Tetrabutylammonium azide, with the chemical formula C16H36N3, has the CAS number 993-22-6. It is a chemical compound that appears as a colorless to pale yellow solid. It has a faint odor. The basic structure of Tetrabutylammonium azide consists of a tetrabutylammonium cation and an azide anion. This compound is soluble in organic solvents such as methanol and acetonitrile, but it is insoluble in water. Tetrabutylammonium azide should be handled with care as it is a potentially explosive compound. It may cause skin and eye irritation, and it should be kept away from heat, sparks, and open flames. Proper protective equipment should be worn when handling this chemical.
Applicable Fields
Chemical Synthesis: Tetrabutylammonium azide is commonly used in organic synthesis as a reagent for the introduction of azide groups into organic molecules. It can be used in reactions such as the Staudinger reaction and the Curtius rearrangement. The mechanism of action in chemical synthesis involves the nucleophilic attack of the azide anion on electrophilic centers in the target molecule, leading to the formation of new bonds.
Explosives: Tetrabutylammonium azide can also be used as a component in explosive formulations. Its mechanism of action in this field involves its high reactivity and ability to release a large amount of energy upon decomposition. However, due to its explosive nature, strict safety precautions must be followed when handling and storing this compound.
Storage
Conditions: Store in a cool and dry place, away from heat sources and open flames.