What is Diethyl Azodicarboxylate and How is it Used?

Identification

Product Name: Diethyl azodicarboxylate

Synonyms: Diazenedicarboxylic acid, diethyl ester; Diethoxycarbonyldiazene; Diethyl (E)-1,2-diazenedicarboxylate; Diethyl diazodicarboxylate; dlethylazodicarboxylate; Ethyl azodicarboxylate; Formic acid, azodi-, diethyl ester; DIETHYL AZODIFORMATE

CAS: 1972-28-7

MF: C6H10N2O4

MW: 174.15

EINECS: 217-821-7

Structure

Properties

Melting point: 6°C

Boiling point: 106°C (13 mmHg)

Density: 1.106

Refractive index: n20/D 1.47

Fp: 85°C

Storage temp.: 2-8°C

Solubility: Miscible with dichloromethane, diethyl ether, and toluene.

Sensitive: Air Sensitive

Application

Diethyl azodicarboxylate is a versatile compound used as a liquid blowing agent and pharmaceutical intermediate. It is also employed as a vinyl resin liquid foaming agent, contributing to the production of light-colored vinyl foamed plastics with a uniform microporous structure. Additionally, it finds applications as a medicine intermediate and organic synthetic reagent.

Purification Methods

To purify DEAD, dissolve it in toluene and wash it with 10% NaHCO3 until neutral. Subsequently, wash with H2O (2x), dry over Na2SO4, filter, and evaporate the toluene. Distill the remaining substance through a short Vigreux column at a high vacuum. The main portion boils at 107-111o/15mm. Due to its explosive nature, it is crucial to use an oil bath for heating and perform all operations behind a sufficient shield.