Synhydrid ; Vitride ; Sodium bis(2-methoxyethoxy)aluminium hydride - 60% - SAFER LAH ALTERNATIVE

Sodium bis(2-methoxyethoxy)aluminium hydride
Other Names: Vitride®, Synhydrid®, Red-Al®, Sodium aluminium hydride complex (60% in toluene or THF)

CAS Number: 37187-66-9
Chemical Formula: C₄H₁₁AlNaO₂
Molar Mass: ~142.10 g/mol
Appearance: Clear to slightly yellowish liquid (solution in toluene or THF)

Sodium bis(2-methoxyethoxy)aluminium hydride, commercially known as Red-Al, is a versatile and safer alternative to lithium aluminium hydride (LiAlH₄) for hydride-based reductions. This organoaluminium compound is widely used in organic synthesis for the reduction of esters, acids, amides, nitriles, and other functional groups, offering excellent reactivity in a more stable and easier-to-handle liquid form.

Chemical and Physical Properties

• Physical State: Liquid (commonly in 60% solution with THF or toluene)

• Solubility: Miscible with organic solvents like THF, toluene, and ethers

• Reactivity: Reacts exothermically with water and protic solvents, releasing hydrogen gas

• Storage: Must be stored under an inert atmosphere (e.g., nitrogen or argon)

Applications

• Organic Synthesis:

  • Reduction of esters, acids, and amides to alcohols

  • Reduction of nitriles to amines

  • Selective reduction of functional groups in multi-step syntheses

• Pharmaceutical and Fine Chemical Manufacture: Useful in sensitive reductions where LiAlH₄ may be too reactive

• Research Laboratories: Employed for selective and cleaner reductions in academic and industrial R&D

SAFETY

Danger Hazard statement(s) H225 Highly flammable liquid and vapour. H260 In contact with water releases flammable gases which may ignite spontaneously. H301 + H311 Toxic if swallowed or in contact with skin. H304 May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways. Aldrich - 196193 Page 2 of 8 H315 Causes skin irritation. H318 Causes serious eye damage. H333 May be harmful if inhaled. H336 May cause drowsiness or dizziness. H361 Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child. H371 May cause damage to organs. H401 Toxic to aquatic life. Precautionary statement(s) P210 Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces. - No smoking. P223 Keep away from any possible contact with water, because of violent reaction and possible flash fire. P231 + P232 Handle under inert gas. Protect from moisture. P260 Do not breathe dust/ fume/ gas/ mist/ vapours/ spray. P280 Wear protective gloves/ eye protection/ face protection. P301 + P310 IF SWALLOWED: Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor/ physician. P305 + P351 + P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. P312 Call a POISON CENTER or doctor/ physician if you feel unwell. P331 Do NOT induce vomiting. P370 + P378 In case of fire: Use dry sand, dry chemical or alcohol-resistant foam for extinction. P422 Store contents under inert gas.

Handling and Storage
Store in a tightly closed container under inert atmosphere in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from water, alcohols, and oxidizers. Handle with appropriate safety measures, including use of flame-proof equipment and protective gear.