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Product: 917-54-4 Methyllithium

Methyllithium, typ. 3 % solution in 2-Methyl-THF / Cumene

C-H3-Li

CAS Number:  917-54-4 EC Number:  213-026-4 REACH Number:  01-2120065574-52-0000, 01-2120065574-52-0001

Methyllithium (CAS 917-54-4) is an organolithium reagent with molecular formula CH3Li. It is supplied as a typical 3% solution in 2-Methyl-THF / Cumene.

Methyllithium is commonly used as a strong base or nucleophile in organic synthesis. Typical applications include alkylation, deprotonation and halogen-lithium exchange.

Methyllithium reacts readily with moisture and oxygen and should be handled under dry, inert conditions. Consult the SDS and site-specific procedures for compatible materials, fire response, and storage.

Physical and Chemical Properties
Property Value
IUPAC Name
methyllithium
Molecular Weight
21.98g/mol
Appearance
Liquid
Color
Clear Yellow
Flash Point
-10 °C (2-Methyltetrahydrofuran)
Boiling Point
78 °C (2-Methyltetrahydrofuran)
Density
0.867 g/cm3
Thermal Stability
No crystallization expected at low temperatures (> -15 °C) over some weeks

Applications

Alkylating and metalating agent.

Specifications

  • Methyllithium: 2.7 - 3.4 %
  • Cumyllithium: max. 1 Mol%
  • Heptane: max. 1%
  • MTHF/Methyllithium: 1,9 - 2,1 / 1
  • Appearance: yellow to amber solution

    Method of Analysis

    Determination of assay as total base by colorimetric titration. Determination of Cumyllithium, Heptane and MTHF/Methyllithium quotient by GC. Detailed description available on request.

    Handling Instructions

    Handling only under inert gas (nitrogen or argon). Protect from moisture and water. Product is spontaneously flammable in air. Wear personal protective equipment. Take precautionary measures against static discharge. Pay attention to official safety regulations (see also: “Transport regulations“ and “Marking“).

    Storage Instructions

    Keep container tightly closed in a dry, cool and well ventilated place Best in a cold- storage depot or refrigerator. Keep away from sources of ignition. Take precautionary measures against static discharges. When stored according to SDS the material has limited stability due to decomposition over time. We therefore recommend to retest the material 6 months after date of analysis if included on CoA. If not included, use the date of manufacturing for the calculation.

    Legal Disclaimer

    The information presented herein is believed to be accurate and reliable but is presented without guarantee or responsibility on the part of Albemarle Corporation and its subsidiaries and affiliates. It is the responsibility of the user to comply with all applicable laws and regulations and to provide for a safe workplace. The user should consider any health or safety hazards or information contained herein only as a guide and should take those precautions which are necessary or prudent to instruct employees and to develop work practice procedures in order to promote a safe work environment. Further, nothing contained herein shall be taken as an inducement or recommendation to manufacture or use any of the herein materials or processes in violation of existing or future patent.