5-Bromo-2-isobutylbenzonitrile: Properties, Uses & FAQs

5-Bromo-2-isobutylbenzonitrile is a halogenated aromatic nitrile compound widely employed as a versatile building block in pharmaceutical and fine-chemical synthesis.

CAS Number

To be confirmed — see SDS/CoA (review flag)

Molecular Formula

C₁₁H₁₂BrN

Molecular Weight

Approximately 250.12 g/mol (review flag — verify against CoA)

SKU / Product Code

B195343

Functional Groups

Aryl bromide (C–Br), nitrile (C≡N), isobutyl alkyl chain

Primary Application

Synthetic intermediate in cross-coupling reactions and pharmaceutical research

Chemical Identity and Structure

5-Bromo-2-isobutylbenzonitrile (Aladdin SKU B195343) is an aromatic compound featuring three key functional elements on a benzene ring: a bromine substituent at the 5-position, a nitrile group (–C≡N) at the 1-position, and an isobutyl chain (–CH₂CH(CH₃)₂) at the 2-position. The molecular formula is C₁₁H₁₂BrN, giving an approximate molecular weight of 250.12 g/mol. The coexistence of the electron-withdrawing nitrile group and the carbon–bromine bond on the same aromatic scaffold makes this compound a bifunctional handle for downstream synthetic transformations. Researchers should verify the exact CAS number, melting point, and purity specification against the certificate of analysis (CoA) supplied with each lot.

Applications in Synthetic Chemistry

The aryl bromide moiety in 5-Bromo-2-isobutylbenzonitrile makes it a reactive partner in transition-metal-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions, including Suzuki–Miyaura, Negishi, Buchwald–Hartwig, and Sonogashira couplings. These reactions enable the introduction of aryl, vinyl, alkyl, amino, or alkynyl groups at the former C–Br position, greatly expanding structural diversity from a single starting material.

The nitrile group provides additional versatility: it can be hydrolyzed to a carboxylic acid, reduced to an amine, or converted to a tetrazole ring — all transformations of high relevance in medicinal chemistry. The lipophilic isobutyl substituent can favorably influence the pharmacokinetic profile of derived compounds by modulating logP values. Together, these features establish 5-Bromo-2-isobutylbenzonitrile as a valuable pharmaceutical building block for structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies.

Handling, Storage, and Safety

As with most organobromine and nitrile-bearing compounds, 5-Bromo-2-isobutylbenzonitrile should be handled with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including nitrile gloves, laboratory coat, and safety eyewear. Work should be conducted in a well-ventilated fume hood to minimize inhalation exposure to dust or vapors. Specific hazard classifications, GHS pictograms, first-aid measures, and disposal guidance are detailed in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) available from Aladdin Scientific — always consult the current SDS before use.

For storage, the compound should be kept in a tightly sealed container away from heat, moisture, and incompatible materials such as strong oxidizers and strong bases. Unless otherwise stated on the CoA, storage at room temperature under inert atmosphere or in a desiccator is recommended to maintain long-term stability. Confirm exact storage conditions from the product label and CoA provided at time of delivery.

Purity, Specifications, and Quality Assurance

Aladdin Scientific supplies 5-Bromo-2-isobutylbenzonitrile (SKU B195343) with lot-specific purity data confirmed by analytical techniques such as HPLC, GC, or NMR — refer to the certificate of analysis for the exact purity percentage and analytical data associated with your specific lot number. Researchers requiring higher purity grades for sensitive assays should contact Aladdin's technical support team to discuss available grades and custom specifications.

Structural confirmation can be performed using ¹H NMR and ¹³C NMR spectroscopy, high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), or IR spectroscopy. The aromatic nitrile stretch typically appears near 2230 cm⁻¹ in the IR spectrum, and the isobutyl group exhibits characteristic proton environments in ¹H NMR. These data points serve as reliable identity checks upon receipt.

Ordering and Customer Support

5-Bromo-2-isobutylbenzonitrile is available from Aladdin Scientific under SKU B195343. To place an order, visit the Aladdin Scientific website, search by SKU or product name, and select the desired pack size and quantity. Bulk quantities and custom pack sizes may be available — contact the Aladdin sales team for quotations. For technical questions regarding applications, compatibility, or analytical data, reach out to Aladdin's technical support. For order status, shipping timelines, returns, and payment queries, the customer service team is available through the contact channels listed on the Aladdin Scientific website.

Frequently asked questions

What is 5-Bromo-2-isobutylbenzonitrile used for in research?

5-Bromo-2-isobutylbenzonitrile serves primarily as a bifunctional synthetic intermediate. The aryl bromide participates in transition-metal-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions (e.g., Suzuki, Buchwald–Hartwig), while the nitrile group can be further functionalized to carboxylic acids, amines, or heterocycles. This makes it particularly useful in medicinal chemistry and pharmaceutical SAR campaigns.

How should 5-Bromo-2-isobutylbenzonitrile be stored to maintain stability?

The compound should be stored in a tightly sealed container, protected from moisture, heat, and strong oxidizing or basic agents. Storage under an inert atmosphere or in a desiccator at room temperature is generally recommended unless the CoA specifies otherwise. Always consult the product label and certificate of analysis provided with your specific lot for confirmed storage conditions.

What analytical methods can confirm the identity and purity of 5-Bromo-2-isobutylbenzonitrile?

Identity can be confirmed by ¹H NMR (characteristic isobutyl and aromatic signals), ¹³C NMR, IR spectroscopy (nitrile stretch near 2230 cm⁻¹), and high-resolution mass spectrometry. Purity is typically assessed by HPLC or GC. Lot-specific analytical data are provided on the certificate of analysis available from Aladdin Scientific.

Is 5-Bromo-2-isobutylbenzonitrile available in bulk quantities?

Bulk quantities and custom pack sizes may be available for 5-Bromo-2-isobutylbenzonitrile (SKU B195343). Researchers and procurement teams are advised to contact Aladdin Scientific's sales team directly to discuss volume pricing, lead times, and available pack sizes.

What safety precautions should be taken when handling 5-Bromo-2-isobutylbenzonitrile?

Handle in a well-ventilated fume hood using appropriate PPE including nitrile gloves, laboratory coat, and safety goggles. Avoid inhalation of dust or vapors. Consult the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from Aladdin Scientific for full GHS hazard classification, first-aid procedures, and disposal guidelines before use.

References

1. Aladdin Scientific Product Page — 5-Bromo-2-isobutylbenzonitrile, SKU B195343. Certificate of Analysis and Safety Data Sheet available on request.
2. March, J. Advanced Organic Chemistry: Reactions, Mechanisms, and Structure. Wiley-Interscience. (General reference for cross-coupling and nitrile chemistry.)
3. Clayden, J.; Greeves, N.; Warren, S. Organic Chemistry, 2nd ed. Oxford University Press, 2012. (Reference for nitrile functional group transformations.)

Products are supplied for research and development use only. Not for use in humans, animals, diagnosis, or therapy.