(R)-3-Hydroxydecanoic acid(CAS: 19525-80-5)

(R)-3-Hydroxydecanoic acid is a white crystalline solid with a molecular weight of approximately 200.33 g/mol. It has a pKa of around 5.4 and is slightly soluble in water. Chemically, it is stable under normal conditions but may degrade under acidic or basic conditions. It is reactive towards carboxylic acid derivatives and can be used in esterification reactions.

(R)-3-Hydroxydecanoic acid can be synthesized via the reduction of (R)-3-keto-decanoic acid using lithium aluminum hydride (LAH) as a catalyst. The process yields a high purity product with good selectivity. The reaction is conducted in a solvent like tetrahydrofuran (THF) under anhydrous conditions to achieve high yield and purity.

(R)-3-Hydroxydecanoic acid is used in the pharmaceutical industry for the synthesis of certain drug intermediates. It is also utilized in the production of polymers, particularly in the development of biodegradable materials. Additionally, it has applications in the food industry as a flavor enhancer and in the production of sensors for detecting specific molecules.

When handling (R)-3-Hydroxydecanoic acid, it is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves and goggles. The compound should be stored in a cool, dry place away from heat sources. In case of a spill, it should be cleaned up with absorbent materials and disposed of according to local hazardous waste regulations. Always consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for detailed handling and disposal procedures.