecarboxylate presents itself as a solid material, forming crystals or powder depending on synthesis and processing. These solids often land on the lighter side of the density scale, commonly measured around 1.42 g/cm³ in standard conditions. The molecular structure stands out for its fused aromatic pyrazine ring joined with an ester (methyl group) and an amino substituent. This arrangement catches attention in synthetic circles since it opens up a range of possibilities for further modifications. Melting points hover around 120 to 125 degrees Celsius, which helps determine storage and handling conditions. Slight solubility in water limits direct aqueous use, but many organic solvents—like ethanol, methanol, and ethyl acetate—handle this compound just fine, making for convenient reaction setups and purifications.
For anyone sourcing raw materials, Methyl 3-Aminopyrazinecarboxylate falls under HS Code 29339900, which covers heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atom(s) only. Bulk shipments usually come in tightly sealed drums or bottles, safeguarded from moisture and sunlight. Purity grades typically hit ≥98% when ordered for research or industrial use. Each batch ships with a detailed Certificate of Analysis, outlining melting point, appearance, purity by HPLC, and residual solvent content. While some suppliers provide this chemical as free-flowing powder, crystalline pearls, or even micro-flakes, the form delivers the same core functionality for synthesis or further derivatization.
With chemicals like Methyl 3-Aminopyrazinecarboxylate, it’s never wise to relax on safe handling procedures. Workers need gloves and protective eyewear—accidental skin or eye contact can irritate, and dust inhalation needs to be limited. The compound is not broadly categorized among the most hazardous materials, but several studies indicate mild to moderate acute toxicity if ingested in significant quantities. Cleaning up spills quickly with inert absorbents and storing away from strong oxidizers helps keep labs and workers secure. Standard protocols recommend well-ventilated storage at ambient temperature to avoid breakdown or unwanted reactions. The solid does not display rapid decomposition, and it remains stable across typical handling conditions, but trace moisture and light sometimes degrade sample purity over long periods, so good packaging means long shelf life.
This molecule earns its spot in the lineup because pyrazine scaffolds play a role in drug design, agricultural products, and specialty dyes. Methyl 3-Aminopyrazinecarboxylate serves as a building block for synthesizing antifungal, antibacterial, and anticancer compounds. Even in complex material science, small modifications of the aromatic ring system can yield new electronic or photonic behaviors. From my own experience in university labs, having a reliable supply on the shelf can mean the difference between a week of productive research and a week of delays. When regulations tighten, labs keep this chemical in mind for innovative, lower-toxicity transformations that avoid the harsher agents seen in older protocols.
Research into greener synthesis methods now looks at how to make Methyl 3-Aminopyrazinecarboxylate with fewer waste byproducts and lower energy inputs. Alternative raw materials derived from bio-based pyrazine derivatives show promise for sustainable manufacturing at scale. Labs increasingly use closed system reaction vessels to reduce exposure risk and environmental impact. Manufacturers encourage recycling solvent streams and recovering extracted or crystallized product, both to cut costs and to remain compliant with evolving environmental law. Community guidelines, open-access protocols, and careful review of toxicity data—including long-term exposure limits—form part of the responsible toolkit. The next step likely involves digital tracking of lots and batches, ensuring all shipments meet rigorous consistency and safety criteria. This drives not only lab safety but also confidence for end users working on mission-critical synthesis tasks.
