Potassium 2-isocyanoacetate
Potassium 2-isocyanoacetate (CAS 58948-98-4), with the chemical formula C3H2KNO2 and a molecular weight of 123.15 g/mol, is a valuable organic building block. This isocyanide compound serves as a key reagent in various synthetic transformations. Its primary applications include facilitating carbene insertion reactions for catalyst removal, preparing carbonyl complexes of group IVB metals, and enabling peptide synthesis through the Ugi reaction.
- IUPAC
- Isocyanoacetic acid potassium salt
- Synonyms
- Isocyanoacetic acid potassium salt

Carbene Insertion Reactions
Potassium 2-isocyanoacetate acts as a reagent in carbene insertion reactions. This process is particularly useful as a cleanup procedure to effectively remove ruthenium carbene catalysts from metathesis reaction products.
Preparation of Carbonyl Complexes
This compound is employed in the synthesis of carbonyl complexes. Specifically, it is used in the preparation of these complexes involving group IVB metals, contributing to organometallic chemistry research and development.
Peptide Synthesis
Utilising ammonium chloride as a promoter, Potassium 2-isocyanoacetate plays a role in the Ugi reaction. This application is significant for the preparation of peptides, a crucial area in medicinal chemistry and biochemistry.
| Molecular weight | 123.15 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C3H2KNO2 |
| Assay | 85% |
| Grade | technical grade |
| Application | Reagent for:• Carbene insertion reactions as a cleanup procedure to remove ruthenium carbene catalysts from metathesis reaction products1• Preparation of carbonyl complexes of group IVB metals2• Preparation of peptides via ammonium chloride-promoted Ugi reaction3 |
| Melting point | 75-81 °C |

Hazard statements
- H302Harmful if swallowed
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 3335 |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xn |
| Risk statements (R) | 20/21/22-36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36/37 |
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 Potassium 2-isocyanoacetate used for?
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Potassium 2-isocyanoacetate is used as a reagent in carbene insertion reactions for catalyst removal, in the preparation of carbonyl complexes of group IVB metals, and in the synthesis of peptides via the Ugi reaction.
What are the CAS number and formula for Potassium 2-isocyanoacetate?
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The CAS number for Potassium 2-isocyanoacetate is 58948-98-4, and its chemical formula is C3H2KNO2.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Potassium 2-isocyanoacetate in technical grade with an assay of 85%. This product is not represented as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should Potassium 2-isocyanoacetate be handled safely?
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Potassium 2-isocyanoacetate is a Warning substance (GHS07) and is harmful if swallowed, in contact with skin, or if inhaled. It causes skin irritation, serious eye irritation, and may cause respiratory irritation. Appropriate personal protective equipment, including a dust mask (type N95), eyeshields, and gloves, should be used. Handle in a well-ventilated area, avoiding dust formation.
How is Potassium 2-isocyanoacetate packed, shipped, and exported?
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Tech Serve Solutions ensures that Potassium 2-isocyanoacetate is appropriately packed for safe transport and is equipped to export globally. Specific packaging details are confirmed upon order.
How can I request a sample or quote for Potassium 2-isocyanoacetate?
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To request a sample or a quote for Potassium 2-isocyanoacetate, please contact our sales department through the website or by phone.
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