Indole-4-carboxylic acid
Indole-4-carboxylic acid (CAS: 2124-55-2), with the molecular formula C9H7NO2 and a molecular weight of 161.16 g/mol, is a heterocyclic organic compound. This indole derivative serves as a valuable building block in organic synthesis. Its primary applications lie in the preparation of ester derivatives, particularly tert-butyl esters, which are useful intermediates in further chemical transformations.
- IUPAC
- 4-Carboxyindole
- Synonyms
- 4-Carboxyindole

Synthesis of Tert-Butyl Esters
Indole-4-carboxylic acid is readily converted into its tert-butyl esters. This transformation is typically achieved using N,N-dimethylformamide di-tert-butyl acetal, providing a key intermediate for further synthetic manipulations.
Organic Synthesis Intermediate
As a functionalised indole, this compound is employed as a building block in the synthesis of more complex organic molecules. Its carboxylic acid group allows for various derivatizations and coupling reactions.
Heterocyclic Chemistry Research
The indole scaffold is a prevalent motif in many biologically active compounds. Indole-4-carboxylic acid provides a starting point for researchers exploring novel indole-based structures in medicinal chemistry and materials science.
| Molecular weight | 161.16 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C9H7NO2 |
| Assay | 98% |
| Application | tert-butyl esters of indole and pyrrolecarboylic acids are readily prepared by direct treatment with N,N-dimethylformamide di-tert-butyl acetal (Cat. No. 395005).8 |
| Melting point | 213-214 °C(lit.) |

Hazard statements
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Indole-4-carboxylic acid used for?
+
Indole-4-carboxylic acid is primarily used as a building block in organic synthesis, particularly for the preparation of tert-butyl esters and other indole derivatives.
What are the CAS number and molecular formula for Indole-4-carboxylic acid?
+
The CAS number is 2124-55-2, and the molecular formula is C9H7NO2.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies Indole-4-carboxylic acid with a minimum assay of 98%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, EP, or pharmacopoeia grade.
What are the main hazards associated with Indole-4-carboxylic acid?
+
Indole-4-carboxylic acid is classified as a Warning (GHS07) with hazards including skin irritation (H315), serious eye irritation (H319), and respiratory tract irritation (H335). Appropriate personal protective equipment, including a dust mask (N95), eyeshields, and gloves, should be used.
How is Indole-4-carboxylic acid packaged and shipped?
+
This chemical is carefully packaged for export and supplied by Tech Serve Solutions, a global exporter of fine chemicals.
How can I request a quote or sample?
+
Please contact our sales team to request a quote or a sample of Indole-4-carboxylic acid.
▶ Related products

1-(2-Fluorobenzyl)piperazine
C11H15FN2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)biguanide hydrochloride
Chemical Synthesis

1-(2-Fluorophenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid
C10H9FO2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)piperazine
C10H13FN2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)piperazine monohydrochloride
C10H13FN2 · HCl
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Furoyl)-1H-benzotriazole
C11H7N3O2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Furoyl)piperazine
C9H12N2O2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)-3-phenyl-1,3-propanedione
Chemical Synthesis
▶ Explore more

3-Methyl-1,5-di-p-tolyl-1,4-pentazadiene
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1,5-pentanediol
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1-(2-methylphenyl)-1H-pyrazol-5-amine
C11H13N3
Chemical Synthesis
3-Methyl-1-(3′-sulfoamidophenyl)-5-pyrazolone
C10H11N3O3S
Chemical Synthesis