VOCl3

VOCl3, also called vanadium(V) oxychloride, is a chemical compound with the formula VOCl3. It is a moisture-sensitive reagent that serves as a Lewis acid in inorganic and organometallic chemistry. On exposure to water, VOCl3 hydrolyzes, releasing hydrogen chloride and forming various vanadium-oxychloride species.

Structure and properties: The vanadium center is in the +5 oxidation state and is bonded to one oxo ligand and three chloride ligands. VOCl3 forms adducts with a variety of Lewis bases, including ethers, amines, and phosphines. It is typically handled under strictly dry, inert conditions because it reacts with moisture and air. The compound is volatile and can be distilled under inert atmosphere; it is soluble in many organic solvents.

Preparation and handling: VOCl3 is commercially available and can be prepared by established chlorination routes from vanadium-containing precursors. It should be stored in tightly closed containers under dry conditions and away from water and incompatible materials.

Applications and reactivity: In organic synthesis, VOCl3 acts as a Lewis acid catalyst for reactions such as polymerization and rearrangements and as a chlorinating/oxo-transfer reagent in various transformations. It serves as a useful precursor to other vanadium compounds, including lower-valent oxohalides and coordination complexes, and is used to prepare vanadium-based catalysts.

Safety: VOCl3 is corrosive and releases HCl upon hydrolysis; it can cause severe irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. It should be handled with appropriate protective equipment in a fume hood.