Tri-n-butylphosphine
Tri-n-butylphosphine (CAS: 998-40-3), with the molecular formula [CH3(CH2)3]3P and a molar mass of 202.32 g/mol, is a key organophosphorus compound. It is widely recognised for its utility as a ligand in catalysis and as a reagent in organic synthesis. Its applications include acting as an acylation catalyst, a 1,4-addition catalyst, and in the preparation of active esters. This compound is supplied by TSS with a minimum assay of 97%.
- IUPAC
- NSC 91700,P(n-Bu)3,TBP,Tributylphosphine
![Tri-n-butylphosphine ([CH3(CH2)3]3P) — chemical structure, CAS 998-40-3; Chemistry, fine chemical supplied by Tech Serve Solutions](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpub-f4d920c906024441a773a96f7098e551.r2.dev%2Fimages%2Fproducts%2F998-40-3.png&w=3840&q=75)
Catalysis in Organic Synthesis
Tri-n-butylphosphine functions as a versatile catalyst in various organic transformations. It is employed as a 1,4-addition catalyst and an acylation catalyst, facilitating key bond-forming reactions.
Active Ester Preparation
This phosphine compound is utilised in the synthesis of active esters, which are important intermediates in peptide synthesis and other esterification processes.
Thioetherification of Alcohols
In conjunction with disulfides, Tri-n-butylphosphine is used to promote the thioetherification of alcohols, a reaction crucial for introducing sulfur functionalities into organic molecules.
| Molecular weight | 202.32 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | [CH3(CH2)3]3P |
| Assay | 97% |
| Boiling point | 150 °C/50 mmHg(lit.) |
| Density | 0.81 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.462(lit.) |
| Concentration | 200 mM (in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone) |
| Vapour density | 9 (vs air) |
| Autoignition temp | 392 °F |
| Application | 1,4-addition catalyst; used with disulfides for the thioetherification of alcohols; acylation catalyst; used to prepare active esters. |
Hazard statements
- H226Flammable liquid and vapour
- H250Catches fire spontaneously if exposed to air
- H302Harmful if swallowed
- H312Harmful in contact with skin
- H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
Precautionary statements
- P222Do not allow contact with air
- P231Handle under inert gas
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P305IF IN EYES
- P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor
- P422
| Protective equipment | Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, Goggles, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 37 °C / 98.6 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 3254 4.2 / PGI |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | F,C |
| Risk statements (R) | 17-21/22-34 |
| Safety statements (S) | 17-26-36/37/39-43-45 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Ligand For | AcetylationsAddition ReactionsStille Coupling |
|---|
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 Tri-n-butylphosphine used for?
+
Tri-n-butylphosphine is used as a 1,4-addition catalyst, with disulfides for the thioetherification of alcohols, as an acylation catalyst, and to prepare active esters.
What is the CAS number and molecular formula for Tri-n-butylphosphine?
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The CAS number is 998-40-3 and the molecular formula is [CH3(CH2)3]3P.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Tri-n-butylphosphine with a minimum assay of 97%. This is typically a technical or research grade and TSS does not represent it as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should Tri-n-butylphosphine be handled safely?
+
Tri-n-butylphosphine is a flammable liquid and vapour (H226) and pyrophoric (H250), meaning it can ignite spontaneously in air. It is also harmful if swallowed (H302) and in contact with skin (H312), and causes severe skin burns and eye damage (H314). Handle with extreme care, under an inert atmosphere, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment including gloves, eye protection, and respiratory protection.
How is Tri-n-butylphosphine packed and shipped?
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Tri-n-butylphosphine is shipped as a hazardous material under UN 3254, Class 4.2 (Substances liable to spontaneous combustion), Packing Group I. TSS ensures compliant packaging and export procedures for this regulated chemical.
How can I request a quote or sample of Tri-n-butylphosphine?
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To request a quote or a sample, please contact our sales team via the website or direct inquiry, providing your specific requirements.
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