Triethylsilane CAS 617-86-7

【Chemical Name】 Triethylsilane(TES)

【CAS No.】 617-86-7

Triethylsilane is an organosilicon compound belonging to the family of silanes. It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid at room temperature, exhibiting a distinctive odor. This compound is widely recognized for its reactivity and utility in various chemical transformations, particularly in organic synthesis and as a precursor for the preparation of other organosilicon compounds.

Chemical Structure and Formula

The molecular formula of triethylsilane is C6H15Si, with a structural representation of Si(C2H5)3. It consists of a silicon atom bonded to three ethyl (C2H5) groups, forming a tetrahedral geometry around the central silicon atom.

Physical Properties

• Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid
• Odor: Characteristic, pungent
• Density: Slightly less dense than water (specific gravity around 0.76)
• Boiling Point: Approximately 104-106°C (at 760 mmHg)
• Flash Point: Low, indicating a flammable liquid
• Solubility: Miscible with organic solvents, insoluble in water

Chemical Properties

Triethylsilane is known for its high reactivity towards various electrophiles, including halogens, oxygen, and hydrogen halides. This reactivity stems from the relatively high electron density around the silicon atom, making it susceptible to nucleophilic attack.

• Flammability: Highly flammable and should be handled with caution in a well-ventilated area.
• Stability: Stable under normal conditions, but may react vigorously with oxidizing agents and halogens.
• Reactions: It undergoes substitution reactions readily, allowing for the synthesis of functionalized silanes and silyl ethers, among others.

Applications

• Organic Synthesis: Triethylsilane serves as a versatile reagent in organic chemistry, particularly in the synthesis of silyl ethers and silanes. It finds applications in protecting group chemistry, where silyl ethers can stabilize sensitive functional groups during reactions.
• Precursor: It is a useful precursor for the preparation of more complex organosilicon compounds, including silane-based polymers and surfactants.
• Reducing Agent: In some cases, triethylsilane can act as a reducing agent, though its use in this capacity is less common than other reducing agents.