Organotin

Organotin is a term used in organic chemistry to refer to compounds that contain at least one chemical bond between a carbon atom and a tin atom. These compounds are a subset of organometallic compounds, which are compounds that contain a bond between a carbon atom and a metal atom. Organotin compounds have a wide range of applications, including use as catalysts, biocides, and polymer stabilizers.

History

Organotin compounds have been known since the 19th century, with the first examples being diethyltin and diphenyltin. The development of organotin chemistry has been driven by both academic interest and industrial applications.

Structure and Bonding

Organotin compounds can be classified according to the number of tin-carbon bonds. The simplest organotin compounds, known as monorganotin compounds, contain one tin-carbon bond. Diorganotin compounds contain two tin-carbon bonds, triorganotin compounds contain three, and tetraorganotin compounds contain four.

Applications

Organotin compounds have a wide range of applications. They are used as catalysts in the production of polyurethanes and silicones, as biocides in antifouling paints, and as stabilizers in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

Environmental Impact

Organotin compounds are highly toxic and have been linked to a range of environmental problems. They are particularly harmful to aquatic life and have been banned from use in antifouling paints by the International Maritime Organization.

See Also

• Organometallic Chemistry
• Organolead
• Organomercury