Sodium ethoxide

Sodium ethoxide (CAS 141-52-6), also sold as sodium ethylate, is a strong alkoxide base used as a catalyst and reagent across pharmaceutical synthesis and specialty chemical manufacturing.

NaOEt drives condensation, cyclization, and transesterification reactions where controlled basicity and reactivity are critical to process efficiency and high-quality chemical output.

In pharmaceutical manufacturing, sodium ethoxide catalyzes the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients including barbiturates, sulfonamides, and vitamin B1, where precise reaction control affects yield.

Agrochemical producers use it as a base catalyst in the synthesis of herbicides and pesticide intermediates. In biodiesel production, sodium ethylate is the preferred transesterification catalyst.

It converts triglycerides to fatty acid ethyl esters, offering faster reaction rates than sodium hydroxide in anhydrous conditions. Specialty chemical formulators also apply it in Claisen condensations.

Sodium ethoxide is supplied as a solution in ethanol, typically at 20–21% concentration, and as a dry powder for moisture-sensitive applications to ensure maximum stability and performance.

The solution grade is the most commercially prevalent form, favored for ease of handling in large-scale continuous processes. Dry powder grades are available for laboratory and pharmaceutical applications.

These powder grades are ideal for processes requiring anhydrous conditions. Our material meets rigorous industrial specifications to ensure consistent results across all manufacturing sectors.