Tantalum ethoxide, also known as tantalum(V) ethoxide, is an organometallic compound with the molecular formula C₁₀H₂₅O₅Ta and a molecular weight of 406.2901. It typically exists in liquid form and possesses specific physical and chemical properties. One important parameter is its density, which describes the mass per unit volume of a substance. For tantalum ethoxide, the density is 1.566 g/cm3.
Physical and Chemical Properties of Tantalum Ethoxide
Appearance: Colorless or pale yellow viscous liquid
Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₂₅O₅Ta
Molecular Weight: 406.2901 (or 406.25, depending on the source)
Melting Point: 21°C (some sources report -4°C, which may be related to the specific form or purity of the compound)
Boiling Point: 155°C (at 0.01 mmHg)
Density: 1.566 g/cm³ (or 1.46 g/cm³, values may vary slightly among sources)
Refractive Index: 1.487
Flash Point: 30°C (or 87°F, depending on the testing method)
Solubility: Soluble in organic solvents; insoluble in water, but decomposes upon contact with water
Flammability: Tantalum ethoxide is a flammable chemical that can ignite spontaneously in air and react violently with oxidizing agents
Sensitivity: Sensitive to moisture and air; readily reacts with water or atmospheric humidity.
Significance of the Density of Tantalum(V) Ethoxide
Understanding the density of tantalum ethoxide is crucial for researchers and industrial manufacturers. First, density data help determine the spatial requirements for storage and transportation. Second, density is closely related to other chemical properties such as solubility and reactivity. Additionally, during the preparation and application of tantalum ethoxide, accurate density information enables precise formulation and process control.
What's the applications of Tantalum Ethoxide
Tantalum(V) ethoxide has a wide range of applications across various fields. In the electronics industry, it serves as a precursor for the preparation of tantalum and tantalum nitride thin films, which are known for their excellent barrier properties in semiconductor devices. Additionally, tantalum ethoxide can be used to synthesize other organotantalum compounds, which have potential applications in catalysts, coatings, and ceramic materials.
FTIR Spectrum of Tantalum Ethoxide
Synthesis Methods of Tantalum Ethoxide
Chloride Conversion
This is a commonly used method, though it requires strict process control. Both the starting material, tantalum pentachloride, and the product, tantalum ethoxide, are highly reactive with moisture in the air. The reaction is highly exothermic and generates a large amount of hydrogen chloride gas, which is highly corrosive to equipment.
"Sacrificial" Anode
Another approach involves the electrochemical synthesis of tantalum ethoxide using a “sacrificial” tantalum anode. Experimental studies have examined the effects of additive types and concentrations, electrolyte temperature, electrode spacing, and current density on the synthesis process. The optimal conditions were determined as follows: 0.04 mol/L tetramethylammonium chloride, electrolyte at boiling temperature, electrode spacing of approximately 2 cm, and current density of 220 A/m². The target compound, tantalum ethoxide, is obtained by atmospheric and vacuum distillation of the resulting electrolyte mixture. The electrochemical synthesis achieves a current efficiency of over 95%, with a tantalum distillation recovery rate of 82.8%.
Safety and Storage of Tantalum Ethoxide
Due to its flammability and sensitivity to moisture, special safety precautions must be taken when storing and handling tantalum ethoxide. During transport, storage, and use, strict measures should be implemented to protect both personnel and the environment. Operators should wear appropriate protective equipment and ensure that the working area is well-ventilated, avoiding sources of heat and sparks.
Tantalum ethoxide should be stored in a cool, ventilated, and dry area, away from open flames and oxidizing agents. Regular inspections of storage containers are necessary to ensure their integrity and tight sealing, in order to prevent leaks or accidents.
Safety Information
Hazard Symbols: C (Corrosive); F (Flammable)
Risk Phrases:
R10 – Flammable
R34 – Causes burns
Safety Phrases:
S16 – Keep away from sources of ignition
S26 – In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice
S36/37/39 – Wear suitable protective clothing, gloves, and eye/face protection
S45 – In case of accident or if you feel unwell, seek medical advice immediately (show the label if possible)
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