As a stable aminoxyl radical, it has applications in chemistry and biochemistry. TEMPO is used as a radical marker, as a structural probe for biological systems in conjunction with electron spin resonance spectroscopy, as a reagent in organic synthesis, and as a mediator in controlled radical polymerization.
A number of ten stable free mono-, di- and tri-radicals of the TEMPO nitroxide type were synthesized and characterized via physico-chemical methods (elemental analysis, MS, UV-Vis, IR, ESR, and X-ray, where appropriate). The design of the compounds was chosen such that supramolecular interaction could be gained via hydrogen-bonding or π–π interactions; therefore the compounds should contain amino- or urea-moieties, (nitro)aromatic rings, or a crown ether residue. The formation of inclusion complexes between these (poly)radicals and cucurbit[6]uril was studied via Electron Spin Resonance (ESR) spectroscopy.
TEMPO is sufficiently inexpensive for use on a laboratory scale. There is also industrial-scale manufacturer which can provide TEMPO at a reasonable price in large quantity. Structurally related analogues do exist, which are largely based on 4-hydroxy-TEMPO (TEMPOL). This is produced from acetone and ammonia, via triacetone amine, making it much less expensive. Other alternatives include polymer-supported TEMPO catalysts, which are economic due to their recyclability.
