2-Hydroxymethyl-18-crown-6
2-Hydroxymethyl-18-crown-6 (CAS 70069-04-4), with the empirical formula C13H26O7 and a molecular weight of 294.34 g/mol, is a substituted crown ether. This compound functions as a highly effective complexing agent, particularly for alkali and alkaline earth metal cations, due to the specific cavity size of the 18-crown-6 ring. It finds utility in chemical synthesis and separation processes requiring selective ion binding.
- IUPAC
- 1,4,7,10,13,16-Hexaoxacyclooctadecane-2-methanol,18-Crown-6-methanol
- Synonyms
- 1,4,7,10,13,16-Hexaoxacyclooctadecane-2-methanol

Selective Ion Complexation
2-Hydroxymethyl-18-crown-6 excels at forming stable complexes with various metal cations, including potassium and sodium ions. Its crown ether structure provides a specific cavity for ion encapsulation, facilitating their dissolution or extraction in different solvent systems.
Chemical Synthesis Reagent
As a synthetic reagent, this compound can be employed in organic synthesis to activate anions by complexing the counter-cation, thereby increasing their nucleophilicity. This is particularly useful in reactions involving poorly soluble salts.
Phase Transfer Catalysis
The ability of 2-Hydroxymethyl-18-crown-6 to transport cations across phase boundaries makes it a valuable phase transfer catalyst. It can facilitate reactions between reagents located in immiscible phases, such as aqueous and organic layers.
| Molecular weight | 294.34 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C13H26O7 |
| Assay | 95% |
| Boiling point | 150 °C/0.5 mmHg(lit.) |
| Density | 1.174 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.479(lit.) |

Hazard statements
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 113 °C / 235.4 °F |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is 2-Hydroxymethyl-18-crown-6 used for?
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2-Hydroxymethyl-18-crown-6 is primarily used for selective ion complexation, especially with alkali and alkaline earth metal cations. It also serves as a reagent in chemical synthesis and as a phase transfer catalyst.
What are the CAS number and molecular formula for 2-Hydroxymethyl-18-crown-6?
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The CAS number for 2-Hydroxymethyl-18-crown-6 is 70069-04-4, and its molecular formula is C13H26O7.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies 2-Hydroxymethyl-18-crown-6 with an assay of 95%. This is a technical or research grade, and TSS does not represent it as USP, BP, or EP grade.
What are the safety and handling precautions for 2-Hydroxymethyl-18-crown-6?
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This compound is classified with a Warning signal word and carries hazard statements H315 (causes skin irritation), H319 (causes serious eye irritation), and H335 (may cause respiratory irritation). Appropriate personal protective equipment includes eyeshields, gloves, and a suitable respirator. Handle in a well-ventilated area.
Is 2-Hydroxymethyl-18-crown-6 a controlled substance?
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The provided safety data does not indicate that 2-Hydroxymethyl-18-crown-6 is a controlled substance.
How is 2-Hydroxymethyl-18-crown-6 packed, shipped, and exported?
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Tech Serve Solutions securely packs and ships chemicals in compliance with all relevant international regulations for export.
How can I request a quote or sample for 2-Hydroxymethyl-18-crown-6?
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To request a quote or sample, please contact the TSS sales team via the website or direct enquiry form, providing your contact details and the product of interest.
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