Methoxytrimethylsilane comes from the family of organosilicon compounds. This chemical carries the molecular formula C4H12OSi. The compound weighs in with a molecular weight of approximately 104.22 g/mol. This substance draws interest in labs and industries due to its distinctive mix of silicon, oxygen, and carbon. Chemists often call it trimethylmethoxysilane. You find Methoxytrimethylsilane as a colorless and transparent liquid under normal room temperature. It doesn’t come with any recognizable odor. While handling in the lab, you can tell by its low boiling point that volatility proves high. These specifics open uses from the lab bench to larger industrial setups where clean reactions and low-impurity end products really matter.
The chemical structure shows a silicon atom at the center, tied up with three methyl (-CH3) groups and one methoxy (-OCH3) group. That makes Methoxytrimethylsilane both compact and highly reactive where silylation is needed. The density clocks in near 0.77 g/cm3 when measured at around 20°C. The compound begins to boil at roughly 57–58°C and solidifies much below freezing, so it remains liquid well past the temperatures common in most factories and labs. Purity often climbs above 98% in commercially available batches. Methoxytrimethylsilane doesn't show up as a flake, pearl, powder, or crystal in standard conditions. It flows as a clear liquid and rarely forms solids unless dramatically cooled, so the talk about flakes, powders, or pearls stays theoretical for most applications.
Shipped and received under different global trade codes, Methoxytrimethylsilane usually carries the HS Code 2931.90.0090, slotting under ‘other organo-inorganic compounds’ for customs paperwork. Sourcing and importing this material asks for the right paperwork and firm confirmation on purity, batch number, and source. Specifications worth noting in commercial supply include water content, purity level, and residue after evaporation. Chemists pay close attention to the water content since even small traces can affect sensitive silylation procedures. Standard packaging uses tight, sealed glass or metal bottles to keep moisture and air from disturbing the product during transport and storage. Many factories keep the specs strict, asking for GC (Gas Chromatography) data with each order.
This compound acts as a key silylation agent in organic synthesis. It comes into play when there’s a need to protect –OH, –NH, or acidic protons during multi-step reactions, reducing the risk of cross-reactivity and making later purification easier. The chemistry industry depends on this trick to save time, limit waste, and cut down on harsh reaction conditions. This chemical is not used directly as a solid raw material or handled in peeled or crystal states. Most synthesis procedures use the liquid directly, pipeted with care under anhydrous conditions. Methoxytrimethylsilane can also act as a ‘building block’ for advanced polysiloxanes and custom resin production, feeding the appetite for specialty silicones in electronics, coatings, and adhesives.
Handling Methoxytrimethylsilane means knowing its risks. Safety data sheets call this compound flammable. It lights up easily because of that low boiling point. Vapors collect near the ground and can travel to ignition sources, so storage stays away from sparks, flames, or static discharge. The liquid and its vapors can irritate the eyes, respiratory tract, and skin, especially after repeat exposure. Good ventilation, flame-proof storage, and full PPE, including gloves and splash goggles, prove essential wherever the liquid’s in use. Fire-fighting needs foam or carbon dioxide, never water. In case of contact, rinsing large areas with water and seeking medical help quickly matters. Disposal always happens as a hazardous chemical, following the local laws and best practices for silicon waste streams. Many countries label it as harmful with the GHS02 (flame) and GHS07 (exclamation mark) pictograms. It doesn’t appear as a major environmental threat if well-contained—spills are rare with careful handling.
This compound’s importance shows in the boom of high-value pharmaceuticals, custom polymers, and cleaner electronics. Chemical reactivity coupled with easy handling makes it a favorite for researchers and manufacturers who want reliability in every drop. The ability to protect crucial functional groups, the demand for high-purity raw materials, and tight specs for the electronics industry mean Methoxytrimethylsilane stays in high demand. Over the years, I’ve seen supply chain hiccups cause delays in delivery schedules and project launches in small R&D outfits, with knock-on effects upstream and downstream. Companies often work with several suppliers, checking for consistency, safety reports, and compliance with international norms. Improvements in packaging and digital traceability help reduce contamination risks. In my experience, even routine lab work with Methoxytrimethylsilane encourages respect for chemical hygiene and process safety, an attitude that carries over into better practices across the lab floor and shop floor.
