Lithium Borohydride, typ. 10 % solution in THF
LiBH4
Lithium Borohydride (CAS 16949-15-8) is a complex metal hydride with molecular formula LiBH4. It is supplied as a solution in THF (typically 10%, ~4.1 M).
Lithium Borohydride is a selective reducing agent applied broadly in organic chemical synthesis. It enables selective reduction of esters, epoxides, ketones and aldehydes in the presence of other functional groups such as carboxylic acids, amides, nitriles, nitro groups, alkenes and halides.
Lithium Borohydride reacts readily with moisture and air and should be handled under dry, inert conditions. Consult the SDS and site-specific procedures for compatible materials, fire response, and storage.
Applications
Selective reduction of esters, epoxides, ketones and aldehydes in the presence of other functional groups such as carboxylic acids, amides, nitriles, nitro groups, alkenes and halides. The addition of a stoichiometric amount of methanol increases significantly the reducing power without largely affecting the selectivity.
Specifications
- Lithium Borohydride: 9.5 – 10.5 %
Method of Analysis
Volumetric determination of hydrogen evolved on hydrolysis. Detailed description available on request.Handling Instructions
The material should only be handled under inert gas atmosphere. Contact with air and moisture results in rapid decomposition. Contact with materials containing cellulose may lead to spontaneous combustion. Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors are heavier than air and may spread along floors. Flash back possible over considerable distance. Use only explosion-proof equipment. Protect from heat and direct sunlight. Never add water or oxidizing materials. Do not store near acids. In case of fire use dry extinguishers based on sodium chloride or limestone powder. Never use water, CO2 or foam. Pay attention to the Safety Data Sheet - Section 7.
Storage Instructions
When stored according to SDS the material is fairly stable. We still recommend to retest the material 12 month after date of analysis if included on CoA. If not included, use the date of manufacturing for the calculation. We recommend not to exceed a storage temperature of 25 °C.
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