N-(Phenylseleno)phthalimide
N-(Phenylseleno)phthalimide (CAS: 71098-88-9, Formula: C14H9NO2Se, Molar Mass: 302.19) is a key selenamide reagent utilised in sophisticated organic synthesis. It is particularly valuable for the selective derivatization of thiols, aiding in mass spectrometric analysis and the study of protein digests. This compound facilitates the introduction of the phenylseleno group into various organic molecules, including aldehydes, ketones, and alkenes, making it an important building block for complex molecule construction.

Thiol Derivatization for Analysis
N-(Phenylseleno)phthalimide selectively reacts with thiols, enabling their derivatization for enhanced detection and analysis via mass spectrometry. This method is applied to both free thiols and those present in protein digests.
Alpha-Selenenylation Reactions
This reagent is employed in catalytic reactions, such as those promoted by L-prolinamide, for the alpha-selenenylation of aldehydes and ketones. This process introduces a phenylseleno group adjacent to a carbonyl functional group.
Introduction of Phenylseleno Groups
It serves as a source for introducing the PhSe moiety into diverse organic substrates. Applications include the functionalization of protected glycals, ketones, aldehydes, stannanes, and exocyclic alkenes.
| Molecular weight | 302.19 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C14H9NO2Se |
| Grade | technical grade |
| Storage temperature | −20°C |
| Application | N-(Phenylseleno)phthalimide is a versatile selenamide reagent and has been used:• to selectively derivatize thiols for mass spectrometric analysis1• to derivatize thiol peptides in protein digests1• in L-prolinamide or pyrrolidine trifluoromethanesulfonamide promoted α-selenenylation reactions of aldehydes and ketones2• for introducing PhSe into protected glycals3, ketones4, aldehydes4, stannanes5 and exocyclic alkenes6 |
| Melting point | 181-184 °C(lit.) |



Hazard statements
- H301Toxic if swallowed
- H331Toxic if inhaled
- H373May cause damage to organs through prolonged exposure
- H410Very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P273Avoid release to the environment
- P301IF SWALLOWED
- P311Call a POISON CENTER or doctor
- P501Dispose of contents and container per local regulations
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Faceshields, Gloves, type P2 (EN 143) respirator cartridges |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 3283 6.1 / PGII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | T,N |
| Risk statements (R) | 23/25-33-50/53 |
| Safety statements (S) | 20/21-28-45-60-61 |
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 N-(Phenylseleno)phthalimide used for?
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N-(Phenylseleno)phthalimide is used as a versatile selenamide reagent for selective derivatization of thiols in analytical chemistry, protein digests, and in various alpha-selenenylation reactions of carbonyl compounds. It is also used for introducing phenylseleno groups into organic molecules like glycals, ketones, and alkenes.
What is the CAS number and formula for N-(Phenylseleno)phthalimide?
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The CAS number for N-(Phenylseleno)phthalimide is 71098-88-9, and its empirical formula is C14H9NO2Se.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies N-(Phenylseleno)phthalimide in a technical grade. We do not represent this product as meeting USP, BP, or EP pharmacopoeia standards.
How should N-(Phenylseleno)phthalimide be handled safely?
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N-(Phenylseleno)phthalimide is classified as acutely toxic if swallowed or inhaled and can cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure. It is also very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects. Handle with appropriate personal protective equipment, including a dust mask (type N95), eye shields, face shields, gloves, and P2 respirator cartridges, in a well-ventilated area.
Is N-(Phenylseleno)phthalimide a controlled substance?
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The provided data does not indicate that N-(Phenylseleno)phthalimide is a controlled substance.
How is N-(Phenylseleno)phthalimide packed and exported?
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N-(Phenylseleno)phthalimide is packed and shipped according to UN 3283 6.1 / PGII regulations for toxic solids. Tech Serve Solutions is a specialist global supplier and exporter of fine chemicals.
How can I request a quote or sample for N-(Phenylseleno)phthalimide?
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To request a quote or sample of N-(Phenylseleno)phthalimide, please contact our sales department via the website or by telephone.
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