Tetrabutylammonium azide
Tetrabutylammonium azide (CAS 993-22-6, C16H36N4) is a versatile quaternary ammonium salt with a molecular weight of 284.48 g/mol. It serves as a valuable reagent in organic synthesis, primarily for azidation reactions and diazo transfer. This compound is instrumental in forming carbon-heteroatom bonds and facilitating various transformations including oxidative processes and substitutions at boron centres. Stored under refrigeration, it is supplied by Tech Serve Solutions for research and development purposes.
- IUPAC
- N,N,N-Tributyl-1-butanaminium azide,Tetrabutylammonium nitride
- Synonyms
- Tetrabutylammonium nitrideN,N,N-Tributyl-1-butanaminium azide

Azidation and Diazo Transfer Reagent
Tetrabutylammonium azide is employed as an azide source for introducing the azide functional group into organic molecules. It is particularly useful for diazo transfer reactions, a key step in synthesising various nitrogen-containing heterocycles.
Synthesis of Heterocycles and Complex Molecules
This reagent facilitates the synthesis of specific complex structures, such as heteroarylannulated bicyclic morpholines and cyanimide-based enzyme inhibitors. It is also used in the preparation of trimethylene carbonate.
Oxidative Transformations
It acts as a reagent in the aerobic oxidative transformation of primary azides into nitriles, offering a controlled method for nitrile synthesis. Additionally, it plays a role in the formation of cyclic carbonates.
Boron Chemistry
Tetrabutylammonium azide is utilized in substitution reactions involving tetracoordinate boron compounds, expanding its utility in inorganic and organometallic synthesis.
| Molecular weight | 284.48 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C16H36N4 |
| Storage temperature | 2-8°C |
| Application | Reagent for synthesis of:• Heteroarylannulated bicyclic morpholines1• Cyanimide-based inhibitors of cathepsin C2• Trimethylene carbonate3Reagent for:• Aerobic oxidative transformation of primary azides to nitriles4• Substitution reactions at tetracoordinate boron5Catalyst for syslic carbonate formation6 |
| Melting point | 84-88 °C(lit.) |


Hazard statements
- H301Toxic if swallowed
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
- 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
- P305IF IN EYES
- P501Dispose of contents and container per local regulations
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, Gloves, type P2 (EN 143) respirator cartridges |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 2811 6.1/PG 3 |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | T,N |
| Risk statements (R) | 25-32-36/37/38-50/53 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-45-60-61 |
| Supplemental hazards | Contact with acids liberates very toxic gas. |
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 Tetrabutylammonium azide used for?
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Tetrabutylammonium azide (CAS 993-22-6) is used as a reagent in organic synthesis for azidation, diazo transfer, oxidative transformations, and substitution reactions, particularly in the synthesis of heterocycles and complex molecules.
What are the CAS number and formula for Tetrabutylammonium azide?
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The CAS number for Tetrabutylammonium azide is 993-22-6, and its molecular formula is C16H36N4.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Tetrabutylammonium azide as a research-grade chemical. The precise purity/assay is available on the Certificate of Analysis. We do not represent this product as meeting USP, BP, or EP pharmacopoeial standards.
How should Tetrabutylammonium azide be handled safely?
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Tetrabutylammonium azide is classified as Dangerous (GHS06, GHS09) and Toxic. It is harmful if swallowed, causes skin and serious eye irritation, and may cause respiratory irritation. Contact with acids liberates very toxic gas. Always use appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields, gloves, and a P2 respirator cartridge, and handle in a well-ventilated area. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet for detailed handling and emergency procedures.
Is Tetrabutylammonium azide a controlled substance?
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The provided data does not indicate that Tetrabutylammonium azide is a controlled substance.
How is Tetrabutylammonium azide shipped and exported?
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Tetrabutylammonium azide is shipped as UN 2811, Hazard Class 6.1, Packing Group III. As a global supplier, Tech Serve Solutions handles all necessary export documentation and complies with international shipping regulations for hazardous materials.
How can I request a quote or sample for Tetrabutylammonium azide?
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To request a quote or a sample of Tetrabutylammonium azide, please use the 'Request a Quote' or 'Sample Request' feature on our website, or contact our sales team directly with your inquiry, referencing the product name and CAS number.
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