What is boc2o?

BOC2O, also known as bis(trichloromethyl) carbonate, is a chemical compound with the formula (COCl3)2. It is a colorless, volatile liquid that is widely used in organic synthesis as a reagent for the introduction of the trichloromethyl group (-CCl3) into organic molecules.

BOC2O is particularly useful in the synthesis of carbamates, which are important intermediates in the pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries. It reacts readily with alcohols, amines, and thiols to form carbamate esters, carbamate amides, and carbamate thioesters, respectively.

BOC2O is highly reactive and must be handled with caution as it is a powerful oxidizing agent and can cause severe skin and eye irritation upon contact. It should only be used in a well-ventilated laboratory setting by trained personnel following proper safety protocols.