Potassiumt-Butoxide

[865-47-4] C4H9KO (MW 112.23) (strong alkoxide base capable of deprotonating many carbon and other Brϕnsted acids; relatively poor nucleophile1) Physical Data: mp 256–258 °C (dec). Solubility: sol/100g solvent at 25–26 °C: hexane 0.27 g, toluene 2.27 g, ether 4.34 g, t-BuOH 17.80 g, THF 25.00 g. Form Supplied in: white, hygroscopic powder; widely available commercially; also available as a 1.0 M solution in THF. Preparative Methods: sublimation (220 °C/1 mmHg; 180 °C/0.05 mmHg) of the commercial material prior to use is recommended. For critical experiments, the reagent should be freshly prepared prior to use. Solutions of the reagent in t-BuOH may be prepared by reaction of the anhydrous alcohol with Potassium under nitrogen,2 or the solvent may be removed (finally at 150 °C/0.1–1.0 mmHg for 2 h) and solutions prepared using other solvents.3 Handling, Storage, and Precautions: do not breathe dust; avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing. Reacts with water, oxygen, and carbon dioxide, and may ignite on exposure to air at elevated temperatures. Handle in an inert atmosphere box or bag and conduct reactions under an inert atmosphere in a fume hood. Store in small lots in sealed containers under nitrogen.