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Tributylborane

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Identification
Molecular formula
C12H27B
CAS number
109-69-3
IUPAC name
tributylborane
State
State

At room temperature, tributylborane is in a liquid state. Due to its reactive nature with air and water, it is typically handled under an inert atmosphere such as nitrogen or argon.

Melting point (Celsius)
-95.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
178.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
141.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
414.15
General information
Molecular weight
198.18g/mol
Molar mass
198.1800g/mol
Density
0.8360g/cm3
Appearence

Tributylborane is a clear, colorless liquid that may appear slightly hazy. It possesses a faint aromatic odor. The liquid is generally stored in moisture-free environments to prevent reaction with water.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Tributylborane

Tributylborane, with the chemical formula B(C4H9)3, exhibits unique solubility characteristics that are noteworthy in the field of chemistry. Its solubility can be described as follows:

  • Non-polar Nature: Being a boron compound with long hydrocarbon chains, tributylborane is predominantly non-polar.
  • Solvent Compatibility: It is soluble in non-polar solvents such as hexane, heptane, and other similar aliphatic hydrocarbons.
  • Poor Solubility in Water: Due to its non-polar structure, tributylborane displays very low solubility in water, highlighting the principle of “like dissolves like”.

Furthermore, it is essential to note that spatial structure and molecular interactions play significant roles in solubility. For tributylborane, the bulky tributyl groups hinder strong interactions with polar solvents, thereby limiting its solubility in such media.

In summary, tributylborane's solubility aligns with its hydrophobic properties, making it more compatible with non-polar solvents while being largely insoluble in water.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Tributylborane

Tributylborane is a fascinating organoboron compound that plays a significant role in organic chemistry and synthesis. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Versatile Reagent: Tributylborane is widely used as a reducing agent in organic synthesis. It can effectively reduce functional groups such as carbonyls and imines, making it a valuable tool in the organic chemist's arsenal.
  • Formation of the C-B Bond: The compound is known for its ability to form stable carbon-boron bonds, which are essential in the creation of various organoboron intermediates. This characteristic has led to its utility in the formation of C-C bonds through cross-coupling reactions.
  • Application in Organometallic Chemistry: Tributylborane is indispensable in organometallic chemistry, especially in reactions involving nucleophilic boron species. It acts as a boron source for generating important compounds that significantly impact various chemical transformations.
  • Safe and Non-Toxic: Compared to other organoboron derivatives, tributylborane is regarded as less toxic and safer to handle, making it suitable for both laboratory and industrial applications.
  • Research in Catalysis: Ongoing research is exploring the use of tributylborane in catalysis, as it can enhance reaction rates and selectivity, which is vital for developing sustainable practices in chemical manufacturing.

As a chemist, understanding the unique properties and applications of tributylborane allows for innovative thinking in experimentation and synthesis. As stated by renowned chemist, "The exploration of organoboron compounds is like unlocking new doors to synthetic possibilities."

From its reactivity to its applications in various synthetic routes, tributylborane remains an important compound that continues to inspire scientific discovery and advancement.

Synonyms
Tributylborane
122-56-5
BORANE, TRIBUTYL-
Tri-n-butylborane
Tributylborine
DTXSID9059543
RefChem:190787
DTXCID2033730
204-554-6
Tri-n-butyl borane
Tributylboron
Tributylborane (1.0 M in THF)
Tri-n-butylboron
CCRIS 4133
EINECS 204-554-6
BRN 1738107
TBB; Tri-n-butylborane; Tri-n-butylboron; Tributylboron;
tributyl-borane
Tributyl borane
SCHEMBL1237
(n-C4H9)3B
BCP18543
MFCD00009423
AKOS015918440
DB-041673
NS00023992
A804918