In the world of chemistry, precise identification of substances is paramount for research, development, and safety. The Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) Registry Number, commonly known as the CAS Number, serves as a unique and universal identifier for chemical substances. For professionals involved in procuring chemicals, understanding the significance of CAS numbers is crucial for ensuring accuracy, avoiding confusion, and maintaining safety protocols. This is especially true when dealing with specialized compounds like pharmaceutical intermediates.

A CAS Number is a numeric string assigned to a specific chemical substance. It consists of three parts separated by hyphens: the first two or three digits, a hyphen, two digits in the middle, a hyphen, and finally, a check digit. For example, the CAS Number for (R)-tert-butyl 4-(hydroxymethyl)-2,2-dimethyloxazolidine-3-carboxylate is 108149-63-9. This number is indispensable for scientists and procurement specialists to unequivocally identify a particular chemical, regardless of its common names, synonyms, or brand names. This universal language ensures that when you buy a specific compound, you receive exactly what you intend to.

The utility of CAS numbers extends beyond simple identification. They are critical for regulatory compliance, hazard communication, and inventory management. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) invariably list the CAS number, allowing users to quickly access crucial safety information. When searching for specific chemicals from a supplier or manufacturer, using the CAS number in your search query guarantees that you are looking at the correct product. This is particularly important when multiple compounds might share similar names or structures.

For instance, when sourcing pharmaceutical intermediates, accuracy is paramount. Misidentification can lead to incorrect synthesis pathways, wasted resources, and potentially hazardous outcomes. Therefore, always confirm the CAS number provided by your manufacturer aligns with your requirements. If you are inquiring about a specific intermediate, stating its CAS number along with your request for a quote or product details ensures clear communication.

In essence, CAS numbers are the backbone of chemical identification and traceability. Whether you are a researcher, a procurement manager, or a safety officer, familiarizing yourself with and utilizing CAS numbers for all chemical substances, including vital intermediates like (R)-tert-butyl 4-(hydroxymethyl)-2,2-dimethyloxazolidine-3-carboxylate, is a fundamental practice for ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and safety in your operations. They simplify the process of finding and procuring the right chemicals from reliable suppliers in China and globally.