Molybdenum Hexacarbonyl CAS 13939-06-5

Molybdenum Hexacarbonyl – Inorganic Metal Carbonyl Complex

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 13939-06-5

• Molecular Formula: Mo(CO)₆

• Molecular Weight: 264.00 g/mol

• Appearance: White to off-white crystalline solid

• Melting Point: 150°C (decomposes)

• Sublimation Point: Sublimes at 40–50°C under vacuum

• Density: 1.96 g/cm³

• Solubility: Slightly soluble in ether; soluble in benzene, paraffin, and other organic solvents; insoluble in water.

Overview
Molybdenum hexacarbonyl is a volatile, air-stable coordination compound belonging to the class of transition metal carbonyls. It consists of a central molybdenum atom coordinated to six carbon monoxide ligands in an octahedral geometry. This compound is widely used as a precursor in organometallic synthesis, catalysis, and materials science.

Chemical Properties

• Reacts readily with bromine to form molybdenum tetrabromide (MoBr₄).

• Undergoes substitution reactions with various ligands (phosphines, amines, etc.) to produce diverse molybdenum complexes.

• Thermally decomposes to metallic molybdenum and carbon monoxide at elevated temperatures.

• In reducing, oxygen-free environments, it can participate in redox reactions and facilitate the formation of molybdenum-containing species.

Applications

• Catalysis: Used as a catalyst or catalyst precursor in olefin metathesis, polymerization, and hydroformylation reactions.

• Chemical vapor deposition (CVD): Serves as a volatile precursor for depositing molybdenum thin films and coatings.

• Organometallic synthesis: Key starting material for the preparation of various molybdenum complexes and organomolybdenum compounds.

• Environmental detection: May be utilized in monitoring and detection systems at waste treatment plants and wastewater facilities due to its behavior in reducing conditions.

• Research: Widely used in academic and industrial laboratories for fundamental studies and development of new materials.

Handling and Storage

• Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from oxidizing agents and strong acids.

• Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent sublimation and contamination.

• Handle under inert gas (nitrogen or argon) if possible, as it may decompose upon prolonged exposure to air and moisture.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles, lab coat).

• Thermal decomposition releases toxic carbon monoxide; use in fume hood.

Packaging
Available in 100 g, 500 g bottles, or custom packaging upon request.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is analyzed for purity (by IR spectroscopy or GC), melting point, and metal content to ensure high quality.