Methylphenylsilane

Methylphenylsilane is an organosilicon compound with the chemical formula C7H10Si. It consists of a phenyl group and a methyl group attached to a silicon atom, which is also bonded to two hydrogen atoms. This structure can be represented as Ph(CH3)SiH2. It is a colorless liquid with a distinct odor.

The compound is typically prepared through the reaction of phenylmagnesium bromide with dichloromethylsilane or by the hydrosilylation of styrene with methylsilane. Methylphenylsilane is a reactive compound due to the presence of Si-H bonds, which can undergo various chemical transformations. It can participate in reactions such as dehydrogenative coupling, hydrosilylation, and oxidation.

Methylphenylsilane finds application as a precursor in the synthesis of various silicon-containing polymers and materials. It can be used in the development of specialty silicones, resins, and coatings due to its ability to introduce both phenyl and methyl functionalities into polymer chains. Its reactive Si-H bonds allow for cross-linking and modification of material properties. It is also used in organic synthesis as a reducing agent or a source of phenylsilyl groups.