Description
Specifications Table
Product Name – Tetraethyl orthosilicate, 98%, AcroSeal®
Quantity/Pack Size – 1LT, 100ML
Form – Liquid
Grade – 98% Pure
Application – Silica precursor, sol-gel chemistry, CVD processes
Product Overview
Tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), 98% pure, is a high-grade silicon alkoxide widely utilized as a silica precursor in advanced laboratory applications. This AcroSeal®-packaged reagent offers exceptional purity and stability, ensuring consistent performance in sol-gel synthesis, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), and thin-film fabrication. The liquid form allows for precise volumetric dosing, while the 98% purity minimizes impurities that could compromise experimental outcomes. TEOS undergoes hydrolysis to form silica networks, making it indispensable for creating porous materials, coatings, and nanocomposites. Its low viscosity and controlled reactivity enable uniform film formation, critical for microelectronics and optical applications. The AcroSeal® packaging maintains integrity by preventing moisture ingress, which is vital for long-term storage and reproducible results. This grade is particularly suited for applications requiring high-purity silica sources, where trace contaminants could affect material properties or reaction kinetics.
FAQs
1. What is the shelf life of tetraethyl orthosilicate when stored properly?
When stored in a cool, dry place with the original AcroSeal® packaging unopened, tetraethyl orthosilicate maintains its specified purity for up to 24 months from the date of manufacture. Exposure to moisture accelerates hydrolysis, so resealing the container tightly after each use is critical.
2. Is this TEOS compatible with standard glass laboratory equipment?
Yes, tetraethyl orthosilicate can be safely handled in borosilicate glassware, which is resistant to the chemical’s mild corrosive properties. However, prolonged contact with alkaline solutions or certain metals may cause degradation, so using PTFE-lined caps is recommended for long-term storage.
3. What alternatives exist if I need a lower-purity TEOS for cost-sensitive applications?
For applications where 98% purity is not mandatory, technical-grade TEOS (typically 95-97% pure) is available at a lower cost. These alternatives may contain trace ethanol or water, which could impact reactions requiring high precision, such as semiconductor fabrication.
4. How should I dispose of unused or expired tetraethyl orthosilicate?
Unused TEOS should be treated as hazardous waste due to its flammability and potential to release ethanol upon hydrolysis. Follow local regulations for organic solvent disposal, typically involving incineration in approved facilities. Never pour it down drains or mix it with incompatible chemicals.
5. Can this product be used directly in sol-gel synthesis without further purification?
The 98% purity level is generally sufficient for most sol-gel applications without additional purification. However, for ultra-sensitive processes like photonic crystal synthesis, further distillation under reduced pressure may be required to remove residual ethanol or low-boiling impurities.
