For professionals in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries, detailed knowledge of raw material specifications is non-negotiable. N6-Cbz-L-Lysine (CAS 1155-64-2) is a key amino acid derivative, and understanding its properties is crucial for effective procurement and application. This guide provides an in-depth look at its characteristics, helping procurement managers and R&D scientists make informed decisions when they need to buy this vital compound.

Chemical Identity and Specifications

N6-Cbz-L-Lysine is chemically known as N6-benzyloxycarbonyl-L-lysine. Its molecular formula is C14H20N2O4, and it has a molecular weight of 280.32. A significant indicator of its quality is its appearance: a white to off-white crystalline powder. This physical form is consistent across reputable manufacturers and is often a first visual check for purity. The CAS number 1155-64-2 and EINECS number 214-585-7 uniquely identify this compound in global chemical databases. When sourcing, always verify these identifiers.

Key Physical Properties for Practical Use

Beyond appearance, several physical properties are important for practical handling and application. The melting point of N6-Cbz-L-Lysine is notably high, typically around 259 °C with decomposition. This high melting point signifies its stable crystalline structure. Density is approximately 1.1429 g/cm³, though this can be an estimated value. For applications requiring precise formulation, understanding these parameters from a trusted supplier is essential. The solubility characteristics, often described as insoluble in common organic solvents but soluble in basic aqueous solutions, also dictate how it can be best utilized in various reaction media.

Purity: The Cornerstone of Quality

The most critical specification for N6-Cbz-L-Lysine is its purity. For use in sensitive applications like peptide synthesis and pharmaceutical intermediate production, a minimum purity of 98.0% is standard. Manufacturers often provide detailed Certificates of Analysis (CoA) that specify the assay results obtained through methods like High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Procurement managers should always request and scrutinize these CoAs to ensure they meet the required standards. Sourcing from manufacturers who can consistently deliver high-purity material, such as those operating in China, is vital for the success of downstream processes.

Applications Demanding High Purity

The primary application of N6-Cbz-L-Lysine is as a protected amino acid in peptide synthesis. The carbobenzyloxy (Cbz) group protects the epsilon-amino group of lysine, enabling controlled peptide chain elongation. This is indispensable for creating complex therapeutic peptides. Furthermore, it serves as a versatile intermediate in the synthesis of various pharmaceutical compounds, where lysine residues need to be integrated into larger molecular structures. For these demanding applications, the cost of N6-Cbz-L-Lysine is often justified by the higher yields and purity of the final products achieved when using a superior quality starting material.

Finding Reliable Suppliers and Pricing

When you need to purchase N6-Cbz-L-Lysine, seeking out manufacturers and suppliers who emphasize quality control and offer competitive pricing is paramount. Many international companies find value in sourcing from China, where a robust chemical manufacturing infrastructure exists. When making an inquiry, it's beneficial to ask about minimum order quantities, packaging options (e.g., 25kg drums), and lead times. Understanding the price of N6-Cbz-L-Lysine per kilogram or ton can help in budgeting for large-scale projects.

In summary, N6-Cbz-L-Lysine is a compound defined by its specific chemical identity, physical properties, and stringent purity requirements. By thoroughly understanding these aspects and partnering with reliable manufacturers, professionals can ensure they are obtaining the highest quality material for their critical research and production needs.