2-Bromohexadecanoic acid (CAS No. 18263-25-7) is a specialized organic compound that belongs to the class of brominated fatty acids. Owing to its unique chemical structure and reactivity, this compound is widely used in research, pharmaceutical development, and specialty chemical synthesis. Its long hydrocarbon chain combined with a bromine substituent makes it particularly valuable as an intermediate in advanced chemical applications.
Chemical Name: 2-Bromohexadecanoic Acid
CAS Number: 18263-25-7
Molecular Formula: C₁₆H₃₁BrO₂
Molecular Weight: ~335.32 g/mol
Chemical Class: Brominated fatty acid
The presence of a bromine atom at the alpha (2-) position enhances the compound’s reactivity, allowing it to participate in a variety of substitution and coupling reactions.
2-Bromohexadecanoic acid exhibits properties typical of long-chain fatty acids, with added chemical versatility due to bromination:
Appears as a solid or semi-solid depending on purity and temperature
Low solubility in water, but good solubility in organic solvents
High thermal stability due to its long alkyl chain
Reactive alpha-bromine group suitable for further chemical modification
These characteristics make it useful for controlled synthesis processes and laboratory research.
This compound is widely used as an intermediate in organic synthesis. The bromine atom enables nucleophilic substitution reactions, allowing chemists to introduce functional groups efficiently.
In research settings, 2-bromohexadecanoic acid is used in the development of biologically active molecules and lipid-related studies, supporting drug discovery and biochemical research.
It plays a role in producing specialty chemicals, surfactants, and modified fatty acid derivatives used in industrial and research applications.
Universities and research laboratories utilize this compound to study fatty acid metabolism, lipid modification, and reaction mechanisms involving halogenated compounds.
As with most brominated organic compounds, proper handling is essential:
Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
Store in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture
Handle in well-ventilated laboratory environments
Follow safety data sheet (SDS) guidelines strictly
Responsible handling ensures safe and effective use in research and industrial settings.
The importance of 2-bromohexadecanoic acid (18263-25-7) lies in its dual nature as both a fatty acid and a reactive halogenated compound. This combination offers chemists flexibility in designing complex molecules, making it a valuable building block in advanced chemical synthesis.
2-Bromohexadecanoic acid is a significant compound in modern chemical research and synthesis. With its unique structure, reliable reactivity, and broad range of applications, it continues to play an important role in pharmaceuticals, specialty chemicals, and academic research.
For laboratories and industries seeking high-purity chemical intermediates, 18263-25-7 (2-Bromohexadecanoic Acid) remains a dependable and versatile choice.
