A widely used aminosilane coupling agent: 3-Aminopropyltriethoxysilane, almost always abbreviated APTES, is one of the most widely used aminofunctional silanes in surface chemistry. It works as a coupling agent and surface-modifying reagent, bridging inorganic surfaces and organic chemistry. In practice it is used to functionalize glass, silica, and metal-oxide surfaces with reactive amine groups, creating an attachment point for dyes, polymers, proteins, and other molecules in applications ranging from adhesion promotion to biosensor and diagnostic surface preparation.
How it works: The molecule has two reactive ends. The triethoxysilyl group hydrolyzes and condenses onto hydroxyl-bearing inorganic surfaces, anchoring the molecule firmly, while the primary amine at the other end remains available for further reaction. This gives a well-defined, amine-terminated surface that chemists can build on, which is why APTES is a standard starting point for silanization protocols in both research and manufacturing settings.
Verified identity and purity: This TCI product (catalog A0439) is supplied at a minimum purity of 98.0% by GC, with molecular formula C9H23NO3Si and molecular weight 221.37, CAS number 919-30-2. It is a colorless liquid with a refractive index of about 1.42. These verified specifications let users confirm they are working with the correct, high-purity reagent, which matters because silanization results are sensitive to reagent quality and consistency.
Storage and safe handling: APTES is moisture sensitive: exposure to atmospheric humidity can cause premature hydrolysis that reduces its coupling performance, so containers should be kept tightly closed and protected from moisture during storage. It ships as a corrosive amine liquid under DOT guidance and should be handled with appropriate protective equipment and ventilation. The Safety Data Sheet should be reviewed before use, and the product carries a California Prop 65 warning that should be noted.
Recommended For
Silanizing glass, silica, and metal-oxide surfaces
Adhesion promotion and coupling
Surface functionalization with amine groups
Research and industrial silane chemistry
Product Details
Chemical name: 3-Aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES)
Purity: Min. 98.0% (GC)
CAS number: 919-30-2
Molecular formula / weight: C9H23NO3Si / 221.37
Physical state / color: Liquid / colorless
Refractive index: ~1.42
Condition to avoid: Moisture sensitive
Manufacturer: TCI (catalog A0439)
Available Variants
A0439-25G — 3-Aminopropyltriethoxysilane, 25 g
A0439-100G — 3-Aminopropyltriethoxysilane, 100 g
A0439-500G — 3-Aminopropyltriethoxysilane, 500 g
The variants are the same reagent in different pack sizes, 25 g, 100 g, and 500 g, so you can match the quantity to your usage.
Primary Industries
Materials science and surface chemistry
Life science and diagnostics
Adhesives and coatings
Research laboratories
Standards and Certifications
TSCA listed (per manufacturer data); California Prop 65 warning applies
FAQs
What is APTES used for?
3-Aminopropyltriethoxysilane is an aminosilane coupling agent used to functionalize glass, silica, and metal-oxide surfaces with amine groups. It is common in surface chemistry, adhesion promotion, and bio-conjugation, where the reactive silane end bonds to the surface and the amine end provides a site for further chemistry.
What are the purity and identity of this product?
This TCI product (A0439) is a minimum 98.0% (GC) grade with molecular formula C9H23NO3Si, molecular weight 221.37, and CAS number 919-30-2. It is a colorless liquid with a refractive index of about 1.42. Confirming these identifiers helps ensure you receive the correct reagent for your work.
Why is APTES moisture sensitive?
Alkoxysilanes such as APTES react with water, so exposure to moisture can cause premature hydrolysis and reduce performance. Keep containers tightly closed and protected from moisture during storage. Following the manufacturer's storage guidance helps preserve the reagent's reactivity for surface-modification and coupling applications.
How should APTES be handled and shipped?
APTES ships as a corrosive amine liquid under DOT guidance, so it should be handled with appropriate personal protective equipment and kept away from incompatible materials. Always review the Safety Data Sheet before use. The product also carries a California Prop 65 warning that should be noted during handling.
What sizes are available?
The reagent is offered in 25 g, 100 g, and 500 g pack sizes. Choosing a size close to your expected usage helps manage a moisture-sensitive material, since smaller quantities limit how long an opened container is exposed to repeated handling and potential moisture uptake over time.