For organic chemists and R&D scientists, understanding the precise chemical properties and synthetic utility of building blocks is crucial for successful project outcomes. This technical overview delves into 3-Fluoro-2-thiophenecarboxylic acid (CAS 32431-84-8), highlighting its key characteristics and applications that make it a valuable asset for synthesis, especially when sourced from reputable manufacturers in China.

Chemical Profile of 3-Fluoro-2-thiophenecarboxylic Acid

3-Fluoro-2-thiophenecarboxylic acid, with the molecular formula C5H3FO2S and a molecular weight of 146.14, presents a unique chemical profile. The thiophene ring, an aromatic five-membered heterocycle containing sulfur, provides a stable scaffold. The presence of a fluorine atom at the 3-position and a carboxylic acid group at the 2-position dictates its reactivity and potential for further functionalization:

  • Fluorine Substitution: The electron-withdrawing nature of fluorine can activate or deactivate specific positions on the thiophene ring, influencing electrophilic or nucleophilic substitution reactions. It can also impact the acidity of the carboxylic group.
  • Carboxylic Acid Functionality: This group readily undergoes typical carboxylic acid reactions such as esterification, amidation, acid halide formation, and reduction, serving as a versatile anchor point for molecular elaboration.
  • Thiophene Ring Reactivity: The thiophene ring itself can participate in reactions such as electrophilic aromatic substitution, metallation, and cross-coupling reactions, allowing for diverse synthetic routes.

Typical physical properties such as a melting point between 157-158°C (reported for high purity grades) and a boiling point of 263.819°C at 760 mmHg further define its handling and reaction parameters. Understanding these properties is vital for chemists looking to buy and utilize this intermediate effectively.

Synthetic Utility and Reaction Pathways

The combination of these functional groups makes 3-Fluoro-2-thiophenecarboxylic acid an excellent starting material for various synthetic transformations:

  • Pharmaceutical Synthesis: It serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of drug candidates. For example, the carboxylic acid can be coupled with amines to form amide linkages, or esterified with alcohols to introduce specific side chains into complex APIs. The fluorinated thiophene core can be a critical pharmacophore in enzyme inhibitors or receptor modulators.
  • Cross-Coupling Reactions: Halogenated thiophenes (like a related chloro-derivative) are well-known substrates for palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions (e.g., Suzuki, Stille couplings). While this specific molecule is a carboxylic acid, derivatization can facilitate such reactions, allowing for the introduction of aryl or alkyl groups onto the thiophene ring.
  • Heterocyclic Chemistry: The molecule can be used to build more complex fused heterocyclic systems through cyclization reactions involving the carboxylic acid and other introduced functional groups.

For researchers aiming to buy this compound, sourcing from a supplier that can guarantee high purity and consistent quality is essential for reproducible results in sensitive synthetic procedures. Manufacturers in China often provide detailed technical specifications and support to assist scientists in their R&D endeavors.

By understanding the inherent chemical properties and synthetic potential of 3-Fluoro-2-thiophenecarboxylic acid, chemists can more effectively leverage this versatile intermediate in their research and development pipelines.