Heterocycles are one of the largest classes of organic compounds worldwide. They are formed through a process known as heterocyclic synthesis, where carbon atoms and at least one heteroatom – non-carbon atom – bind into a ring. While heterocyclic chemistry is complicated, fine chemical manufacturers routinely generate large volumes of heterocycles for an array of applications.
Though heterocycles can be partially or fully saturated, aromatic are the most stable, which explains their value to a wide variety of products. Today, heterocyclic synthesis is important for agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals, with growing applications in optoelectronics markets. Heterocycles are also increasingly useful as flavoring agents and dyes, as well as intermediates in organic synthesis.
The rich variety of end-uses of heterocyclic compounds comes down to the increasing diversity of synthesis techniques. There are many ways to produce heterocyclic rings, but the most common processes involve the use of precursors to synthesize the desired molecule, modification of an existing heterocyclic or carbocyclic ring, or modifying the substituents on an existing heterocycle.
Fine Chemical Heterocyclic Synthesis in Agrochemical & Health Industry
Heterocyclic compounds containing nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur are important components in the production and development of crop protection chemicals and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Azole type heterocyclic rings (5-member rings containing one nitrogen and at least one additional heteroatom) are a common building block for an entire class of antifungal known as azole antifungals. These chemicals are used in both fungicides and as anti-fungal medications. Fine chemical manufacturers provide key building blocks and intermediaries to support the synthesis of these important molecules.
Fine Chemical Heterocyclic Synthesis in Electronics & Other Industries
Heterocyclic building blocks are a key part of ongoing research into organic semiconductors. These semiconductors tend to be more flexible and have a low processing temperature which makes them ideal for electronics applications that may require flexibility. Custom fine chemical manufacturers, with their traditional expertise supporting the agro and pharma industries with high purity chemicals using heterocyclic synthesis, are well positioned to support the scale-up of this technology with extremely high purity profiles.
Heterocyclic Synthesis at CABB
CABB Group is a leading fine chemical custom manufacturer of starting materials, advanced intermediates, and active ingredients. CABB’s Custom Manufacturing business supports customers from 3 locations: Pratteln, Switzerland; Kokkola, Finland; and Jayhawk, USA, to offer creative solutions involving heterocyclic synthesis.
If you would like more information about our products and services, simply contact a member of the CABB team today.
