Dimethylcadmium

Dimethylcadmium is a chemical compound with the formula (CH3)2Cd. This highly volatile and pyrophoric compound is one of the few organometallic compounds of cadmium. It is a colorless liquid that is used in the synthesis of other organocadmium compounds. It is highly toxic and exposure can result in cadmium poisoning.

History

Dimethylcadmium was first synthesized in the late 19th century by the German chemist Friedrich August Kekulé. He discovered that it could be produced by the reaction of methyl iodide with cadmium iodide in the presence of zinc.

Properties

Dimethylcadmium is a colorless, highly volatile liquid. It has a boiling point of 114 °C and a melting point of -43 °C. It is highly reactive and can spontaneously ignite in air. It is also highly toxic and can cause severe health effects if inhaled or ingested.

Synthesis

Dimethylcadmium can be synthesized by the reaction of methyl iodide with cadmium iodide in the presence of zinc. The reaction proceeds via the formation of a Grignard reagent, which then reacts with the cadmium iodide to form dimethylcadmium.

Uses

Dimethylcadmium is used in the synthesis of other organocadmium compounds. It is also used as a catalyst in certain types of chemical reactions, such as the polymerization of ethylene.

Safety

Dimethylcadmium is highly toxic and exposure can result in cadmium poisoning. Symptoms of exposure can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and severe respiratory distress. Long-term exposure can lead to kidney damage and cancer. Due to its high toxicity, dimethylcadmium is classified as a hazardous substance and must be handled with extreme care.

See also

• Organometallic chemistry
• Cadmium poisoning
• Grignard reaction