Ferrocene

Ferrocene
Ⅰ. Basic Information

• Chinese name: Ferrocene

• English name: Ferrocene

• Chemical name: Bis(cyclopentadienyl)iron

• Molecular formula: C₁₀H₁₀Fe

• Molecular weight: 186.03

• CAS number: 102-54-5

Ⅱ. Structural Characteristics

• Typical sandwich structure: An Fe²⁺ ion is positioned between two parallel cyclopentadienyl anions (Cp⁻), forming a characteristic sandwich-like molecular structure.

• High aromaticity and stability: Ferrocene features a highly symmetrical structure with strong aromaticity and excellent chemical stability.

• Representative metalloorganic compound: As a landmark compound in metallocene chemistry, ferrocene plays an important role in the development and application of organometallic chemistry.

Ⅲ. Physical Properties

1. Appearance

Orange-yellow needle-shaped or plate-shaped crystals at room temperature.

2. Odor

Possesses a characteristic odor similar to that of camphor.

3. Melting Point

172–174°C.

4. Boiling Point

Approximately 249°C; it can sublime at temperatures above 100°C.

5. Solubility

• Insoluble in water.

• Readily soluble in benzene, toluene, diethyl ether, petroleum ether, ethanol, and other organic solvents.

6. Stability

• Stable under normal conditions and resistant to air and moisture.

• Exhibits good resistance to heat, ultraviolet radiation, and common acids and alkalis.

• Maintains relatively high stability at elevated temperatures and is not readily decomposed.

Ⅳ. Chemical Properties

1. Aromaticity: Ferrocene exhibits pronounced aromatic characteristics and can undergo various electrophilic substitution reactions, including acylation, alkylation, and sulfonylation.

2. Oxidation resistance: It is relatively resistant to oxidation and remains stable when exposed to air under normal conditions.

3. Organometallic applications: It can serve as a ligand, synthetic intermediate, or precursor for various catalysts.

4. Redox activity: Ferrocene exhibits reversible redox properties and can be oxidized to form ferrocenium cations.

Ⅴ. Main Uses

1. Fuel Additives

• Used as an additive in gasoline, diesel, heavy fuel oils, and other fuels.

• Can promote more efficient combustion, reduce black smoke and particulate emissions, and contribute to energy saving and emission reduction.

• Also used as a combustion aid in certain coal and fuel applications.

2. Ignition and Combustion Catalysts

• Used as a combustion catalyst or ignition-rate modifier in solid rocket propellants.

• Also applied in certain pyrotechnic and propellant formulations.

3. Organic Synthesis and Catalysis

• Used in the synthesis of organometallic catalysts and chiral ligands.

• Applied in polymerization catalysis, asymmetric synthesis, and other areas of organic synthesis.

4. Polymer Materials

• Used as an antioxidant and stabilizer in rubber, resins, silicone rubber, and other polymer materials.

• Can also be used in certain UV-absorbing and light-stabilizing applications.

5. Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials

• Serves as an intermediate or structural component in the development and synthesis of certain antitumor and antibacterial compounds.

• Used in the development of biosensors, electrochemical probes, and other functional biomaterials.

6. Other Applications

• Used as an antioxidant and corrosion inhibitor in certain lubricating oil formulations.

• Applied in conductive materials and electrode modification materials.

Ⅵ. Safety

1. Toxicity

Generally considered to have relatively low toxicity; may cause mild irritation to the skin and eyes.

2. Hazard Characteristics

Flammable. Fine ferrocene dust may form combustible or explosive mixtures with air under certain conditions.

3. Incompatible Substances

Avoid contact with strong oxidizing agents.

4. Protective Measures

• Avoid inhalation of dust or particulate matter.

• Wear appropriate protective gloves and safety goggles during handling.

• Maintain adequate ventilation in the working environment.

5. Storage and Transportation

• Store in a cool, dry, and well-sealed environment.

• Keep away from ignition sources, heat, and strong oxidizing agents.

Ⅶ. Common Specifications

• Industrial grade: Purity ≥98%

• Reagent grade: Purity ≥99% or ≥99.5%