Innovation in contemporary materials science is fueled by organosilanes. These adaptable substances serve as a link between inorganic and organic chemistry. They are used by engineers to improve material performance and alter surfaces. Among these, triethoxypropylsilane CAS No: 2550-02-9 is a important alkyl-alkoxy silane. It functions effectively as a surface modifier and a coupling agent. Chemical manufacturers value its ability to impart hydrophobicity to various substrates. The technical details, synthesis methods, and various industrial uses of this important silane are examined in this article.
The molecular formula and molecular weight of triethoxypropylsilane
The first step in chemical analysis is to comprehend the basic structure. C9H22O3Si is the triethoxypropylsilane molecular formula. This formula shows a silicon atom bound to three ethoxy groups and one propyl group. This particular configuration determines its physical properties and reactivity.
206.35 g/mol is the triethoxypropylsilane molecular weight. This moderate molecular weight allows for easy handling in liquid form. Chemists use this value to determine exact stoichiometry during synthesis. The molecule gains organic character from the propyl chain. In the meantime, the ethoxy groups supply the sites required for hydrolysis. The molecule is very effective at changing interfaces because of its dual nature.
Triethoxypropylsilane Chemical Properties
Physical properties determine how engineers handle and store a chemical. The liquid form of triethoxypropylsilane is colorless or nearly colorless. At 25 °C, its density is roughly 0.892 g/mL. The refractive index is approximately 1.396. Quality control teams can swiftly confirm the identity of substances thanks to these values.
For formulation, solubility behavior is necessary. Water does not combine with triethoxypropylsilane. It is actually hydrophobic. On the other hand, it dissolves easily in alcohols, aliphatic hydrocarbons, and aromatic hydrocarbons. This solubility profile suits solvent-based coating applications well.
Its hydrolytic sensitivity must be noted. Moisture causes the compound to react. When water attacks the ethoxy groups, it releases ethanol. This reaction produces reactive silanol species. Consequently, operators must store the chemical in dry conditions. Nitrogen and other inert gas blankets stop early hydrolysis.
Experts can forecast chemical behavior with the aid of Triethoxypropylsilane CAS No: 2550-02-9 in the Siloxane Category Classification. Triethoxypropylsilane (CAS No. 2550-02-9) is classified as an organofunctional silane. It belongs specifically to the alkyl-alkoxy silane group. It acts as a siloxane network precursor.
The ethoxy groups hydrolyze to produce silanols (Si-OH). These silanols condense with surface hydroxyls or other silanols. This condensation creates stable siloxane (Si–O–Si) bonds and produces crosslinked, robust networks. The propyl group distinguishes the triethoxypropylsilane siloxane category. The silicon atom is still connected to this non-reactive alkyl chain. It offers a surface with low energy. Significant water repellency is the outcome of this. The propyl group usually does not react with organic polymers, in contrast to amino or vinyl silanes. Rather, it alters compatibility and surface tension.
Industrial & Applications Utilizing Triethoxypropylsilane (CAS No. 2550-02-9)
Industries use this silane for its flexible surface-modifying properties. A potent coupling agent is triethoxypropylsilane, CAS No. 2550-02-9. It handles inorganic fillers such as pigments, titania, and silica. The silane forms a bond with the surface of the inorganic particle. In organic polymers, this treatment enhances dispersion.
Triethoxypropylsilane applications extend to the sol-gel process. Researchers use it to coat nanotubes and mesoporous silica. On these nanostructures, the silane produces a hydrophobic layer. This modification shields the core material from moisture damage.
Polyolefin production also employs this compound. It is a part of Ziegler-Natta catalyst systems. Silane serves as an outside donor. It controls the polymerization’s stereochemistry. High-quality polypropylene and polyethylene are produced thanks to this control.
The construction industry uses it for waterproofing because masonry and concrete absorb water readily. A layer of triethoxypropylsilane penetrates the pores to provide protection. Without preventing breathability, it makes the surface hydrophobic. Building materials have a much longer lifespan thanks to this protection.
Common Purity and Purity Evaluation
High purity is required for high-tech applications. Triethoxypropylsilane purity analysis values of about 98% are typical for commercial grades. Impurities can hamper sensitive catalytic reactions, so manufacturers must guarantee consistent quality.
