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If you’re sourcing intermediates for pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, or specialty chemicals, **2-methylpentanoic acid** (C₆H₁₂O₂, CAS 97-61-0) likely sits on your radar. This branched-chain carboxylic acid isn’t just another entry in the catalog—it’s a workhorse in organic synthesis.
Let’s explore why manufacturers across industries rely on its unique properties and how to ensure you’re getting a grade that meets your needs.
2-Methylpentanoic acid, also known as α-methylpentanoic acid, is a branched chain carboxylic acid.
Imagine, in a five-carbon atom “main chain”, the second carbon atom hangs a methyl “small pendant”, this structure gives it unique chemical properties, so that it has become a lot of industrial applications in the “meat and potatoes”.
Key Chemical Properties
Physical State and Appearance: At room temperature, it is usually a clear, transparent or slightly yellowish liquid.
Melting and Boiling Point: Melting point is as low as -85°C and boiling point is between 196-197°C (literature values).
Solubility: “mingles” with water and polar organic solvents, adapting to a wide range of reaction conditions.
Stability: stable in daily storage conditions, but may require special care in certain “aggressive” environments.
With its compact structure—**CH₃CH(CH₃)CH₂CH₂COOH**—this six-carbon acid packs versatility. Its branching at the second carbon gives it distinct advantages over straight-chain counterparts:
– **Enhanced solubility** in organic solvents like THF and ethyl acetate
– **Lower melting point** (typically liquid at room temperature) for easier handling
– **Improved stability** under acidic conditions compared to linear isomers
These traits make it a favorite for reactions requiring precise control, such as esterifications and catalytic couplings.
Where You’ll Find It in Action
1、Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
In drug development, 2-methylpentanoic acid plays several critical roles:
– **Antibiotic side chains**: Used to synthesize cephalosporin derivatives with improved bioavailability
– **Prodrug synthesis**: Modifies antiviral agents to enhance cellular uptake
– **Chiral building blocks**: Serves as a precursor for enantiomerically pure compounds (e.g., via enzymatic resolution)
A 2023 study in *Organic Process Research & Development* highlighted its use in streamlining the synthesis of a late-stage HIV protease inhibitor, cutting production steps by 30%.
2、Industrial Applications
Beyond pharma, this intermediate shines in:
– **Lubricant additives**: Forms esters with neopentyl glycol for high-temperature stability
– **Flavor compounds**: Key raw material for isoamyl acetate (think banana and pear fragrances)
– **Polymer modifiers**: Acts as a plasticizer in PVC formulations to prevent brittleness
While synthesis routes vary, most commercial production uses one of three methods:
Method 1: Oxidation of 2-Methyl-1-Pentanol
– Process: React with potassium permanganate (KMnO₄) in acidic conditions
– Yield: ~75-80%
– Trade-offs: Affordable but generates manganese dioxide waste
Method 2: Hydrocarboxylation
– Process: Catalytic insertion of CO into 3-methyl-1-pentene using rhodium complexes
– Yield: Up to 85%
– Trade-offs: Higher purity but requires pressure reactors
Method 3: Fermentation
– Process: Engineered *E. coli* strains convert glucose via β-oxidation pathways
– Yield: Over 90% in lab settings
– Trade-offs: Eco-friendly but slower to scale
Not all 2-methylpentanoic acid is created equal. Here’s what separates GMP-grade material from commodity stock:
Parameter | Acceptable Range | Test Method |
Purity | ≥99.0% | GC-FID |
Water Content | <0.2% | Karl Fischer |
Color | ≤20 APHA | Platinum-Cobalt Scale |
Isomer Impurities | <0.5% total | HPLC-UV |
Watch out for suppliers who skip these critical tests—impurities as low as 1% can derail sensitive reactions.
Three trends are reshaping demand:
Before placing an order, clarify these points:
– **Scale flexibility**: From R&D samples (100g) to full metric-ton batches
– **Documentation ready**: DMFs, ASMFs, and CEPs available upon request
– **Sustainability commitment**: 92% solvent recovery rate via closed-loop systems
Ready to discuss your needs? Get in touch for samples or technical specs.
– Versatile intermediate with pharma and industrial applications
– Quality hinges on purity (>99%) and isomer control
– Market leaning toward sustainable production methods
– Supplier due diligence prevents costly production issues
This 2-methylpentanoic acid (CAS 97-61-0) is supplied exclusively as synthetic intermediate under strict regulatory oversight.
Key compliance requirements:
Absolute Prohibition：Never for direct human/animal use；Banned in cosmetics, food additives, or medical applications
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