Isobutyl chloroformate

Isobutyl chloroformate (CAS 543-27-1), abbreviated IBCF, is a reactive acylating agent.

Where is Isobutyl chloroformate used?

• Pharmaceutical manufacturing: reagent for mixed anhydride peptide coupling, activating carboxylic acids for amide bond formation in API synthesis
• Flavor and fragrance: synthesis of isobutyl esters with fruity notes for food and cosmetic formulations
• Fine chemical synthesis: protecting group reagent for amines and alcohols in multi-stage routes requiring selectivity
• Specialty polymer and agrochemical manufacturing: carbonylating agent introducing chloroformate functionality into target molecules
• It functions as an activated carbonyl intermediate, enabling coupling and protection reactions under mild conditions.

Good to know: Moisture-sensitive liquid; typically packaged under inert atmosphere to preserve reactivity.

Commercial specifications

• Purity specifications commonly 97% to 99%+
• Packaging from small reagent quantities to bulk drums