MAGNESIUM DIETHYL

Chemical properties

Magnesium Diethyl is colorless liquid; forms solvated crystalsfrom ether, (C2H5)2Mg·(C2H5)2O; loses itsether of crystallization when heated undervacuum; freezes at 0°C (32°F); decomposesat 250°C (482°F) under high vacuum; solublein ether.

The Uses of MAGNESIUM DIETHYL

Diethylmagnesium is used as intermediate inorganic synthesis.

Health Hazard

Skin contact can cause severe burns.

Fire Hazard

Diethylmagnesium catches fire spontaneously in air. It is susceptible to glow and can catch fire in other gases, as well, that contain oxygen atoms in the molecules, such as N2O and even CO2. It explodes with water. The ether solution of the compound is also susceptible to ignition, upon contact with water (Bretherick 1995). It reacts violently with lower alcohols and ammonia (Sidgwick 1950).

Safety Profile

Ignites on contact with moist air, water, or carbon dioxide. See also MAGNESIUM COMPOUNDS.