Diethylmagnesium

Diethylmagnesium is an organomagnesium compound with the chemical formula Mg(C2H5)2. It is a colorless liquid at room temperature and is highly reactive, particularly with air and moisture. It is often prepared by reacting magnesium metal with ethyl halide, such as ethyl bromide or ethyl chloride, in an ethereal solvent like diethyl ether or tetrahydrofuran. Alternatively, it can be synthesized through transmetallation reactions.

Diethylmagnesium is a strong base and a powerful nucleophile, making it a useful reagent in organic synthesis. It is employed in various reactions, including alkylation of carbonyl compounds, Grignard reactions, and polymerization processes. Its reactivity necessitates careful handling under inert atmosphere conditions, such as in a glovebox or under a nitrogen or argon blanket, to prevent decomposition and hazardous reactions. Due to its pyrophoric nature, it ignites spontaneously upon contact with air. It is typically stored and transported in sealed containers under an inert gas. Its applications are primarily found in academic research and specialized industrial processes.