Aicaigou LogoB2B Wiki

Benzyl Azide

Updated: 2026-08-14

Overview

Benzyl azide is an organic azide compound with the chemical formula C7H7N3. It is a versatile reagent in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of heterocyclic compounds and pharmaceutical intermediates. The compound is known for its high reactivity, making it a valuable building block in click chemistry reactions, especially the copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC). Due to its explosive nature, benzyl azide must be handled with extreme care. It is typically stored in small quantities under controlled conditions to minimize risks. Despite its hazards, its utility in synthesizing complex molecules has made it an indispensable tool in medicinal chemistry and materials science.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Benzyl azide is a colorless to pale yellow liquid at room temperature with a density of 1.08 g/cm³. It is soluble in common organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and acetone but insoluble in water. The compound is thermally unstable and may decompose explosively when heated above 150°C or subjected to mechanical shock. Its molecular structure consists of a benzyl group (C6H5CH2-) attached to an azide functional group (-N3), which is responsible for its high reactivity. The azide group can participate in various reactions, including cycloadditions and nucleophilic substitutions, making benzyl azide a versatile intermediate in synthetic chemistry.

Main Applications

Benzyl azide is primarily used in organic synthesis as a precursor for the introduction of nitrogen-containing functional groups. It is widely employed in click chemistry reactions, where it reacts with alkynes to form triazoles, a common scaffold in drug discovery. The compound is also used in the synthesis of polymers, agrochemicals, and dyes. In the pharmaceutical industry, benzyl azide serves as an intermediate for the preparation of bioactive molecules, including antibiotics and antiviral agents. Its ability to form stable triazole linkages under mild conditions has made it a popular choice for bioconjugation and labeling applications in biochemistry and molecular biology.

Safety and Storage

Benzyl azide is classified as a hazardous chemical due to its explosive nature. It is sensitive to heat, shock, and friction, and can detonate if improperly handled. Storage should be in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from incompatible materials such as oxidizing agents and strong acids. Personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, goggles, and lab coats, must be worn when handling this compound. Work should be conducted in a fume hood to minimize exposure to vapors. In case of spills, avoid contact and evacuate the area, then consult hazardous materials professionals for cleanup.

B2B Procurement Guide

When procuring benzyl azide, B2B buyers should prioritize suppliers with a proven track record in handling hazardous chemicals. Verify the CAS number (622-79-7) and request certificates of analysis (CoA) to confirm purity and quality. Due to its instability, small batch purchases are recommended to reduce storage risks. Prices vary based on purity and quantity, typically ranging from $50 to $200 per 100g. Ensure the supplier complies with local and international safety regulations for shipping and storage. Consider suppliers who offer technical support and safety data sheets (SDS) to facilitate safe handling and usage.

Related Manufacturers