RuO4

Ruthenium tetroxide (RuO4) is a chemical compound composed of ruthenium and oxygen, characterized by its high volatility and strong oxidizing properties. It is a dark yellow to orange crystalline solid at room temperature, although it readily sublimates into a vapor. RuO4 is notable for being one of the few ruthenium oxides that exists in a gaseous state under standard conditions, which makes it unique among transition metal oxyanions.

RuO4 is primarily used in inorganic chemistry and analytical applications. It serves as a potent oxidizing agent in oxidation reactions, particularly in organic synthesis and in the study of oxidation states. Due to its high reactivity and toxicity, handling of RuO4 requires specialized equipment and safety precautions, including the use of fume hoods and protective gloves. It decomposes upon heating, releasing oxygen and ruthenium dioxide (RuO2), a more stable black solid.

Its synthesis typically involves the oxidation of ruthenium tetrachloride (RuCl4) with strong oxidants such as ozone or fluorine, under controlled conditions. RuO4 is also used in surface chemistry to selectively etch or modify materials, owing to its oxidizing capabilities.

The compound’s toxic and highly reactive nature limits its widespread use outside of industrial and research settings. Exposure to RuO4 can cause severe health hazards, including respiratory and skin irritation, and should be managed with strict safety protocols. As a chemical, RuO4 exemplifies the reactivity and volatility characteristic of highly oxidizing transition metal oxides, and it remains an important reagent in specialized chemical synthesis and analytical procedures.