For professionals involved in the procurement of chemical compounds, a clear understanding of product specifications is non-negotiable. Uracil (CAS 66-22-8), a fundamental pyrimidine nucleobase and a crucial intermediate in pharmaceutical synthesis, requires meticulous attention to its quality parameters. This guide focuses on the essential specifications that procurement managers should look for when sourcing Uracil, emphasizing the importance of working with reliable suppliers.

The primary specification for Uracil (CAS 66-22-8) is its purity. Typically, for pharmaceutical and research applications, a purity level of ≥99.0% is required. This high purity ensures that the Uracil will perform as expected in sensitive synthesis reactions or biological experiments, minimizing the risk of side reactions caused by impurities. When you buy Uracil, always verify the purity stated on the product's Certificate of Analysis (CoA).

The appearance of Uracil is another key indicator of quality. It is generally described as a white to off-white crystalline powder. Any deviation from this description, such as significant discoloration or the presence of foreign particulate matter, could indicate issues with manufacturing, handling, or storage. Procurement professionals should ensure that the supplier's product matches this standard description.

Beyond purity and appearance, several other analytical specifications are critical for quality assurance. These often include:

  • Loss on Drying (LOD): Typically specified as ≤0.30%, this measures the amount of volatile matter (usually water) present. Low LOD is important for accurate weighing and reaction stoichiometry.
  • Residue on Ignition (ROI): A low ROI (often ≤0.1%) indicates minimal inorganic impurities.
  • Heavy Metals: Limits for heavy metals (e.g., ≤10 ppm) are crucial, especially for pharmaceutical applications, to prevent contamination.
  • Chloride and Sulfate content: Specified limits for these ions (e.g., Chloride ≤100 ppm, Sulfate ≤0.30%) further define the product's purity.

When you purchase Uracil, ensure that the supplier provides readily accessible documentation such as a CoA for each batch, a detailed Technical Data Sheet (TDS), and a comprehensive Safety Data Sheet (SDS). The CoA is paramount as it confirms that the specific batch meets the agreed-upon specifications. The TDS provides detailed chemical and physical properties, while the SDS offers essential safety and handling information.

Sourcing Uracil from a reputable Uracil supplier or Uracil manufacturer, particularly those operating in China, requires due diligence. Look for suppliers with established quality management systems (e.g., ISO certifications) and a proven track record of reliability. Understanding the packaging (commonly 25 kg drums) and storage recommendations (typically cool, dry conditions) is also important for maintaining product integrity post-delivery.

The price of Uracil should be evaluated in conjunction with these specifications. While competitive pricing is desirable, prioritizing suppliers who consistently deliver high-quality Uracil with complete documentation is essential for long-term project success and regulatory compliance. Engaging with multiple potential suppliers and requesting detailed quotes will help in securing the best value.

In conclusion, a thorough understanding of Uracil's specifications—purity, appearance, and related analytical parameters—coupled with reliable documentation from the supplier, is key to successful procurement. By adhering to these guidelines, procurement professionals can ensure they source high-quality Uracil (CAS 66-22-8) that meets the demanding requirements of pharmaceutical synthesis and biochemical research.