Tributylamine

Tributylamine (CAS 102-82-9), also known as tri-n-butylamine or N,N-dibutyl-1-butanamine, is a tertiary aliphatic amine produced by the alkylation of ammonia with n-butanol. It carries no assigned E-code and is not classified as a food additive.

In pharmaceutical synthesis, tributylamine acts as a non-nucleophilic base and acid scavenger, neutralising HCl generated during acylation and condensation reactions without interfering with the product. In metalworking and lubricant formulations, it functions as a corrosion inhibitor by adsorbing onto metal surfaces through its nitrogen lone pair, displacing moisture and forming a protective film.

Tributylamine is supplied under REACH registration and is available in technical and high-purity grades to meet pharmaceutical manufacturing requirements. Standard packaging includes drums and intermediate bulk containers, with documentation available to support supplier qualification and regulatory submissions.