(R)-2-Hydroxybutyric acid
(R)-2-Hydroxybutyric acid (CAS: 20016-85-7, C4H8O3) is a chiral carboxylic acid with a molecular weight of 104.10 g/mol. As a valuable chiral building block, it is frequently employed in asymmetric synthesis and organic chemical synthesis. Its specific stereochemistry makes it a useful intermediate for creating more complex chiral molecules, particularly in research and development settings. TSS supplies this chemical with a high optical purity.

Chiral Building Block
(R)-2-Hydroxybutyric acid serves as a crucial chiral synthon in the synthesis of enantiomerically pure compounds. Its defined stereocenter allows for stereoselective transformations.
Asymmetric Synthesis
This compound is instrumental in asymmetric synthesis, enabling the creation of chiral molecules with high enantiomeric excess. It is a key intermediate in the development of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals.
Organic Synthesis Intermediate
Utilised as a versatile intermediate in various organic transformations, (R)-2-Hydroxybutyric acid facilitates the construction of complex molecular architectures in research laboratories.
| Molecular weight | 104.10 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C4H8O3 |
| Assay | ≥97.0% (T) |
| Optical purity | enantiomeric ratio: ≥99:1 (GC) |
| Storage temperature | 2-8°C |
| Melting point | 50-54 °C |


Hazard statements
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H318Causes serious eye damage
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- 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) | 37/38-41 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-39 |
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 (R)-2-Hydroxybutyric acid used for?
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(R)-2-Hydroxybutyric acid is primarily used as a chiral building block in asymmetric synthesis and as an intermediate in organic chemical synthesis for research and development purposes.
What is the CAS number and molecular formula for (R)-2-Hydroxybutyric acid?
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The CAS number is 20016-85-7 and the molecular formula is C4H8O3.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies (R)-2-Hydroxybutyric acid with an assay of ≥97.0% (T) and an optical purity of enantiomeric ratio: ≥99:1 (GC). TSS does not represent this product as USP, BP, EP, or other pharmacopoeia grades.
How should (R)-2-Hydroxybutyric acid be handled and stored?
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Handle with appropriate personal protective equipment, including a dust mask (type N95), eyeshields, and gloves, as it may cause skin irritation, serious eye damage, and respiratory irritation. Store at 2-8°C.
Is (R)-2-Hydroxybutyric acid a controlled substance?
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Based on the provided data, (R)-2-Hydroxybutyric acid is not indicated as a controlled substance.
How can I request a sample or quote for (R)-2-Hydroxybutyric acid?
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Please contact our sales team via the website or by phone to request a sample or a quote for (R)-2-Hydroxybutyric acid.
How is (R)-2-Hydroxybutyric acid packed and exported?
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(R)-2-Hydroxybutyric acid is carefully packed according to industry standards for safe transport and is available for global export by Tech Serve Solutions.
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