SODIUM BOROHYDRIDE

SODIUM BOROHYDRIDE is a water soluble reducing agent exhibiting unique properties in organic synthesis. NaBH₄ is used directly to reduce aldehydes, ketones, acid chlorides and anhydrides, but also in a derived form for acid/ester reductions and for dehalogenations. Also, NaBH₄ is the precursor for the industrial production of boranes, a product group which includes reducing agents, drivers of stereoselectivity, and higher organoboranes.
Within the market of metal hydride reductions in organic synthesis, borohydrides are the primary reductants used on industrial scale. Some of the benefits of using borohydride chemistry include:

• The least expensive metal hydride commercially available (on a hydride equivalent basis)
• Safe with regards to storage and use & handling
• Industrial implementation requires no or limited equipment investment
• Ease of work-up (water soluble boron salts)
• Ubiquitous solvents such as water and methanol are typically employed
• Unique and versatile as a hydride reducing agent for both chemo- and diastereo-selectivity

VENPURE Solution is also used for the improvement of contamination profiles of finished products, metal recovery, waste water treatment and inorganic synthesis.

VENPURE Solution contains 12% by weight sodium borohydride. Under ideal reaction conditions, one mole (37.8 g) of NaBH₄ will reduce four moles of an aldehyde or ketone to the corresponding alcohol:

• NaBH₄ + 4R₂C=O + 4H₂O → 4R₂CHOH + NaB(OH)₄

Thus, 1.8 kg VENPURE Solution will theoretically reduce 1 kg of acetaldehyde to ethanol. The rate and efficiency of VENPURE reactions depend upon type and concentration of reactants, temperature, and pH. One of the most important parameters in the efficient use of VENPURE Solution is pH control: reductions should be carried out at a pH of 10 or higher. If the pH is below 10, the VENPURE efficiency may decrease due to solvolysis:

• NaBH₄ + 4H₂O → 4H₂ + NaB(OH)₄

Ascensus sells borohydride products as part of a comprehensive Product and Services package, including:

• The highest product quality
• Broad range of product grades
• Formulations stable under various transport conditions
• The availability of a choice of package sizes
• Technical advice with regards to both the safe handling and the cost-efficient synthetic use.

VENPURE Solution, like 50% Caustic Soda Solution (NaOH), is very corrosive to the skin and eyes and should be handled according to generally accepted procedures for corrosive chemicals. In case of accidental contact, flush skin and/or eyes with copious amounts of water and seek immediate medical attention.

• VENPURE Solution has been classed as a ‘corrosive liquid’ under DOT regulations.
• VENPURE Solution is a corrosive material (EPA hazardous waste #D002) and must be disposed accordingly. VENPURE Solution can be disposed of (hydrolyzed) by initial dilution with a large excess of water, followed by treatment with low concentration acid. This procedure should be performed in a well ventilated area. Provisions should be made to safely vent hydrogen gas given off during neutralization. VENPURE Solution should not be flushed to the sewer.
• In case of accidental spillage, absorb the VENPURE Solution with an inert material such as sand or dolomite. Absorbed material should be disposed according to applicable waste regulations.
• Any vessels which have been used for reactions or storage of VENPURE Solution should be carefully vented, drained, washed, and adequately flushed with nitrogen and air before any repair operations are undertaken. Exposure to an open flame (e.g., welding torch) should be avoided.

VENPURE Solution is available in an ample choice of packaging types, such as metal pails and drums, mini bulk containers, and tank trucks or railway cars for bulk quantities.