Description
Specifications Table
Product Name – Lithium tris[(3-ethyl-3-pentyl)oxy]aluminohydride, 0.5M solution in THF, AcroSeal® Quantity/Pack Size – 100ML Form – Liquid (THF solution) Grade – Reagent Grade Application – Selective reductions, organic synthesis, aldehyde/ketone conversions
Product Overview
Lithium tris[(3-ethyl-3-pentyl)oxy]aluminohydride (Lithium Tris) is a highly selective reducing agent supplied as a 0.5M solution in anhydrous tetrahydrofuran (THF) under the AcroSeal® packaging system to ensure maximum stability and moisture protection. This organoaluminum hydride reagent offers controlled reactivity, making it ideal for chemoselective reductions where traditional LiAlH₄ may be too aggressive. The bulky alkoxide ligands modify the hydride’s nucleophilicity, enabling preferential reduction of aldehydes and ketones while preserving sensitive functional groups like esters, amides, and nitro compounds. The THF solvent system enhances solubility and reaction homogeneity, while the AcroSeal® packaging prevents atmospheric contamination during storage and handling. This reagent is particularly valued in multi-step organic synthesis where functional group compatibility is critical. The 0.5M concentration provides an optimal balance between reagent activity and ease of dosing, with the solution remaining stable under inert conditions. As a moisture-sensitive compound, it requires handling under dry nitrogen or argon atmosphere to maintain its reducing capability. The reagent’s performance is consistent across batch-to-batch when stored properly at recommended temperatures.
FAQs
1. What is the typical reduction selectivity of this Lithium Tris reagent compared to LiAlH₄?
This reagent shows much higher selectivity for carbonyl reductions while tolerating esters, amides, and nitro groups that LiAlH₄ would typically reduce. The bulky alkoxide ligands sterically hinder the aluminum center, making it less reactive toward less electrophilic functional groups.
2. Can this solution be used directly without further dilution for most reactions?
The 0.5M concentration is designed for direct use in most laboratory-scale reactions, though some highly sensitive substrates may benefit from slight dilution with anhydrous THF to improve reaction control and selectivity.
3. What are the storage requirements to maintain the reagent’s activity?
Store unopened bottles at 2-8°C under inert atmosphere. Once opened, keep tightly sealed under dry nitrogen or argon and use within 6 months for optimal performance, as THF solutions gradually decompose upon exposure to air and moisture.
4. How does the AcroSeal® packaging enhance this product’s performance?
The AcroSeal® system features a specialized septum and bottle design that minimizes air exposure during repeated needle punctures, maintaining the reagent’s anhydrous conditions and preventing oxidative degradation that would compromise its reducing power.
5. What safety precautions are essential when handling this reagent?
Always handle in a well-ventilated fume hood with proper PPE, as the reagent is pyrophoric when exposed to air and reacts violently with water. Use only with dry, inert solvents and equipment, and have appropriate fire extinguishing media (like dry chemical or CO₂) readily available.
