Diazald

Diazald is the common name for N-methyl-N-nitroso-p-toluenesulfonamide. It is a yellow crystalline solid used primarily as a precursor for the generation of diazomethane in laboratory settings. Diazomethane is a highly reactive and toxic reagent used in organic synthesis, particularly for methylation reactions. Diazald is preferred over direct routes to diazomethane due to its relative stability and ease of handling compared to diazomethane itself, which is often generated in situ as needed.

Diazald is typically prepared from p-toluenesulfonamide. The synthesis involves N-methylation followed by N-nitrosation.

Diazald is a known carcinogen and should be handled with extreme care in a well-ventilated fume hood using appropriate personal protective equipment. The handling and disposal of Diazald and any generated diazomethane should follow established safety protocols.