Tetrabutyltin

Tetrabutyltin (also tetra-n-butyltin and tetra-n-butylstannane) is a stable organotin compound and combustible, colourless liquid at room temperature. It is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents. It has the molecular formula C₁₆H₃₆Sn. Sometimes the abbreviation SnBu₄ and TTBT are used.

Tetrabutyltin is the starting material of the tributyltin and dibutyltin compounds. It is produced by the reaction of tin(IV) chloride with 1-chlorobutane. This reaction involves either the Grignard reaction, the Wurtz reaction, or butyl aluminium compounds. Pure SnBu₄ can be mixed with tin(IV) chloride to form tributyltin chloride and dibutyltin chloride. These tin compounds are starting materials for a wide range of organotin compounds used as stabilizers for PVC, biocides, fungicides, and anti-biofouling agents.