Tert-Butyl Bromoacetate: Detailed Commentary on Properties, Structure, and Precautions

What is Tert-Butyl Bromoacetate?

Tert-Butyl Bromoacetate attracts a lot of attention in the world of organic synthesis. A colorless to pale yellow liquid or solid, it flows between roles as a specialty chemical and a fundamental raw material for pharmaceutical and fine chemical companies. Molecular formula C₆H₁₁BrO₂ gives a molar mass of 211.06 g/mol. Chemists value its bromoacetate structure: a bromo (Br) substituent attached to an acetate core, with a bulky tert-butyl group offering some steric protection. The presence of that tert-butyl group helps direct many synthetic transformations with exquisite selectivity.

Physical Characteristics and Properties

Looking at Tert-Butyl Bromoacetate on the bench, you might spot it as a viscous liquid or see it arriving as crystalline solid, depending on storage temperature. Its melting point sits between 24-26 °C, so in most labs at room temperature, it will hover right at the edge of solidifying. The boiling point often registers near 145-149 °C at reduced pressure, letting specialists use it in processes involving temperature or distillation. Specific density clocks in around 1.24 g/cm³ at 25 °C, notably heavier than water. Its refractive index, an important optical property for purifying or checking identity, reads close to 1.443. While you can find it referred to as “flakes” or “pearls,” the form doesn’t change the core handling rules. Tert-Butyl Bromoacetate remains soluble in many organic solvents—dichloromethane, chloroform, and similar choices offer the best mixability in the lab.

Chemical Structure and Key Specifications

Examining structure as a molecule, it’s easy to see the tert-butyl group shielding the ester functionality, while the bromine atom sits perfectly positioned for nucleophilic substitution. This versatility helps explain the broad application: the bromo group brings high reactivity in carbon–carbon bond formation, selective alkylations, and the construction of complex molecules. You often find specifications listing purity above 98%, as even trace byproducts can interfere with downstream reactions. Professional suppliers follow international shipping regulations, assigning the 8-digit Harmonized System Code (HS Code) 29153900, which signals its identity and ensures global traceability.

Safe Handling and Hazards

It’s one thing to understand Tert-Butyl Bromoacetate’s use, but personal experience reinforces why safe handling must always take priority. This compound harms skin, eyes, and respiratory tracts—direct contact causes real discomfort, and inhalation or swallowing can prompt dangerous systemic effects. Managing Tert-Butyl Bromoacetate means operating fume hoods, wearing gloves, chemical goggles, and splash-resistant clothing. Spills demand fast action, as liquid escapes containment quickly. Ventilation makes a major difference, since the fumes linger, especially during weighing or transfer. Most modern safety data sheets (SDS) highlight swift washing on contact and call for medical attention in case of ingestion.

Environmental and Storage Considerations

Tert-Butyl Bromoacetate does not belong in the drain or general trash. Environmental persistence, toxicity to aquatic organisms, and regulatory requirements mean it demands careful disposal in sealed containers through approved hazardous waste channels. Long-term storage works best in tightly closed amber bottles, sheltered from light and moisture. Storing in cool, dry areas slows any degradation and limits the risk of accidental spills from temperature swings. Having seen accidents stemming from overlooked lids, I always double-check seals before moving chemical bottles—prevention keeps chemical inventories safe and limits unexpected exposure.

Role in Chemical Synthesis and Industry

In hands-on synthesis, this compound transforms peptide sequences, installs protected glycine units, and drives efficient alkylations. Industrial chemists cite it as essential for creating pharmaceutical intermediates, crop protection agents, and specialty polymers. Its ready reactivity stems from the electron-withdrawing bromine; whether scaling reactions up or tuning selectivity, Tert-Butyl Bromoacetate supports research progress. Many professionals look for consistent batch quality and on-demand supply. A reliable analysis assesses color, melting point, and impurity profile alongside GC or NMR results.

Practical Solutions and Best Practices

Investing in good training and well-marked laboratory areas keeps risk under control. Clear containers with proper labeling, up-to-date inventory records, and regular review of safety data sheets build a culture of caution. Experienced users encourage running small-scale trials and keeping spill kits at arm’s reach—emergency showers and eyewash stations stand by for those rare mishaps. Lab communities share the responsibility for maintaining safe and productive environments, treating both raw material and reagent-grade chemical with respect. Ongoing awareness makes for smarter workflows, reduces chemical waste, and ensures Tert-Butyl Bromoacetate remains a valuable tool, not a hidden danger, in scientific discovery.