Tetragermane

Tetragermane is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Ge4H10. It is the heaviest analogue of the silanes, specifically the germane with four germanium atoms. Like other germanes, tetragermane is a colorless gas. It is a highly reactive and pyrophoric substance, meaning it can spontaneously ignite in air. This reactivity makes it challenging to handle and store. Tetragermane is typically synthesized through various chemical routes, often involving reactions with germanium halides and reducing agents. Its structure consists of a tetrahedral arrangement of four germanium atoms, with hydrogen atoms bonded to each germanium atom. While not as widely studied or utilized as simpler silanes or germanes, tetragermane has found niche applications in research, particularly in the fields of materials science and semiconductor fabrication. Its potential use in the deposition of germanium-containing thin films for electronic devices has been explored. Due to its instability, research into tetragermane often focuses on understanding its decomposition pathways and developing safer handling protocols.