Lithium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide
Lithium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide (CAS: 4039-32-1), with the formula [(CH3)3Si]2NLi and a molecular weight of 167.33 g/mol, is a potent organic base. It is highly reactive and primarily employed in organic synthesis. Key applications include generating enolates for the synthesis of lactone and pyranone precursors, and catalysing the addition of phosphine P-H bonds to carbodiimides.
- IUPAC
- Hexamethyldisilazane lithium salt
- Synonyms
- Hexamethyldisilazane lithium salt
![Lithium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide ([(CH3)3Si]2NLi) — chemical structure, CAS 4039-32-1; Chemistry, fine chemical supplied by Tech Serve Solutions](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpub-f4d920c906024441a773a96f7098e551.r2.dev%2Fimages%2Fproducts%2F4039-32-1.png&w=3840&q=75)
Enolate Generation for Synthesis
This strong, non-nucleophilic base is instrumental in generating enolates, which are crucial intermediates in the preparation of various organic compounds such as lactone precursors, pyranones, and cyclohexanes.
Catalysis of Phosphine Additions
Lithium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide serves as a catalyst in the addition of phosphine P-H bonds across carbodiimides, facilitating the formation of phosphaguanidines.
Synthesis of Heterocycles
It is utilized in novel synthetic routes, including a specific three-step synthesis leading to the formation of disubstituted 1,2,5-thiadiazoles.
| Molecular weight | 167.33 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | [(CH3)3Si]2NLi |
| Assay | 97% |
| Density | 0.860 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Concentration | 1.0 M in THF |
| Application | Base employed in generating enolates for the preparation of lactone precursors,1 pyranones,2 and cyclohexanes.3Used to catalyze the addition of phosphine P-H bonds to carbodiimides leading to phosphaguanidines.4 Also used in a novel three-step synthesis of disubstituted 1,2,5-thiadiazoles.5 |


Hazard statements
- H228Flammable solid
- H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
Precautionary statements
- P210Keep away from heat, sparks and open flames. No smoking
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P305IF IN EYES
- P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face particle respirator type N100 (US), Gloves, respirator cartridge type N100 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter, type P3 (EN 143) respirator cartridges |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 2925 4.1/PG 2 |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | F,C |
| Risk statements (R) | 11-14-34 |
| Safety statements (S) | 16-26-36/37/39-43-45 |
| 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 Lithium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide used for?
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Lithium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide is primarily used as a strong, non-nucleophilic base in organic synthesis. It is employed in generating enolates for the preparation of lactone precursors, pyranones, and cyclohexanes, and it also catalyses the addition of phosphine P-H bonds to carbodiimides.
What is the CAS number and chemical formula for Lithium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide?
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The CAS number is 4039-32-1 and the chemical formula is [(CH3)3Si]2NLi.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Lithium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide with a minimum assay of 97%. This product is supplied for laboratory and research purposes and is not represented as USP, BP, EP, or pharmacopoeia grade.
How should Lithium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide be handled safely?
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Lithium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide is a flammable solid and corrosive substance that reacts violently with water. Handle with extreme caution in a well-ventilated area, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment including eyeshields, gloves, and respiratory protection. Avoid contact with water and incompatible materials.
Is Lithium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide flammable?
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Yes, Lithium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide is classified as a flammable solid (H228) and should be handled with appropriate precautions to prevent ignition.
How is this chemical shipped and exported?
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This chemical is shipped and exported according to international regulations for hazardous materials. For specific shipping details and export capabilities, please contact our sales team.
How can I request a sample or quote for Lithium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide?
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To request a sample or a quotation, please navigate to the product page and utilise the 'Request Sample' or 'Get Quote' functions, or contact our dedicated sales department directly.
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