For professionals in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries, a thorough understanding of key chemical compounds is fundamental to successful operations. (S)-Ibuprofen, identified by CAS number 51146-56-6, is a significant pharmaceutical intermediate with specific properties that make it valuable in the synthesis of APIs. This article aims to provide essential information on its properties, market availability, and guidance on how to purchase this compound effectively.

Key Properties of (S)-Ibuprofen
(S)-Ibuprofen is the enantiomerically pure form of Ibuprofen that exhibits the primary pharmacological activity. Key properties typically observed include:

1. Appearance: Commonly supplied as a white powder. This physical form is standard for many fine chemical intermediates, facilitating handling and integration into synthesis processes.

2. Purity: In the pharmaceutical sector, high chemical purity is a strict requirement. Specifications often call for purity levels of 99% or higher, confirmed by analytical methods like High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) or Gas Chromatography (GC).

3. Chirality: As a chiral molecule, (S)-Ibuprofen possesses a specific spatial arrangement of atoms. Enantiomeric purity (or enantiomeric excess, ee) is a critical parameter, ensuring that the majority of the material is indeed the desired (S)-enantiomer.

4. Melting Point: While not always the primary specification for intermediates, the melting point can serve as an indicator of purity. For (S)-Ibuprofen, literature values often indicate a melting point around 51-53°C.

5. Solubility: It is typically soluble in common organic solvents such as methanol, ethanol, and DMSO, which is important for its use in various chemical reactions and analytical procedures.

Market Availability and Sourcing Considerations
(S)-Ibuprofen is readily available from a number of chemical manufacturers and suppliers globally, with a strong presence in regions known for chemical production, such as China. When considering where to buy (S)-Ibuprofen, prospective buyers should:

1. Verify Supplier Credentials: Look for established chemical suppliers with a proven track record in providing pharmaceutical-grade intermediates. Suppliers offering detailed product specifications and Certificates of Analysis (CoA) are preferred.

2. Inquire about Purity and Specifications: Always confirm that the product meets your required purity levels, both chemical and enantiomeric. Specifications such as CAS 51146-56-6 and the minimum purity percentage (e.g., ≥98% or ≥99%) should be clearly stated.

3. Compare Pricing: Obtain quotes from multiple suppliers, especially for larger quantities, to ensure competitive pricing. Factors like volume, shipping terms, and payment conditions can influence the final cost.

4. Assess Lead Times and Logistics: Understand the supplier's lead times for order fulfillment and their shipping capabilities to ensure timely delivery for your production schedules.

Importance in Pharmaceutical Synthesis
The primary use of (S)-Ibuprofen is as a pharmaceutical intermediate. Its high purity and specific chiral configuration make it an ideal starting material or building block in the multi-step synthesis of complex APIs. Pharmaceutical manufacturers rely on such intermediates to ensure the consistency, quality, and therapeutic effectiveness of their final drug products. For companies looking to purchase (S)-Ibuprofen, partnering with a manufacturer that demonstrates a strong commitment to quality control and regulatory compliance is key to a successful procurement process.

In summary, understanding the properties and market availability of (S)-Ibuprofen (CAS 51146-56-6) is crucial for efficient sourcing. By focusing on purity, reliable suppliers, and competitive pricing, pharmaceutical professionals can secure this essential intermediate for their manufacturing and R&D needs.