1,4-Androstadiene doesn’t appear on every chemist’s shelf, but it pulls weight across several fields. Recognized by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) as androst-1,4-diene, this organic compound carries the molecular formula C19H26. Its backbone forms from the classic androstane structure, only here, double bonds run at the first and fourth positions. These structural quirks affect chemical behavior and set it apart from other steroids. The HS Code for 1,4-Androstadiene lands in the generic area for steroidal raw materials, typically hovering around 293729 for international customs reference.
Lift the lid on this material, and you'd likely meet a solid substance, modestly crystalline and white to off-white in color. A quick glance is enough to know it won’t dissolve in water, but slide it into organic solvents like ethanol or chloroform, and it blends in much better. Density for 1,4-Androstadiene hovers close to 1.1 g/cm³, placing it in line with many solid organics in the steroid family. Crystallinity matters for purity checks, and flake or powder forms usually mean cleaner product and better control in formulations. It avoids becoming a true liquid at normal temperatures, so it ships, stores, and handles much like other powdered chemicals in the steroid group. The formula showcases nineteen carbons and a mix of double and single bonds, arranged to hold the aromatic energy of the two double links without toppling the structure’s typical four-ring core.
See the term “raw material” with this compound, and it’s pointing right at its place in the early stages of steroid synthesis. Pharmaceutical labs seek it out for building blocks, especially in the creation of anabolic agents, corticoids, and other hormonal products. Its structure invites a wide span of chemical reactions; transformations at its diene positions shape the outlines of entirely new molecules. The logistical world deals with it in drums of powder or crystalline flakes, labeled for chemical processing. Its HS Code placement is more than just paperwork — it flags the compound for close monitoring, as steroidal substances frequently slip under tight regulation by health and customs agencies worldwide.
One batch of 1,4-Androstadiene may not look like the next. The forms range from micro-crystalline powder to denser pearls or even rough flakes, depending on handling and the purification techniques used. No liquids here unless someone mishandles storage or adds solvents. Finely powdered variants dissolve faster and react more predictably, a main concern in precision batch chemistry. Appearance, melting point (around 165-168°C for a pure sample), and density all show up in the spec sheet. Acquiring a certificate of analysis from trusted suppliers probably sets apart a reliable purchase from a questionable one. Getting a consistent bulk material avoids delays and headaches for anyone formulating finished pharmaceuticals.
This isn’t a kitchen-shelf chemical and treating it lightly invites problems. 1,4-Androstadiene enters the “hazardous substance” category, mainly for its potential health impacts and volatility under the wrong conditions. Dust generation during handling can open doors to inhalation risk and possible hormonal disruption. Relevant safety data sheets put strong focus on personal protective equipment, controlled environments, and secure containment. One whiff of fine powder can be enough to trigger symptoms in a sensitive individual. Sweep up a spill dry, never wet, and store in tight, labeled containers under moderate temperature. Harmful effects, especially with repeated exposure, call for strict handling rules in both industrial and research labs. Safe chemical management—air control, gloves, respirators, and documentation—makes a difference in reducing risk. Routine health checks become standard for anyone frequently working with steroidal intermediates like 1,4-Androstadiene.
The workhorse role of 1,4-Androstadiene stretches from specialty chemicals markets into the heart of pharma research. Raw steroidal skeletons form the backbone of much hormone manipulation work, meaning that regulators always keep a close eye on production, shipping, and final destination of every drum. As science marches on toward greener, safer chemistry, everyone involved—manufacturers, labs, regulators—answers the call for better traceability, safer routes of synthesis, and tighter end-use monitoring. These steps cut down on misuse and lower the environmental burden linked to large-scale steroid manufacture. Improved worker protections and real-time documentation, instead of old-fashioned paper trails, reduce the human impact.
No shortcuts fit when dealing with 1,4-Androstadiene. The blend of purity demands, real safety hazards, and tight regulation put it in a class of substances requiring respect at every step. Knowing the difference among appearance forms, closely reading property specs, and building robust safety procedures mark the job for anyone setting out to use this chemical in the lab or on the production line. With strict standards from trusted suppliers, steady documentation of all raw materials, and an eye for regulatory changes, this is the only way to safely move forward in any work involving such a powerful organic intermediate.
