Chemical Properties
CLEAR SLIGHTLY YELLOW SOLUTION
Uses
Benzyltrimethylammonium hydroxide can be used:
- As a base in the synthesis of activated ynesulfonamides and tertiary enesulfonamides.
- In the synthesis of 3-indolyl-3-hydroxy oxindoles by treating isatin with indole.
- As a precursor for the preparation of quaternary ammonium acetate, benzyltrimethylammonium acetate (NBz111AcO). NBz111AcO solution in DMSO can be used to dissolve cellulose.
Uses
Benzyltrimethylammonium hydroxide is used as a phase-transfer catalyst. It is also used in aldol condensation reactions and base-catalyzed dehydration reactions. Further, it serves as a strong organic base and used in Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons olefination reactions. In addition, it is an active component in the formulation, which is used in silicon wafer cleaning applications.
Flammability and Explosibility
Not classified
Safety Profile
Poison by subcutaneous route. Astrong base. When heated to decomposition it emits toxicfumes of NH3 and NOx.
Purification Methods
A 38% solution (as supplied) is decolorized (charcoal), then evaporated under reduced pressure to a syrup, with final drying at 75o/1mm pressure. The anhydrous base is obtained by prolonged drying over P2O5 in a vacuum desiccator. [Beilstein 12 IV 2162.]
