Methyl D-Lactate / Methyl (R)-(+)-lactate (CAS 17392-83-5)

Methyl D-Lactate Introduction

Methyl D-Lactate (CAS 17392-83-5), also known as methyl (R)-(+)-lactate, is the methyl ester of D-lactic acid with a defined (R)-configuration at the α-carbon. It is a colorless to slightly yellow liquid (bp 145°C / 293°F, density ~1.10 g/mL) that is miscible with water and most organic solvents. As a single-enantiomer α-hydroxy ester, it serves as a versatile chiral building block in asymmetric synthesis, providing a readily accessible C3 chiral synthon with both a hydroxyl and an ester functional group available for further transformation.

The compound is produced via enzymatic resolution or asymmetric fermentation of D-lactic acid followed by esterification. UET Chemical supplies Methyl D-Lactate at ≥99.0% chemical purity (GC) and ≥99% enantiomeric excess (chiral GC), manufactured under controlled conditions with full batch traceability. Each shipment includes COA, GC chromatogram, chiral GC report (ee value), optical rotation data, and SDS. This material is widely used by contract research organizations (CROs), API manufacturers, and polymer research laboratories.

Chemical Information

Methyl D-Lactate Specifications

Methyl D-Lactate Specifications

Methyl D-Lactate Applications

Key Advantages

Defined stereochemistry — ≥99% ee ensures predictable stereoselectivity in downstream synthesis. Critical for API intermediates where enantiomeric purity directly impacts drug efficacy and regulatory acceptance.

Dual functional groups — Both the hydroxyl and ester moieties are available for selective transformation (reduction, oxidation, transesterification, protection/deprotection), enabling diverse synthetic routes from a single starting material.

Bio-based origin — Derived from fermentation-produced D-lactic acid, supporting sustainability claims and green chemistry initiatives. Suitable for projects requiring renewable carbon content documentation.

Low toxicity profile — Methyl lactate is classified as a low-toxicity solvent (LD₅₀ oral rat >2,000 mg/kg). Listed on several “green solvent” recommendation lists as a replacement for dichloromethane, DMF, and NMP.

Methyl D-Lactate Storage and Stability

Stability notes:

• Methyl D-Lactate hydrolyzes slowly in the presence of water, especially under acidic or basic conditions. Keep container sealed and minimize headspace moisture.
• Avoid contact with strong acids, strong bases, and strong oxidizers. Hydrolysis accelerates at pH < 3 or pH > 10.
• Flash point is 49°C (120°F) — store away from ignition sources. Classify as flammable liquid (Category 3) per GHS.
• Optical rotation should be verified upon receipt and periodically during storage. A drift in [α]D may indicate racemization or contamination.
• For long-term storage (>6 months), nitrogen headspace and refrigeration (2–8°C / 36–46°F) are recommended to minimize hydrolysis and preserve ee.

Methyl D-Lactate Usage Guide

Step 1 – Verify upon receipt: Check optical rotation ([α]²⁰/D +7° to +9°) and chiral GC (≥99% ee) against the COA. Confirm water content ≤0.5% by Karl Fischer titration.

Step 2 – Handling precautions: Work in a well-ventilated area or fume hood. Wear nitrile gloves and safety glasses. Flash point 49°C (120°F) — keep away from open flames and hot surfaces. Ground containers during transfer to prevent static discharge.

Step 3 – Synthetic use: Methyl D-Lactate can be used directly or after hydroxyl protection (e.g., TBDMS, benzyl, acetyl). Common transformations include:

• Reduction (LiAlH₄, DIBAL-H) → chiral diols
• Ester hydrolysis → D-lactic acid
• Transesterification → other chiral esters
• Tosylation/mesylation of OH → chiral leaving group intermediates

Step 4 – Waste disposal: Collect waste in labeled containers. Biodegradable; incineration or approved chemical waste disposal per local regulations.

Compatibility

Why Source Methyl D-Lactate from UET Chemical

Methyl D-Lactate FAQ

Q1: What is the difference between Methyl D-Lactate and Methyl L-Lactate?

They are enantiomers — mirror-image isomers. Methyl D-Lactate (CAS 17392-83-5) has the (R)-configuration and positive optical rotation ([α]D +7° to +9°). Methyl L-Lactate (CAS 27871-49-4) has the (S)-configuration and negative rotation. The choice depends on the target molecule’s required stereochemistry. We supply both enantiomers.

Q2: How is enantiomeric excess (ee) measured?

We use chiral GC (e.g., Chirasil-DEX CB or equivalent cyclodextrin-based column) to separate and quantify the R and S enantiomers. The ee value is calculated as |R − S| / (R + S) × 100%. A full chiral GC chromatogram is included with every COA.

Q3: What is the hydrolysis risk during storage?

Methyl D-Lactate hydrolyzes slowly in the presence of moisture, forming D-lactic acid and methanol. At neutral pH and sealed conditions, hydrolysis is minimal (<0.1% over 6 months). To minimize risk: keep container sealed, use nitrogen blanket, and store at 2–25°C (36–77°F). Water content is tested by Karl Fischer (≤0.5%) before shipment.

Q4: Can this material be used for GMP pharmaceutical manufacturing?

Yes. Our Methyl D-Lactate is produced in a GMP-aligned facility. We provide full documentation packages including COA, chiral GC, TDS, SDS, residual solvent statement, and elemental impurity data (ICH Q3D) to support DMF filing and regulatory submissions.

Q5: What is the lead time for bulk orders?

• In-stock (25 kg drum): Ships in 5–7 business days after payment.
• 200 kg drum or custom specs: 10–15 business days production.
• Sea freight: 25–35 days (North America), 20–30 days (Europe), 7–15 days (SE Asia).

Q6: Is Methyl D-Lactate classified as a dangerous good for shipping?

Yes. It is classified as UN 1993, Flammable Liquid, N.O.S., Class 3, PG III (flash point 49°C / 120°F). We provide full shipping documentation including UN-certified packaging, MSDS, and dangerous goods declaration. Air freight is possible with IATA-compliant packaging.