Aluminium acetoacetate

Aluminium acetoacetate

Aluminium acetoacetate is a chemical compound with the formula Al(C5H7O2)3. It is a white, crystalline solid at room temperature and is soluble in water. Aluminium acetoacetate is used in various industrial applications, including as a catalyst in organic synthesis and in the production of paints and varnishes.

Chemical Structure

The chemical structure of aluminium acetoacetate consists of an aluminium atom surrounded by three acetoacetate ions. Each acetoacetate ion is a carboxylate that contains two carbon atoms, one of which is part of a ketone group. The aluminium atom forms a bond with the oxygen atom of each acetoacetate ion, resulting in a complex that has a negative charge.

Synthesis

Aluminium acetoacetate is typically synthesized through the reaction of aluminium hydroxide with acetoacetic acid. This reaction produces aluminium acetoacetate and water. The reaction can be represented as follows:

Al(OH)3 + 3 CH3COCH2COOH → Al(C5H7O2)3 + 3 H2O

Applications

Aluminium acetoacetate is used as a catalyst in the synthesis of various organic compounds. It is particularly useful in reactions that involve the formation of carbon-carbon bonds, such as the Aldol reaction and the Claisen condensation.

In addition, aluminium acetoacetate is used in the production of paints and varnishes. It acts as a cross-linking agent, helping to form a hard, durable coating that is resistant to water and chemicals.

Safety

As with all chemical compounds, aluminium acetoacetate should be handled with care. It can cause irritation to the skin and eyes, and ingestion or inhalation can lead to health problems. Appropriate safety measures, such as the use of personal protective equipment, should be taken when handling this compound.

See Also

• Aluminium compounds
• Acetoacetic acid
• Organic synthesis
• Catalysis