Boron tribromide
Boron tribromide (BBr3), CAS 10294-33-4, is a colourless liquid with a molecular weight of 250.52 g/mol. This highly reactive Lewis acid is a potent brominating and deprotecting agent in organic synthesis. It is particularly effective for cleaving aryl methyl ethers, making it invaluable in the synthesis of complex organic molecules, including benzopyranobenzopyrans derived from coumarin scaffolds. Its rigorous purity ensures reliable performance in demanding chemical applications.
- IUPAC
- Tribromoboron

Ether Cleavage
Boron tribromide is extensively used to cleave aryl methyl ethers. This process is crucial in multi-step syntheses where protecting groups need to be selectively removed.
Organic Synthesis
As a versatile Lewis acid, BBr3 facilitates various organic transformations. It is employed in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals where precise deprotection is required.
Benzopyranobenzopyran Synthesis
Specifically documented for its role in the synthesis of benzopyranobenzopyrans from coumarin scaffolds, BBr3 enables the cleavage of ether linkages essential for forming these complex ring systems.
| Molecular weight | 250.52 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | BBr3 |
| Assay | 99.9% |
| Boiling point | ~90 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 1.467 g/mL at 25 °C |
| Concentration | 1.0 M in methylene chloride |
| Vapour pressure | 40 mmHg (14 °C) |
| Melting point | −46 °C(lit.) |
| Vapour density | 8.6 (vs air) |
| Application | Used to cleave aryl methyl ethers in a synthesis of a benzopyranobenzopyran from a coumarin scaffold.11 |


Hazard statements
- H300Fatal if swallowed
- H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
- H330Fatal if inhaled
Precautionary statements
- P260Do not breathe dust, fume, gas, mist, vapours or spray
- P264Wash thoroughly after handling
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P284Wear respiratory protection
- P301IF SWALLOWED
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, Goggles, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 91 °C / 195.8 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 2692 8 / PGI |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | T+,C |
| Risk statements (R) | 14-26/28-35 |
| Safety statements (S) | 9-26-28-36/37/39-45 |
| Supplemental hazards | Reacts violently with water. |
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 Boron tribromide used for?
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Boron tribromide (BBr3) is primarily used as a reagent in organic synthesis for cleaving aryl methyl ethers, particularly in the preparation of benzopyranobenzopyrans from coumarin scaffolds.
What are the CAS number and chemical formula for Boron tribromide?
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The CAS number for Boron tribromide is 10294-33-4, and its chemical formula is BBr3.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Boron tribromide with an assay of 99.9%. This product is not represented as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should Boron tribromide be handled safely?
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Boron tribromide is a dangerous substance that reacts violently with water. It is corrosive and toxic by inhalation and ingestion (H300-H314-H330). Handling requires extreme caution, appropriate personal protective equipment including face shields, respirators, gloves, and goggles, and should be conducted in a well-ventilated area.
Is Boron tribromide a controlled substance?
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The provided data does not indicate that Boron tribromide is a controlled substance.
How is Boron tribromide packaged and shipped?
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Boron tribromide is shipped according to UN 2692 regulations (Hazard Class 8, Packing Group I). Specific packaging details are available upon request.
How can I request a quote or sample of Boron tribromide?
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To request a quote or sample of Boron tribromide, please contact our sales team through the website or by phone.
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