Description
Specifications Table
Product Name – Diisobutylaluminium hydride, 1.2M (20 wt%) solution in toluene, AcroSeal®
Quantity/Pack Size – 100ML, 400ML, 800ML
Form – Liquid (solution in toluene)
Grade – Laboratory reagent grade
Application – Selective reduction of esters, carboxylic acids, and nitriles; hydride donor in organic synthesis
Product Overview
Diisobutylaluminium hydride (DIBAL-H) in toluene is a highly reactive organoaluminum compound supplied as a 1.2M solution (20 wt%) for precise hydride transfer reactions. The AcroSeal® packaging ensures air and moisture exclusion, preserving reagent integrity during storage and handling. This solution offers controlled reactivity compared to lithium aluminum hydride (LAH), enabling selective reductions of esters to aldehydes without over-reduction to alcohols. The toluene solvent provides optimal solubility for homogeneous reaction conditions, while the 1.2M concentration balances reactivity with ease of dosing. The reagent’s sterically hindered isobutyl groups enhance chemoselectivity, minimizing side reactions with functional groups like halides or alkenes. Designed for applications requiring strict anhydrous conditions, this DIBAL-H solution maintains consistent performance across batch-scale and high-throughput synthesis. The amber glass bottle with PTFE-lined cap prevents solvent evaporation and atmospheric contamination, ensuring long-term stability when stored under inert gas.
FAQs
1. What precautions should be taken when handling DIBAL-H in toluene?
DIBAL-H is pyrophoric and reacts violently with water. Always handle under inert atmosphere (argon/nitrogen) using air-free techniques. Wear flame-resistant lab coat, chemically resistant gloves, and safety goggles. Use in a well-ventilated fume hood with no ignition sources nearby. Quench excess reagent carefully with isopropanol or ethanol before aqueous workup.
2. How does the 1.2M concentration compare to other DIBAL-H solutions for selectivity?
The 1.2M concentration provides a balance between reactivity and control. Lower concentrations (e.g., 1.0M) may require longer reaction times, while higher concentrations (e.g., 1.5M) can reduce selectivity, especially in temperature-sensitive substrates. This concentration is optimized for partial reductions of esters to aldehydes at -78°C to 0°C without over-reduction.
3. Can this DIBAL-H solution be used with Lewis acid-sensitive substrates?
DIBAL-H is a mild Lewis acid compared to LAH, but it can still coordinate with Lewis basic sites. For highly sensitive substrates, consider pre-complexation with additives like HMPA or DMPU to modulate reactivity. Test on small scale first, as coordination may alter reduction rates or selectivity.
4. What is the typical shelf life of unopened DIBAL-H in toluene?
When stored unopened under inert gas at 2–8°C, the reagent retains ≥98% of its labeled concentration for 12–18 months. Avoid temperature fluctuations and exposure to light, which can accelerate solvent evaporation or decomposition. Always verify the solution’s clarity and color (should be pale yellow) before use.
5. Are there alternatives to toluene as a solvent for DIBAL-H reductions?
Toluene is preferred for its inertness and optimal solubility, but hexanes or dichloromethane can be used for specific applications. Hexanes may require slight warming for solubility, while DCM can enhance reactivity in certain cases. Solvent choice may impact reaction temperature and selectivity, so optimize based on substrate.
