SnOiPr4

SnOiPr4 refers to tin(IV) isopropoxide, a tin alkoxide with the formula Sn(OiPr)4, where OiPr denotes the isopropoxy ligand (O–C3H7). It is widely used as a tin oxide precursor in sol-gel chemistry and in thin-film deposition processes.

Preparation of tin(IV) isopropoxide is typically achieved by alcoholysis of tin tetrachloride with dry isopropanol in the presence of a base to scavenge hydrochloric acid, or by transesterification of other tin alkoxides. The compound is highly moisture sensitive, and synthesis and storage are performed under rigorously anhydrous conditions to prevent hydrolysis.

Physical and chemical properties include being a colorless, moisture-sensitive liquid or low-melting solid that hydrolyzes readily in the presence of water. Upon hydrolysis, tin(IV) isopropoxide forms tin oxide or hydroxy tin species and isopropanol. It serves as a reactive precursor for generating SnO2 under controlled conditions and is compatible with various deposition and sol-gel techniques.

Applications center on the production of tin oxide materials. As a precursor, Sn(OiPr)4 is used to make SnO2 films, coatings, and porous ceramics via sol-gel routes, spin coating, dip coating, or hydrolysis-based processing. It also functions as a reagent in vapor-deposition methods such as metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) or atomic layer deposition (ALD) for tin oxide-containing films and structures.

Safety considerations include its moisture sensitivity and potential reactivity with water. It should be handled under inert or dry atmosphere, stored in tightly closed containers, and protected from moisture. Contact with skin or eyes should be avoided, and appropriate laboratory precautions applied to prevent hydrolysis and inhalation of any released vapors.