Thiophene-3-Ethanol is a compound known for its unique chemical backbone and broad utility in both laboratory research and manufacturing. The molecular structure pairs the thiophene ring—a five-membered heterocycle containing sulfur at position 1—with a two-carbon ethanol group attached at the third position of the ring. This arrangement gives the substance a molecular formula of C6H8OS and a molecular weight of approximately 128.19 g/mol. The presence of the sulfur atom and the primary alcohol group shapes both its reactivity and its special performance in chemical syntheses.
A closer look at the physical state of Thiophene-3-Ethanol reveals options: This chemical is often available as a pale-yellow to colorless liquid at room temperature, thanks to its moderate boiling point, which hovers around 230-233°C under ambient pressure. Density measurements routinely fall around 1.145 g/cm³ at 25°C, making it heavier than water but still fluid enough for easy transfer in glassware or in process equipment. Purity in commercial samples exceeds 98% in most reputable supply chains, supporting both reproducibility and reliability for end-users. Its distinct, lightly aromatic odor arises from the thiophene nucleus, a signature feature that chemists immediately recognize. While technically it can be supplied in crystalline or powder form under chilled storage, its liquid phase facilitates straightforward integration into multistep syntheses.
Structurally, the thiophene ring’s aromatic system provides resonance stabilization, which can direct how this compound behaves in Grignard-type additions or other nucleophilic reactions. The ethanol chain at the third position gives ready access for functional group modification, esterification, or oxidation, boosting its usefulness as a raw material in organic building block applications. Reliable analysis confirms the HS Code as 2934999099, placing it in the realm of heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atoms but not restricted solely to nitrogen. Quality control standards demand clear specification sheets that communicate not only purity but also color, refractive index (around 1.537), and water content, which must remain below 0.5% for high-performance outcomes.
Chemists and chemical engineers find Thiophene-3-Ethanol especially attractive due to this compound’s balanced mix of reactive and stable characteristics. The ethanol group, while mild in its own right, acts as a handle to attach, modify, or extend molecular frameworks—qualities that serve well in the pharmaceutical, materials science, and agrochemical sectors. I’ve seen this material used as a controlled intermediate in the synthesis of biologically active compounds because its ring structure can mimic natural molecules, while its alcohol functionality serves as a launching point for more elaborate chemical modifications. The relevance to electrical materials research grows from its use as a dopant or precursor in organic electronic materials, stretching into applications that demand both conductivity and molecular integrity.
Thiophene-3-Ethanol reaches labs and factories in tightly sealed glass or high-density polyethylene containers, strong enough to withstand minor knocks while limiting contamination. Liquid form rules in most distribution, though some suppliers convert it to crystalline or powder form under nitrogen for storage stability. Solidified product can appear as colorless to faintly yellow flakes or pearls, depending on purification method. Volume supply up to several liters supports pilot and full-scale processes. For those scaling up, safety data sheets advise against prolonged inhalation or skin contact, since the compound can pose mild toxicity upon significant exposure.
The measured density sits just above water’s, facilitating layering when combined in certain organic-aqueous extraction routines. Solubility offers flexibility, as Thiophene-3-Ethanol blends well with organic solvents—ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, and ethanol itself stand out for their compatibility. Water solubility stays limited, so aqueous waste management must take care to capture and treat organic fractions, particularly if the volume or frequency of use grows.
Chemical safety remains a key consideration each time Thiophene-3-Ethanol enters the workspace. While this substance does not rank among the most acutely hazardous in its class, I’ve found that standard laboratory gloves and eye protection are a must. The compound carries risk of eye and skin irritation; in high doses or prolonged procedures, its vapor could aggravate airways. Classified as a flammable liquid for shipping, it needs storage away from heat and oxidizing substances. Spills demand prompt cleanup with absorbent pads and proper ventilation, as uncontrolled releases into drains or soil risk local water contamination and long-term persistence given its stable thiophene ring system.
Production of Thiophene-3-Ethanol requires strict adherence to process controls, whether the feedstock is a petrochemical-derived thiophene core or biomass-based alternatives. Reliable sources provide spectroscopy (NMR, IR) and chromatography data for every batch, confirming identity and purity at scale. From a risk-reduction standpoint, enterprises benefit from supplier certification (ISO 9001 or comparable) to lock in traceability and reduce the chance of hazardous impurities. Downstream users in pharmaceutical development often impose further purification or analytical requirements, and I’ve observed that investing in top-tier starting material minimizes both waste and time spent on troubleshooting synthetic problems.
Thiophene-3-Ethanol under the HS Code 2934999099 falls within the global regulatory framework for specialized organic chemicals. Movement across borders calls for updated safety documentation, certificates of origin, and compliance with both REACH and local chemical inventory systems. Its niche market supports a healthy supply chain, but pricing can see surges during global disruptions in chemical feedstocks or logistics. Manufacturing in line with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) not only supports compliance but enhances customer confidence, especially in industries facing FDA or EMA review.
Handling and disposal raise environmental and workplace safety questions that need real answers. Small- and medium-scale users sometimes overlook waste minimization, but adopting solvent recovery systems and on-site neutralization processes can prevent routine discharges and cut costs. The thiophene group’s stability encourages recycling or repurposing waste streams for lower-grade applications. Investing in staff training on both chemical handling and emergency response remains one of the most effective risk management moves any team can make. For those seeking to reduce hazardous exposure, advances in encapsulated formulations or solvent-free synthetic methods hold promise for the near future.
In short, Thiophene-3-Ethanol stands out for its distinctive molecular structure, suitability as a raw material, and reliable physical properties, from measured density to functional groups. The balance of performance, safety needs, and environmental impacts calls for attention at every point of the supply chain. Experience with this substance shows strong potential for further technological applications, provided that quality sourcing, waste management, and safety culture move forward together. Informed handling and forward-looking research not only address immediate user needs, but they also support longer-term innovation and compliance in a rapidly evolving chemical landscape.
