Diethylaluminium chloride

Although often given the chemical formula (C2H5)2AlCl, it exists as a dimer, [(C2H5)2AlCl]2 It is a precursor to Ziegler-Natta catalysts employed for the production of polyolefins.

The compound is a colorless waxy solid, but is usually handled as a solution in hydrocarbon solvents.

[3][4] In contrast, triethylaluminium and trimethylaluminium feature bridging alkyl groups and these compounds violate the octet rule.

Diethylaluminium chloride can be produced from ethylaluminium sesquichloride, (C2H5)3Al2Cl3, by reduction with sodium:[5] It is also obtained from the reaction of triethylaluminium with hydrochloric acid: Reproportionation reactions can also be used: Diethylaluminium chloride and other organoaluminium compounds are used in combination with transition metal compounds as Ziegler–Natta catalysts for the polymerization of various alkenes.

[6] As a Lewis acid, diethylaluminium chloride also has uses in organic synthesis.

Structural formula of diethylaluminium chloride
NFPA 704 four-colored diamond Health 3: Short exposure could cause serious temporary or residual injury. E.g. chlorine gas Flammability 4: Will rapidly or completely vaporize at normal atmospheric pressure and temperature, or is readily dispersed in air and will burn readily. Flash point below 23 °C (73 °F). E.g. propane Instability 2: Undergoes violent chemical change at elevated temperatures and pressures, reacts violently with water, or may form explosive mixtures with water. E.g. white phosphorus Special hazard W: Reacts with water in an unusual or dangerous manner. E.g. sodium, sulfuric acid