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Product: 21369-64-2 N Hexyllithium

n-Hexyllithium, typ. 33 % solution in Hexane (typ. 2.5 M)

C6H13Li

CAS Number:  21369-64-2 EC Number:  404-950-0 REACH Number:  01-0000015449-63-0000

n-Hexyllithium (CAS 21369-64-2) is a lithium alkyl with molecular formula C6H13Li. It is provided as a typ. 33% solution in Hexane (typ. 2.5 M) and has a clear yellow appearance.

n-Hexyllithium is a strong base and is commonly used for deprotonations and for alkylations. It has advantages in industrial synthetic applications as it avoids the formation of gaseous by-products.

n-Hexyllithium 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
lithium hexane
Molecular Weight
92.11g/mol
Appearance
Liquid
Color
Clear Yellow
Flash Point
< -20 °C (Hexane)
Boiling Point
55 - 85 °C (Hexane)
Density
ca. 0.69 g/cm3 at 20 °C
Solubility in Water
(Not applicable)

Applications

Alkylating and metalating agent, without formation of gaseous by-products. Initiator for olefin polymerization.

Specifications

Chemical analysis:
  • active LiC6H13 32.8 - 33.2 % (2.5 M)
  • free base *) max. 0.8 %
  • Cl (covalent) max. 0.1 %
  • *) mainly LiOC6H13
  • Total base: titration of base resulting from hydrolysis.
  • Composition of solvent:
  • abt. 8 % pentanes
  • abt. 91 % hexanes
  • abt. 1 % heptanes
  • abt. 0.01 % aromatics

Handling Instructions

Under exclusion of air and humidity the solution is fairly stable. Decomposition does not cause pressure build-up. Keep container tightly closed. Keep away from sources of ignition. Take precautionary measures against static discharges. Handling only under inert gas (nitrogen or argon). Product is spontaneously flammable in air. Increase in concentration due to evaporation of solvent results in rising of danger of self-ignition. Pay attention to official safety regulations (see also: “Transport regulations“ and “GHS Hazard Pictograms“). Please ask for our brochure “Handling of Butyllithium“.

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.