Ensuring the purity and accurate structural identification of chemical intermediates like 2-Fluoroethanol (CAS: 371-62-0) is fundamental to reliable research and manufacturing processes. A battery of spectroscopic techniques is employed to meticulously characterize this compound, providing essential quality control measures. These methods confirm its identity, assess its purity, and detect any potential impurities.

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is a cornerstone in the characterization of 2-Fluoroethanol. Proton (¹H) NMR reveals the expected signals from the methylene (-CH₂-) and hydroxyl (-OH) groups, with their chemical shifts and splitting patterns providing insights into their electronic environment. Crucially, ¹³C NMR helps elucidate the carbon backbone, while ¹⁹F NMR offers highly sensitive detection and characterization of the fluorine atom, confirming its presence and local environment. The distinct chemical shifts and coupling patterns in ¹⁹F NMR are vital for identifying fluorinated compounds and monitoring reactions involving them.

Infrared (IR) spectroscopy provides complementary information by identifying functional groups. For 2-Fluoroethanol, characteristic absorption bands are expected for the O-H stretch (broad, ~3200-3600 cm⁻¹) and C-F stretch (strong, ~1000-1100 cm⁻¹). These signatures help confirm the presence of the alcohol moiety and the fluorinated carbon atom.

Mass Spectrometry (MS) is employed to determine the molecular weight and elemental composition. The mass spectrum of 2-Fluoroethanol will show a molecular ion peak, along with characteristic isotopic patterns due to the presence of chlorine atoms. Fragmentation patterns further aid in structural confirmation. Coupled with chromatographic techniques like Gas Chromatography (GC), GC-MS is particularly effective for assessing the purity of volatile compounds like 2-Fluoroethanol, allowing for the separation and quantification of trace impurities.

These rigorous analytical methods ensure that 2-Fluoroethanol meets the high standards required for its use as a chemical intermediate in demanding synthetic applications. Manufacturers and researchers rely on these spectroscopic fingerprints to guarantee the quality and consistency of the material.