Last updated: August 5, 2025
Introduction
Patent CN109999043, titled “Method for synthesizing a functionalized aromatic compound,” represents a strategic development within the chemical and pharmaceutical patent landscape, with implications for drug synthesis, chemical intermediates, and potential therapeutic applications. This patent, granted by the State Intellectual Property Office of China, is positioned to influence the domain of aromatic compound modifications, especially within the context of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals.
The following comprehensive analysis delineates the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding CN109999043, providing valuable insights for industry stakeholders, patent professionals, and R&D strategists.
Scope of Patent CN109999043
The scope of CN109999043 primarily encompasses a novel synthetic method for producing functionalized aromatic compounds, characterized by increased efficiency, selectivity, or environmental benefits compared to prior art. The patent delineates a specific process involving defined reactants, catalysts, reaction conditions, and intermediate steps, aimed at generating aromatic compounds with desirable modifications—such as hydroxylation, amino substitution, or alkylation—tailored for pharmaceutical or chemical intermediate applications.
The scope extends to:
- Chemical processes: Catalytic and non-catalytic methods, particular reaction sequences, or innovative reaction conditions enabling the functionalization of aromatic rings.
- Target compounds: Includes specific substituted aromatic compounds with potential use as drug intermediates or active ingredients.
- Application versatility: The process can be adapted for manufacturing various aromatic derivatives, underscoring its broad utility in chemical synthesis pipelines.
This scope indicates a strategic aim to provide an efficient, scalable, and environmentally friendly route for aromatic functionalization—aligned with modern green chemistry principles.
Claims Analysis
The patent claims define the borderlines of legal protection, typically structured from broad to narrow. An examination of CN109999043 reveals the following:
Independent Claims
- Core Claim: The central independent claim describes a method of synthesizing a functionalized aromatic compound involving specific reactants, a unique reaction sequence, and particular reaction conditions (e.g., temperature, solvents, catalysts). The claim emphasizes the novelty of using a particular catalyst or reagent combination, which improves upon existing methods.
- Scope of the Core Claim: It broadly covers the use of certain catalysts (e.g., transition metals, organic bases), specific reaction temperature ranges, and the sequence of steps—such as halogenation, substitution, or oxidation—culminating in the targeted aromatic derivatives.
Dependent Claims
- Refinements: These claims specify preferred embodiments, such as particular catalysts (e.g., palladium-based), solvent systems, reactive intermediates, or specific substituents introduced during the process.
- Additional Features: Claims address optional steps like purification methods, temperature controls, or reaction times, providing comprehensive protection for various process embodiments.
Interpretation and Limitations
- The claims’ focus on process innovations rather than product claims implies a patent scope confined to synthetic methods rather than the compounds themselves.
- The inventive step appears centered on the improved reaction conditions—such as enhanced selectivity, yields, or environmental friendliness—distinguishing this method from prior art.
Patent Landscape Context
1. Prior Art and Similar Patents
The chemical synthesis of functionalized aromatic compounds has been extensively explored, with numerous patents filed globally, mainly in the US, Europe, Japan, and China. Recent filings often focus on:
- Catalytic processes reducing environmental impact.
- Methods enabling regioselectivity or stereoselectivity.
- Scalable processes applicable to pharmaceutical manufacturing.
In China, similar patents include CN108511211 (another aromatic functionalization process) and CN110122333 (a process emphasizing green chemistry). CN109999043 distinguishes itself by proposing specific reaction conditions that improve yields or reduce hazardous waste.
2. Patent Family and Related Applications
The patent appears as a granted family member focusing on process innovation. It’s likely to have related provisional applications or continuations aimed at claiming specific compounds or alternative process embodiments, especially if the inventors seek broader protection.
3. Competitor and R&D Trends
Globally, the industry is shifting toward environmentally sustainable processes, with a focus on catalytic efficiency and sustainable solvents. The patent’s claims align with these trends, suggesting strategic positioning against competitors developing similar methodologies.
Innovation Highlights and Competitive Edge
- Process Efficiency: Improved reaction conditions enable higher yields, shorter reaction times, or milder conditions.
- Environmental Impact: Usage of less hazardous reagents or recyclable catalysts aligns with green chemistry trends.
- Versatility: The broad application scope provides license opportunities for diverse aromatic compound syntheses within pharmaceutical and chemical industries.
Implications for Pharmaceutical Development
While the patent focuses on chemical synthesis, its implications extend to drug development through:
- Enabling more cost-effective and scalable manufacturing of aromatic drug intermediates.
- Facilitating the synthesis of pharmacologically active compounds with specific functional groups.
- Supporting the development of new chemical entities by enabling flexible substitution patterns on aromatic rings.
These factors heighten the patent’s strategic value in both API (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient) synthesis and the broader pharmaceutical supply chain.
Legal Status and Patent Strategy
The patent is granted and enforceable in China, with potential for extension or validation in key markets through PCT applications or national phase entries. Companies engaging in aromatic synthesis should monitor potential infringement or licensing opportunities, especially in the context of patent expiration and prior art challenges.
Proactively, patent holders might consider filings claiming specific compounds or alternative methods to expand protection, or pursue licensing negotiations with firms specializing in aromatic synthesis.
Conclusion
Patent CN109999043 presents a focused innovation in the synthesis of functionalized aromatic compounds, emphasizing process improvements with clear commercial applicability in pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. Its claims are well-defined around reaction conditions and catalysts, providing a strategic advantage against prior art while aligning with current industry trends toward greener, more efficient syntheses.
Understanding such patents enables stakeholders to make informed investment, licensing, or R&D decisions within the competitive landscape of aromatic chemical synthesis, ultimately supporting innovation pipelines and business growth.
Key Takeaways
- Broad Process Scope: The patent covers a versatile, efficient synthetic method applicable to various aromatic derivatives.
- Focus on Innovation: Claims emphasize improved reaction conditions—such as environmental friendliness and scalability.
- Strategic Positioning: Aligns with global trends toward sustainable chemistry and high-yield manufacturing.
- Competitive Landscape: Similar patents exist, but CN109999043’s specific catalysts and conditions provide distinct advantages.
- Valuable for Pharma: Facilitates cost-effective production of drug intermediates, supporting pharmaceutical R&D and commercialization.
FAQs
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What is the primary innovation of patent CN109999043?
It introduces a novel method for synthesizing functionalized aromatic compounds with enhanced efficiency, selectivity, and environmental benefits, centered on specific catalysts and reaction conditions.
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Does the patent cover specific chemical compounds or just the synthesis process?
The patent primarily claims the synthesis method, not specific compounds, though it may indirectly protect certain intermediates or derivatives produced by this process.
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Can the process described be applied to pharmaceutical manufacturing?
Yes, the process’s efficiency and scalability make it suitable for manufacturing aromatic intermediates used in pharmaceutical synthesis.
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How does this patent compare to similar patents globally?
It shares similarities with global patents focusing on aromatic functionalization but distinguishes itself with particular catalysts and reaction conditions optimized for the Chinese market.
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What strategic actions should patent holders consider?
They should evaluate opportunities for patent extensions, filing related claims on specific compounds, or license agreements to maximize commercial leverage.
Sources
[1] China Patent CN109999043, “Method for synthesizing a functionalized aromatic compound,” granted by SIPO, 2022.
