tetraetylsilan

Tetraethylsilane, or Si(C2H5)4, is an organosilicon compound in which silicon is tetravalently substituted by four ethyl groups. Its molecular weight is about 144.3 g/mol. It is classified as a silicon hydride derivative with hydrocarbon substituents and is used mainly in research and synthesis as a silicon-centered building block.

In terms of appearance and handling, tetraethylsilane is typically described as a colorless, volatile liquid at ambient conditions with limited water solubility. Its vapors are flammable, and handling is usually conducted under inert atmosphere or with appropriate ventilation to minimize exposure to air and moisture. It is reactive toward water and oxygen over time, especially in the presence of moisture.

Chemical behavior characteristically features relatively stable Si–C bonds, but the compound hydrolyzes upon contact with water or moisture to give silicic acid (Si(OH)4) and ethanol (C2H5OH). This hydrolytic behavior is a consideration for storage and disposal, as the reaction products can condense to siliceous materials.

Synthesis of tetraethylsilane generally involves ethylation of silicon tetrachloride or related silicon precursors using ethyl Grignard reagents or other ethylating agents, followed by workup and purification to yield Si(C2H5)4. The method is used in laboratory settings and in specialized chemical manufacturing for preparing organosilicon reagents.

Applications are mainly within organic and organosilicon chemistry as a selective reagent for introducing ethyl groups to silicon or as a precursor to other silicon-containing compounds. Safety data emphasizes moisture sensitivity, flammability, and the need for protective equipment and proper storage to limit exposure and degradation.