(2R,4R)-(-)-2,4-Pentanediol from TCI (product code P1411) is a chiral diol with two secondary hydroxyl groups in a 1,3-relationship. Both stereogenic centres have the R configuration. TCI lists it as a chiral building block. In the laboratory it serves as a chiral auxiliary, a precursor for chiral ligands, and a source of stereochemistry when building optically active molecules. Synthetic chemists use it to bring defined, predictable chirality into target structures from an early stage of a synthetic route.
The key feature of this compound is its C2 symmetry, which makes its two hydroxyl groups chemically equivalent. This property is highly valued in asymmetric synthesis because it makes the reagent easy to use. When the diol reacts with an aldehyde or ketone to form a six-membered cyclic acetal or ketal (a 1,3-dioxane), no complicated mixture of diastereomers forms, because both sides of the molecule are identical. These chiral acetals can then undergo diastereoselective ring-opening reactions with nucleophiles, giving chiral alcohols once the auxiliary is removed. The diol can also be converted into a bis-sulfonate and then substituted with phosphide to give chiral diphosphine ligands with a pentane backbone.
In Indonesian laboratories, this material suits research groups working in asymmetric synthesis and coordination chemistry, especially those designing chiral ligands for metal-catalysed reactions. University organic chemistry departments, graduate research projects, and research institutes studying stereoselective methods can use it to prepare chiral acetals, auxiliaries, and diphosphine ligands. It is also useful for teaching and research work that shows how molecular symmetry simplifies stereochemical outcomes in practical synthesis.
- Chiral auxiliary chemistry: the C2-symmetric diol forms cyclic acetals with aldehydes and ketones without complex diastereomer mixtures, which keeps stereochemical analysis simple and predictable.
- Diastereoselective acetal ring-opening: chiral 1,3-dioxanes made from this diol can be opened selectively with nucleophiles, giving chiral alcohols after the auxiliary is removed.
- Chiral diphosphine ligand synthesis: the diol can be converted into a bis-sulfonate and substituted with phosphide, giving chiral diphosphine ligands with a pentane backbone.
- Coordination chemistry research: ligands derived from this diol let research groups study how a defined chiral environment around a metal centre affects catalytic selectivity.
- Building optically active molecules: as a chiral building block with R configuration at both stereocentres, it brings reliable stereochemistry into synthetic targets from early steps.
| Brand | TCI (product code P1411) |
|---|---|
| CAS number | 42075-32-1 |
| Molecular formula | — |
| Purity | — |
| Category | Chemistry > Asymmetric Synthesis > Chiral Building Blocks |
| Pack sizes | as listed in the TCI catalogue for product P1411 |
| Physical form | refer to the TCI product label and Certificate of Analysis |
| Storage | follow the storage conditions on the TCI label and Safety Data Sheet |
Store (2R,4R)-(-)-2,4-Pentanediol in its original, tightly closed manufacturer's container, in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and incompatible materials such as strong oxidising agents. Always follow the exact storage conditions on the TCI label and Safety Data Sheet. Reseal the container promptly after use to limit exposure to moisture and air, which helps protect the chiral purity needed for asymmetric work. Handle the material in a fume hood or well-ventilated area and wear standard personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, chemical-resistant gloves, and a lab coat. Avoid contact with skin and eyes and do not inhale any vapour or dust. Label any working aliquots clearly, and dispose of waste according to institutional and local regulations.
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