6939-23-7 (2-(tert-Butylamino)acetic acid hydrochloride): Chemical Profile, Key Applications, and Industrial Value

2-(tert-Butylamino)acetic acid hydrochloride (CAS 6939-23-7) is an important organic intermediate widely recognized for its role in pharmaceutical synthesis, fine chemical manufacturing, and biochemical research. With a unique molecular structure that combines an amino acid backbone with a tert-butyl substituted amine, this compound offers exceptional versatility and reactivity, making it a preferred ingredient for developing high-value specialty compounds.


What is 2-(tert-Butylamino)acetic Acid Hydrochloride?

2-(tert-Butylamino)acetic acid hydrochloride is a hydrochloride salt of a substituted glycine derivative. This modification enhances the compound’s solubility, stability, and handling characteristics, making it suitable for industrial-scale applications.

Chemical Identifiers

  • CAS Number: 6939-23-7

  • Chemical Name: 2-(tert-Butylamino)acetic acid hydrochloride

  • Molecular Formula: C6H14ClNO2

  • Functional Class: Organic intermediate / Amino acid derivative


Chemical Properties

This compound is valued for its structural features and reactivity profile.

Key Characteristics

  • Stable HCl salt, improving shelf life and storage

  • High solubility in water and polar solvents

  • Contains both amine and carboxylic groups, enabling diverse transformations

  • Useful precursor for synthesizing modified amino acids and peptide intermediates

The tert-butyl group provides steric modulation, allowing controlled reactivity during synthesis.


Key Applications of 6939-23-7

1. Pharmaceutical Intermediates

One of the most significant uses of 2-(tert-Butylamino)acetic acid hydrochloride is in the pharmaceutical industry. It serves as:

  • A precursor for drug candidates

  • A starting material for API intermediates

  • A component in the synthesis of bioactive molecules

Its functional groups support peptide coupling, amide bond formation, and structural modifications essential in medicinal chemistry.


2. Fine Chemical Synthesis

In fine chemical manufacturing, this compound is utilized for:

  • Producing novel amino acid derivatives

  • Synthesis of specialty reagents

  • Creating molecular scaffolds for research compounds

The protective nature of the tert-butyl group allows selective transformations without unwanted side reactions.


3. Biochemical and Laboratory Research

Researchers use this compound in:

  • Structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies

  • Development of enzyme substrates and inhibitors

  • Preparation of complex organic molecules

Its dual functional groups make it a valuable tool for investigating chemical pathways and designing molecular prototypes.


Industrial Value

The rising demand for custom pharmaceuticals and specialty organic intermediates has made CAS 6939-23-7 increasingly valuable in the global chemical market.

Why It Is Industry-Relevant

  • High versatility in synthetic pathways

  • Consistency in industrial-scale production

  • Compatibility with modern organic synthesis techniques

  • Cost-effective building block for high-value compounds

Manufacturers and R&D organizations rely on this compound because it simplifies multi-step reactions and enhances process efficiency.


Safety, Storage, and Handling

Although stable, the compound should be handled with standard laboratory precautions:

  • Avoid contact with moisture

  • Use PPE (gloves, eye protection, lab coat)

  • Store in a cool, dry place

  • Follow supplier MSDS guidelines for detailed safety procedures


Conclusion

2-(tert-Butylamino)acetic acid hydrochloride (CAS 6939-23-7) plays a pivotal role in pharmaceutical development, fine chemical synthesis, and advanced research. Its unique structural features—combining a substituted amine with an amino acid framework—make it an indispensable intermediate in modern chemical industries. As the market for complex organic molecules continues to expand, this compound remains central to innovation and high-performance synthesis.