2-Amino-1,3-Propanediol: Properties, Uses & FAQs

2-Amino-1,3-propanediol is a bifunctional, water-soluble amino alcohol (also known as serinol) that serves as a versatile building block in organic synthesis, pharmaceutical development, and biochemical research.

Common Name

Serinol

Molecular Formula

C₃H₉NO₂

Molecular Weight

91.11 g/mol

Functional Groups

Primary amine (–NH₂) and two primary hydroxyl groups (–OH)

Solubility

Freely soluble in water and polar solvents such as methanol and ethanol

CAS Number

534-03-2

Aladdin SKU

A100952

Chemical Identity and Physical Properties

2-Amino-1,3-propanediol, commonly referred to as serinol, is a small, achiral amino diol with the molecular formula C₃H₉NO₂ and a molecular weight of 91.11 g/mol (CAS 534-03-2). It bears both a primary amine group and two symmetrically positioned primary hydroxyl groups on the central carbon skeleton, making it structurally analogous to the amino acid serine but lacking the carboxylic acid moiety.

The compound is a colorless to white crystalline solid at room temperature with a relatively low melting point. It is hygroscopic and freely miscible with water, methanol, and ethanol, while showing limited solubility in nonpolar solvents such as diethyl ether or hexane. Its high hydrophilicity and the presence of three reactive functional groups give it broad utility in aqueous-phase chemistry and multi-step synthetic sequences.

Applications in Organic Synthesis and Pharmaceutical Research

The trifunctional nature of 2-amino-1,3-propanediol makes it a valuable building block and intermediate across multiple fields:

• Pharmaceutical intermediates: Serinol serves as a precursor in the synthesis of biologically active molecules, including certain beta-blockers, antifungal agents, and sphingolipid analogs. Its amino and hydroxyl groups can be selectively protected and functionalized to build complex drug candidates.
• Nucleoside and oligonucleotide chemistry: The compound is used as a non-nucleosidic linker and backbone modifier in the preparation of modified oligonucleotides, contributing to studies of nucleic acid structure and antisense therapeutics.
• Polymer and material science: As a cross-linker or monomer, serinol contributes to the preparation of polyurethanes, polyamides, and other functional polymers with tunable hydrophilicity.
• Biochemical probes: Serinol-derived lipids and sphingosine analogs are used to investigate sphingolipid metabolism and membrane biology.

Storage, Handling, and Safety Considerations

Proper storage and handling of 2-amino-1,3-propanediol are essential to maintain reagent integrity and ensure laboratory safety:

• Storage: Store in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from moisture and incompatible materials such as strong oxidizers and strong acids. The compound is hygroscopic; exposure to ambient humidity can cause clumping and degradation.
• Handling: Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, safety glasses, and lab coat. Work in a well-ventilated area or fume hood when handling large quantities or generating dust.
• Stability: The compound is generally stable under recommended storage conditions. Prolonged or improper storage may lead to discoloration or reduced purity.
• Disposal: Dispose of waste in accordance with local, regional, and national environmental regulations.

Always consult the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided by Aladdin Scientific before use.

Purity, Grades, and Quality Specifications

For research and synthetic applications, reagent purity is critical. Aladdin Scientific supplies 2-Amino-1,3-propanediol (SKU: A100952) as a research-grade reagent. Key quality attributes typically evaluated for this compound include:

• Purity: Assessed by methods such as titration, GC, or HPLC; research-grade material is typically ≥98% pure (verify current certificate of analysis for lot-specific values).
• Appearance: White to off-white crystalline solid or powder.
• Identity confirmation: Verified by NMR or IR spectroscopy.
• Water content: Controlled to minimize hygroscopic uptake and ensure accurate weighing for formulations.

Researchers requiring higher-purity material for GMP or clinical applications should contact Aladdin Scientific's technical team to discuss available options and documentation.

Frequently asked questions

What is 2-Amino-1,3-propanediol used for in research?

2-Amino-1,3-propanediol (serinol) is widely used as a multifunctional building block in organic and medicinal chemistry. Key applications include the synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates such as beta-blocker precursors and sphingolipid analogs, as a linker or backbone component in modified oligonucleotide chemistry, and as a monomer or cross-linker in specialty polymer synthesis. Its combination of amine and diol functionality allows selective, stepwise chemical modification.

How should 2-Amino-1,3-propanediol be stored to maintain purity?

The compound should be stored in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated location away from moisture, strong acids, and strong oxidizing agents. Because serinol is hygroscopic, exposure to air and humidity should be minimized during weighing and handling. Always reseal the container promptly after use and consult the current SDS for full storage guidance.

Is 2-Amino-1,3-propanediol the same as serinol?

Yes. Serinol is the common trivial name for 2-amino-1,3-propanediol. Both names refer to the same compound with CAS number 534-03-2 and molecular formula C₃H₉NO₂. The IUPAC name is 2-aminopropane-1,3-diol. Researchers may encounter either name in the literature, and Aladdin's product A100952 corresponds to this compound.

What purity grade of 2-Amino-1,3-propanediol does Aladdin Scientific offer?

Aladdin Scientific offers 2-Amino-1,3-propanediol (SKU: A100952) as a research-grade reagent, typically ≥98% purity. For lot-specific purity data and full analytical specifications, please request or download the Certificate of Analysis (CoA) from the product page. Researchers with higher-purity or documentation requirements should contact the Aladdin technical support team.

Can 2-Amino-1,3-propanediol be used in aqueous reaction conditions?

Yes. 2-Amino-1,3-propanediol is freely soluble in water and polar protic solvents, making it well-suited for aqueous-phase reactions. Its high water solubility is advantageous in biochemical assays, aqueous coupling reactions, and formulations requiring water-miscible components. Researchers should account for its basicity (primary amine) when designing buffered reaction systems.

References

1. March, J. Advanced Organic Chemistry: Reactions, Mechanisms, and Structure. Wiley-Interscience. General reference for amino alcohol chemistry.
2. Aladdin Scientific Product Page: 2-Amino-1,3-propanediol, SKU A100952. Certificate of Analysis and Safety Data Sheet.
3. PubChem Compound Summary: 2-Aminopropane-1,3-diol (Serinol), CID 99289. National Library of Medicine.

Products are supplied for research and development use only. Not for use in humans, animals, diagnosis, or therapy.