triphenylsilyl

Triphenylsilyl is a chemical functional group with the formula (C6H5)3Si-. It consists of a silicon atom bonded to three phenyl rings. This group is often encountered in organosilicon chemistry and as a protecting group for alcohols. The triphenylsilyl group is sterically bulky due to the presence of three phenyl rings, which can influence the reactivity of molecules to which it is attached. Its bulky nature also contributes to its stability. Triphenylsilyl ethers are commonly formed by reacting an alcohol with triphenylsilyl chloride in the presence of a base. This reaction serves to protect the hydroxyl group from unwanted reactions during synthesis. The triphenylsilyl protecting group can be removed under acidic or basic conditions, or by using fluoride ions, which have a strong affinity for silicon. The relative inertness of the Si-C bond makes the triphenylsilyl group a robust protecting group. In some contexts, triphenylsilyl groups are incorporated into polymers to modify their properties, such as thermal stability or solubility.