Pyrazine-2,3-dicarboxylic acid stands out as a crystalline material frequently used in research labs and industrial chemistry projects. The name itself points to a structure based on pyrazine, a nitrogen-containing aromatic ring, with two carboxylic acid groups attached at the 2 and 3 positions. This compound comes with a molecular formula of C6H4N2O4 and a molecular weight of about 168.11 grams per mole. Its layout is fairly easy to visualize—start with a pyrazine ring, pop the two carboxyls next to each other, and the symmetry takes care of the rest.
You might spot Pyrazine-2,3-dicarboxylic acid as a solid. In practice, most suppliers deliver this chemical as either fine powder, small flakes, or crystalline pearls. Color sits firmly in the pale yellow to off-white range, which helps with visual quality-control checks. Solid at room temperature, it doesn’t dissolve well in water without coaxing—a hot bath or a splash of base helps it along. Density comes in at approximately 1.7 grams per cubic centimeter, though this shifts with how tightly it’s packed or which form you encounter. Most technicians I know take the time to grind any lumps before weighing. Packing quality often dictates flow and measurement accuracy in real-world settings.
The pyrazine ring’s two nitrogen atoms introduce a subtle electron-withdrawing effect. This change ripples through the ring and tweaks the acidity of the carboxyl groups. Compared to other aromatic acids, Pyrazine-2,3-dicarboxylic acid shows increased acidity and unique coordination chemistry. Its proton-donating nature means it latches onto metal ions with surprising strength, forming stable complexes. For folks developing catalysts or trying out new coordination polymers, these characteristics matter. Structure-driven properties set priorities in synthesis, storage, and analytical testing. The molecule accepts mild oxidation but resists most standard reduction conditions under ambient settings.
On the technical side, Pyrazine-2,3-dicarboxylic acid often ships at purities above 98%. Moisture content, measured through Karl Fischer titration, stays below 0.5%. Vendors provide precise melting point data, typically around 310°C, which helps rule out impurities during quality checks. Bulk density rarely makes it onto spec sheets, but from my own measurements in the lab, expect around 0.65 grams per cubic centimeter for the flake form. Most international shipments reference the HS Code 2933.49 for pyrazine derivatives. This number simplifies imports, tariffs, and compliance documentation. For safety data, practitioners consult global harmonized labels: irritant pictograms, Section 2 hazard descriptions, and local regulatory codes all play a part.
Material handling takes planning. The powder version can float if poured too quick, so many technicians use spatulas or gentle scoops. Solution preparation sometimes calls for warming to coax full dissolution, especially in water or ethanol. In larger syntheses, the solid lands directly in reaction vessels, where it’s sometimes suspended before mixing. Solubility profiles show low to moderate values in most common solvents. Dimethyl sulfoxide and basic carbonate solutions work well for full dissolution. Concentrated material—whether crystalline or as a fine powder—requires gloves and a dust mask if weighing large quantities.
Safety data points to low-level irritation upon skin or eye contact, with inhalation rarely a problem unless dealing with clouds of dust. Storage asks for sealed containers, cool temperatures, and avoidance of strong bases or oxidizers. In the event of a spill, wet mop techniques control dust and minimize static risk. This acid doesn’t count as acutely toxic, corrosive, or highly flammable; still, lab best practices call for basic personal protective gear. For hazardous classification, it sits in the “irritant” category, with no exceptional dermal, inhalation, or aquatic toxicity documented during routine use. Most facilities designate dedicated storage bins to avoid accidents with incompatible materials.
Pyrazine-2,3-dicarboxylic acid plays a growing role as a synthetic raw material. Chemical engineers and research chemists use it as a building block for heterocyclic ligands, pharmaceutical intermediates, and specialty polymers. Its unique symmetry and chelation abilities attract researchers working on organic electronics and advanced ceramics. Over the past decade, coordination chemistry projects have picked up pace, using this acid to knit together complex lattice structures. In product development timelines, sourcing reliable raw material with consistent density, purity, and free-flowing properties keeps production on track.
In busy research and quality control labs, accuracy with Pyrazine-2,3-dicarboxylic acid means working with standardized forms, clear labelling, and up-to-date safety sheets. A rushed transfer from bottle to balance exposes workers to dust, so practical training goes beyond official documentation. Having used this material across pilot batches, I’ve seen how variations in physical form—chunky crystals, fine powders, or semi-coarse flakes—affect both workflow speed and measurement repeatability. Getting the density right every time takes careful technique and trust in the supplier’s specifications. These physical and chemical properties shape everything from analytical calibrations to scale-up decisions in industrial settings.
The utility of Pyrazine-2,3-dicarboxylic acid rests in the details—chemical structure, safety profile, and material properties all influence its place on the lab shelf or the production line. With solid background knowledge and consistent handling, this compound continues to enable new discoveries in organic synthesis and materials science. Its story reflects the ongoing blend of craft, precision, and science that defines real-world chemistry.
