Alküülalumiinium

Alküülalumiinium, also known as organoaluminum compounds, are a class of chemical compounds with the general formula R_nAlX_{3-n}, where R is an alkyl group, X is a halogen or another ligand, and n is an integer from 1 to 3. Trialkylaluminiums, where n=3 and R is an alkyl group like ethyl or isobutyl, are the most common and important examples. These compounds are characterized by a direct aluminum-carbon bond, which makes them highly reactive and Lewis acidic.

Trialkylaluminiums are typically colorless, volatile liquids or solids that react vigorously with air and water. They are often pyrophoric, meaning they ignite spontaneously in air. This reactivity necessitates careful handling under inert atmospheres. Their primary industrial application is as cocatalysts in the Ziegler-Natta polymerization of olefins, such as ethylene and propylene. They activate the transition metal catalyst and alkylate it, facilitating the formation of polymers. They are also used in organic synthesis as reducing agents, alkylating agents, and in the production of other organometallic compounds.

The synthesis of alkylalumiiniums often involves the reaction of aluminum metal with alkyl halides or olefins in the presence of a catalyst. For example, triethylaluminum can be produced by the reaction of aluminum, hydrogen, and ethylene. Due to their reactivity and specific applications, alkylalumiiniums are manufactured and handled by specialized chemical companies.