L(-)-Pipecolinic Acid BP EP USP Pharma Grade: Physical Characteristics and Description

What is L(-)-Pipecolinic Acid?

L(-)-Pipecolinic Acid is a non-proteinogenic amino acid, recognized both in science and industry for its role in pharmaceuticals and chemical synthesis. Its molecular formula is C6H11NO2, reflecting a structure that supports cyclic secondary amine functionality. This compound appears under several pharmacopeia standards, specifically the BP, EP, and USP grades, marking its suitability for regulated pharmaceutical applications. The HS Code for L(-)-Pipecolinic Acid can be tracked under 2933.59, which aligns with heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen heteroatoms. Professionals rely on accurate identification of physical and chemical characteristics to ensure safe handling, storage, and application, so properties like phase, morphology, and chemical stability matter deeply.

Physical Properties and Structure

The acid exhibits a solid state at standard room temperatures. Most often, it comes as fine, white to off-white crystalline powder, though some batches tend toward flaky or pearled shapes. This variety in solid form results from differences in crystallization during manufacture, commonly influenced by solvent or temperature manipulation. The density registers around 1.1 to 1.2 g/cm³. L(-)-Pipecolinic Acid demonstrates good solubility in water, with lower solubility in less polar solvents. In liquid form, the compound does not exist under typical processing or transport conditions, as heat stable properties help maintain a solid phase even when exposed to relatively high temperatures. Melting point measurements cluster around 298°C, further supporting ease of storage at ambient conditions and contributing to a long shelf life for raw materials.

Material, Molecular, and Chemical Characteristics

Chemically, the structure centers around a six-membered piperidine ring holding a carboxyl group on the carbon furthest from the nitrogen atom, shaping the molecule with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic portions. This makes the acid reactive in synthetic processes while remaining stable during transport. As with many raw materials in the pharma sector, the purity of L(-)-Pipecolinic Acid draws close scrutiny. For BP, EP, and USP pharma grades, purity typically exceeds 98%. Heavy metals, moisture content, and specific optical rotation fall within strict pharmacopeial limits, supporting batch-to-batch reproducibility. No measurable hazardous decomposition at temperatures below its melting point means handling risks decrease, but contact with strong oxidants or acids could initiate unpredictable reactivity. Manufacturers keep safety data sheets on hand to monitor for acute or chronic health risks, as the compound may cause mild irritation to skin or eyes without significant long-term harm documented in studies.

Specifications and Handling

Specifications for the pharmaceutical grade detail the allowable impurity profiles, melting range, identification via infrared spectroscopy, and rotating power. I’ve seen analytic teams carefully track loss on drying, as excessive moisture can signal subpar storage or early breakdown. Analytical methods like HPLC confirm content and homogeneity of the powder or crystalline form. Packaging uses moisture-resistant, inert material, often polyethylene liner inside composite drums. Bulk supply for the pharmaceutical industry keeps traceability intact using batch numbers and quality certification. Density and phase under controlled conditions make weighing and solution preparation predictable, allowing teams to standardize across regions.

Safety and Environmental Concerns

L(-)-Pipecolinic Acid holds a record of low acute toxicity in handled concentrations. Yet, repeated inhalation of dust or prolonged skin exposure calls for proper ventilation and personal protective equipment. The environmental impact depends on disposal practices. Water solubility does present a risk to waterways, if large-scale spills occur. Teams working with the compound in bulk storage employ spill kits, secondary containment, and up-to-date safety training. Regulatory bodies encourage prompt containment and clean-up if release happens. Waste disposal goes through legal chemical channels—incineration at approved sites, never simple flushing or landfill. Current data shows no serious long-term ecological footprint under regulated use, but environmental impacts remain a point of review in ongoing chemical safety evaluations.

Role in Raw Material Supply Chains

Manufacturers select L(-)-Pipecolinic Acid as a building block for drug synthesis and active intermediates, so its position as a raw material supports continuous drug innovation. Labs and production facilities benefit from its stability, as losses to degradation stay low. Supply chain managers run regular checks on vendor reliability and compliance with pharmacopeial grades. Strict documentation aids in auditing and troubleshooting, particularly in a licensed drug setting. High-purity acid keeps end product efficacy consistent, reducing risks of contamination or formulation drift. Long-term storage demands low humidity and stable, moderate temperatures, typical of chemical warehouses geared toward pharma intermediates.

Conclusion: Insights and Future Directions

L(-)-Pipecolinic Acid BP EP USP pharma grade stands out for consistent structure, versatility, and low handling risk. By focusing on maintaining purity, managing physical state, and following robust safety measures, users get a reliable ingredient for pharmaceutical synthesis and research. Monitoring ongoing developments in chemical safety and environmentally responsible manufacturing could drive further improvements. By integrating quality assurance with regulatory compliance, supply chains keep essential materials like L(-)-Pipecolinic Acid both safe and effective for tomorrow’s therapeutics.