The conventional technique for confirming purity is gas chromatography (GC). A sample is injected into the GC column by analysts. The instrument separates the components based on volatility. Triethoxypropylsilane’s purity level is indicated by its peak area.
Purity retention is directly impacted by storage conditions. The enemy is moisture. Even minute amounts of water trigger hydrolysis. The reaction produces ethanol as a byproduct during degradation. A rise in acidity or the presence of gels indicates spoilage. As a result, warehouse workers keep drums in dry, cool locations. Under argon or nitrogen, they firmly seal containers.
The Synthesis and Handling of Triethoxypropylsilane
The synthesis of organosilanes involves complex chemistry. Manufacturers frequently use hydrosilylation to produce triethoxypropylsilane. In this reaction, trichlorosilane reacts with propene, and a platinum catalyst typically facilitates the step. Manufacturers then apply esterification to the resulting propyltrichlorosilane. Reaction with ethanol produces the final product, triethoxypropylsilane. During esterification, the process releases hydrogen chloride gas as a byproduct. To comply with environmental regulations, producers must scrub this gas.
Strict safety procedures must be followed when handling. The liquid can catch fire. Its flash point is approximately 57 °C. Vapors can be ignited by static electricity. During the transfer, technicians must ground every piece of equipment.
PPE, or personal protective equipment, cannot be compromised. The chemical irritates the skin and eyes. The respiratory system may become irritated by vapors. Operators should wear safety goggles and chemical-resistant gloves. Usually, work should take place in a fume hood.
Research Use and Functional Chemistry
Laboratories commonly use this silane in surface science experiments. Surface energy modification is the main focus of triethoxypropylsilane research. Scientists use it on silicon wafers or glass slides. They gauge the water droplets’ contact angle. A greater contact angle indicates that the hydrophobic modification was successful.
The two primary processes in the chemistry are condensation and hydrolysis. The silicon center is first attacked by water molecules. Silanol groups are produced in this step. These silanols then interact with hydroxyls on the surface. A covalent bond is created as a result. The propyl tails turn away from the surface. This orientation creates a barrier against water.
It is also used by materials scientists to make composites compatible. In organic resins, inorganic fillers frequently group together. This agglomeration weakens the material. These clumps are broken up by silane treatment. A stronger, more consistent composite material is the end result.
Specification Summary Table
Engineers require precise data for material selection. The following table compiles the main technical details for triethoxypropylsilane.
| Property | Value / Description |
| Molecular Formula | C9H22O3Si |
| Molecular Weight | 206.35 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 2550-02-9 |
| Appearance | Colorless to almost colorless liquid |
| Density (25 °C) | ~ 0.892 g/mL |
| Refractive Index | ~ 1.396 |
| Boiling Point | 179–180 °C |
| Flash Point | ~ 57 °C (135 °F) |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water; soluble in alcohols, aromatics |
| Hydrolytic Sensitivity | Reacts with moisture to form silanols and ethanol |
| Purity (Typical) | ≥ 98% (GC) |
| Linear Formula | CH3CH2CH2Si(OC2H5)3 |
Common Questions
What is triethoxypropylsilane’s molecular formula?
C9H22O3Si is the molecular formula. A silicon atom with three ethoxy groups attached to a propyl chain makes up this compound.
What is triethoxypropylsilane’s molecular weight?
206.35 g/mol is the molecular weight. This value is necessary for calculating molar ratios in synthesis and formulation.
What are the main applications of Triethoxypropylsilane?
Industry uses it as a coupling agent for pigments and inorganic fillers. It also serves in coatings, sol-gel processes, and as a catalyst modifier in polyolefin synthesis.
Is triethoxypropylsilane soluble in water?
No, it is not miscible with water. Alcohols and hydrocarbon solvents dissolve it. But over time, it reacts with water.
What safety measures are required when working with triethoxypropylsilane?
Keep it at low temperatures (2–8 °C) under inert gas. Make sure it stays dry. Because it is flammable and irritates the skin and eyes, always use appropriate PPE and ensure proper ventilation.
