🧪 HEX-EN

🧪 HEX-EN (N-Ethylhexedrone – 2-(Ethylamino)-1-phenylhexan-1-one)

Forensic and Analytical Overview

1. Chemical Identification

Common name: HEX-EN
Systematic name: 2-(Ethylamino)-1-phenylhexan-1-one
Chemical class: Cathinone derivative (β-keto-amphetamine class)
Molecular formula: C₁₄H₂₁NO
Molecular weight: ~219.33 g/mol
Structural relation: Structural analogue of pentedrone and α-PVP, featuring an N-ethyl substitution and extended alkyl side chain.

2. Background

N-Ethylhexedrone (HEX-EN) emerged in the mid-2010s as a synthetic cathinone and structural analogue of controlled stimulants.
It has been reported in forensic and toxicological literature in association with seized material analysis and metabolite identification.
Although related to compounds with stimulant activity, HEX-EN is not approved for medical or human use and is restricted in numerous jurisdictions.

In forensic and research contexts, HEX-EN serves as a reference material to support analytical method development and structural elucidation studies of substituted cathinones.

3. Analytical Characterization

Analytical methods used for HEX-EN include:

• Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS)

• Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC–MS)

• Infrared (IR) Spectroscopy

• Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy

• High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (HRMS)

Characteristic GC–MS fragmentation patterns (notably m/z 58, 105, and 119) and IR carbonyl absorption allow differentiation from structurally related β-keto analogues.

4. Research and Forensic Relevance

HEX-EN is primarily used in:

• Analytical reference and forensic identification of cathinones

• Toxicological screening method development

• Structural comparison among substituted stimulants

• Production of certified reference materials for laboratory testing

5. Legal and Safety Notes

Status: Controlled or listed under analogue legislation in many regions.
Handling: Restricted to licensed laboratories and qualified research personnel.
Storage: Store securely in a cool, dry, light-protected environment.
Safety: Employ PPE, avoid exposure, and dispose of via approved chemical waste protocols.

6. Summary

HEX-EN (N-Ethylhexedrone) is a synthetic cathinone analogue encountered in forensic investigations and analytical chemistry research.
It supports the development of analytical techniques and contributes to the classification and monitoring of novel stimulant substances.

⚠️ For Research Use Only / Not for Human Consumption
Not intended for medical, veterinary, or household applications.
Use by qualified laboratory professionals only