"Using Reaxys" Workshop Follow-up Q&A

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Many valuable questions were asked at the November 19th “Using Reaxys” workshop. Questions and answers of general interest are given below, for the benefit of new Reaxys users.
1. What distinguishes Reaxys?

  • It’s a “workflow tool for research chemists and related scientists” which organizes everything around chemical structures. It’s Web-based, intuitive, easy to use (unlike its predecessor Beilstein’s).
  • It includes the Markush structure.

2. Is Reaxys compatible with ChemDraw or other similar chemical structure editors?

  • Yes. You must import the chemical formula from the other database, and then you can save and refine the formula drawing.
  • You cannot cut and paste into the Reaxys window; different databases use different drawing structures.

3. Can you do a search using another Web browser while logged into Reaxys?

  • No, Reaxys will time out in 10 minutes.

4. Can you find information to purchase chemicals, molecules, etc.?

  • Yes, you can find information on companies which produce and sell such products. No pricing information is given.
  • Contact the appropriate company or pay for access to the database which provides price information.

5. Can you do a keyword combination search under for reactions involving two or more chemicals?

  • You must retrieve an “answer set” first for associated reactions. Then you can refine your search by utilizing keywords.
  • Your keywords will be highlighted in the resulting answer set.
  • You can backtrack by using the “breadcrumbs” at top.

6. Can Reaxys provide information on how to draw a specific structure using the drawing tool?

  • Try using the “explore substances” and substance identifier.
  • Technical structure drawing is not supported.
  • Contact the Reaxys Help Desk for assistance.

7. What browser works best with Reaxys?

  • Firefox is the approved browser.

8. Will an older version of Java work with the drawing tool in Reaxys?

  • Java should work for up to three versions back; older versions will not.

9 Can you import citations to Endnote / Reference Manager?

  • Yes. Save as text files under “Output Results” and use the feature.

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