Tetrabutylammonium acetate (CAS 10534-59-5)

Tetrabutylammonium acetate (TBAc) is a versatile quaternary ammonium salt widely used in organic synthesis and various scientific research applications. This colorless, odorless, and hygroscopic solid is soluble in both organic solvents and water. Its broad range of uses includes serving as a catalyst, chelating agent, and reagent for synthesizing diverse compounds. TBAc finds applications in fields such as biochemistry, pharmacology, and medicinal chemistry. In scientific research, TBAc plays a role as a catalyst, chelating agent, and reagent for compound synthesis. Its applications span the synthesis of organic compounds like polymers, dyes, and pharmaceuticals. It has been employed as a catalyst for peptide and protein synthesis, as well as for the synthesis of sugar derivatives. Additionally, TBAc has proven valuable in the production of various drugs, including antifungal agents, antibiotics, and anti-cancer agents. As a quaternary ammonium salt, TBAc acts as a Lewis acid and readily forms Lewis adducts with different substrates. It exhibits the ability to form hydrogen bonds with other molecules, allowing it to act as a chelating agent. Moreover, TBAc has demonstrated effectiveness in promoting ester hydrolysis, a critical step in numerous organic reactions. The alkynylation of carbonyl compounds with trimethylsilylacetylenes is a notable catalytic reaction facilitated by TBAc. This reaction leads to the formation of propargylic alcohols in good yields. TBAc′s catalytic properties make it particularly useful in this process.