(S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid
(S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid (CAS: 6168-83-8; C4H8O3; MW: 104.10) is a chiral organic compound. It serves as a valuable building block in asymmetric synthesis, particularly for the construction of complex organic molecules. Its utility extends to chemical synthesis, where its stereochemistry can be leveraged to introduce chirality into target compounds. This carboxylic acid is primarily used in research and development settings for organic synthesis.

Chiral Building Block
(S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid is an essential chiral building block in organic synthesis. It allows for the stereoselective construction of complex molecules, making it valuable in pharmaceutical and fine chemical research.
Asymmetric Synthesis
This compound is employed in asymmetric synthesis to introduce specific stereochemistry. Its defined chirality enables chemists to control the three-dimensional structure of reaction products, crucial for creating enantiomerically pure compounds.
Organic Synthesis Intermediate
As a versatile intermediate, (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid participates in various organic transformations. It is used to synthesise a range of organic compounds, facilitating research and development in chemical synthesis.
| Molecular weight | 104.10 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C4H8O3 |
| Assay | ≥97.0% |
| Optical activity | [α]20/D +25±1°, c = 6% in H2O |
| Storage temperature | 2-8°C |
| Melting point | 45-50 °C |

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 (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid used for?
+
(S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid is used as a chiral building block and intermediate in asymmetric synthesis and general organic synthesis for research and development purposes.
What are the CAS number and molecular formula for (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid?
+
The CAS number is 6168-83-8, and the molecular formula is C4H8O3.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid with an assay of ≥97.0%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, EP, or any other pharmacopoeia grade.
How should (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid be handled?
+
Handle (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid with appropriate personal protective equipment, including a dust mask (type N95 US), eyeshields, and gloves. Avoid breathing dust. It is classified as causing skin irritation, serious eye irritation, and respiratory irritation (H315, H319, H335).
Is (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid a controlled substance?
+
Based on the provided data, (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid is not indicated as a controlled substance.
How is (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid packaged and shipped?
+
Tech Serve Solutions sources, stores, and exports fine chemicals. Please contact us for specific packaging and shipping details relevant to your location and order.
How can I request a sample or quote for (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid?
+
To request a sample or obtain a quote for (S)-3-Hydroxybutyric acid, please contact our sales team through the TSS website or direct contact details.
▶ 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