N,N,Carbonyldiimidazole (CDI)

Applications of N,N,Carbonyldiimidazole (CDI)

N,N’-Carbonyldiimidazole (CD1) is a zero length crosslinking reagent used to couple primary amines to carboxyllic acid functional groups. CDI reacts with the carboxylate ion (COO-) of proteins or other organic compounds, forming a reactive intermediate that is subsequently reacted with an amino group (-NH2).

This reagent can be used to couple two proteins, and is commonly used in protein immobilization to a solid support or membrane. Conveniently, CDI can be used in both aqueous and organic solvent systems.

N,N, Carbonyl diimidazole (CDI) is a useful alternative to highly toxic phosgene. CDI is similar to phosgene in its synthetic utility but is easier to handle since it exists as a solid. CDI is moisture sensitive and reacts readily with H2O to evolve CO2. CDI can be used for the activation of carboxylic acids. These activated carboxylic acids can be reacted with nucleophiles to make product that such as amides, esters, ureas, and carbamates. CDI reactions often don’t require a base because the liberated imidazole anion acts a base.