Description

4-Hydroxyhexanoic Acid is a versatile six-carbon hydroxy fatty acid that serves as a valuable chiral building block and intermediate in organic synthesis. Its bifunctional nature, featuring both a carboxylic acid and a hydroxyl group, makes it a critical precursor for the production of fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and advanced polymers. This compound is essential for research and development chemists, process engineers, and manufacturers in the pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and specialty chemical industries seeking to develop new active ingredients or functional materials.

Application

• Pharmaceutical Intermediate: Key chiral synthon for the synthesis of statin drugs, β-lactam antibiotics, and other bioactive molecules.
• Polymer Chemistry: Monomer for the production of biodegradable polyesters (e.g., poly(4-hydroxyhexanoate)) and polyurethane elastomers.
• Agrochemical Synthesis: Building block for creating advanced herbicides, fungicides, and plant growth regulators.
• Flavor and Fragrance Industry: Precursor for lactones and esters that contribute to creamy, fruity, or coconut-like notes.
• Cosmetic Ingredients: Intermediate in the synthesis of emollients, surfactants, and viscosity modifiers.
• Chemical Research: Standard and reagent in asymmetric synthesis, catalysis studies, and metabolic pathway research.

Basic Information

Product Name	4-Hydroxyhexanoic Acid
CAS No.	13532-38-2
Molecular Formula	C6H12O3
Molecular Weight	132.16 g/mol
Synonyms	4-Hydroxycaproic Acid; γ-Hydroxycaproic Acid; 4-Hydroxyhexanoic Acid; Hexanoic acid, 4-hydroxy-; 4-HHA; (±)-4-Hydroxyhexanoic acid; DL-4-Hydroxyhexanoic acid
EINECS	236-876-7

Quality Control

Our 4-Hydroxyhexanoic Acid is manufactured under a strict quality management system. Every batch is subjected to comprehensive analytical testing including HPLC, GC, and NMR to ensure identity, purity, and consistency. We provide a detailed Certificate of Analysis (COA) with each shipment, documenting critical parameters such as assay, enantiomeric purity (if applicable), and impurity profiles. Our production facilities and processes are designed to meet the stringent requirements of cGMP for pharmaceutical intermediates.

Storage

Preserve in a tightly closed container, protected from light. Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area at a controlled room temperature (15-25°C). The product is hygroscopic (moisture-sensitive); keep the container tightly sealed when not in use to prevent absorption of atmospheric moisture. Keep away from strong oxidizing agents, strong bases, and heat sources.

Specification

Item	Specification
Appearance	Colorless to pale yellow liquid or low-melting solid
Identification (IR)	Conforms to structure
Assay (HPLC)	≥ 98.0%
Water Content (KF)	≤ 1.0%
Residue on Ignition	≤ 0.1%
Specific Rotation (if chiral)	Contact for details

Note: Specifications can be tailored. Please contact us for the detailed technical data sheet of a specific grade.