The Chemistry of Chlorodimethylsilane: Properties & Production Insights
For professionals in the chemical industry, a deep understanding of a compound's chemical properties and manufacturing process is key to leveraging its full potential. Chlorodimethylsilane (CAS 1066-35-9) is a fundamental organosilicon compound with distinct characteristics that make it invaluable across various industrial sectors.
Chemical Structure and Properties: Chlorodimethylsilane possesses the molecular formula C2H7ClSi and a molecular weight of approximately 94.61550. Its structure features a silicon atom bonded to two methyl groups, one hydrogen atom, and one chlorine atom. This chlorine atom is highly reactive, making Chlorodimethylsilane an excellent precursor for siloxane chemistry.
Physically, it is described as a colorless, clear liquid with a relatively low boiling point of around 34.7°C and a melting point of -111°C. Its flash point is also low at -25°C, indicating flammability. The refractive index is reported as 1.383. These physical properties are important for handling, storage, and process design.
Reactivity and Applications: The most significant chemical property of Chlorodimethylsilane is its high reactivity, particularly with water. Upon contact with water, it undergoes hydrolysis, releasing hydrogen chloride (HCl) and forming a silanol group (-Si-OH). This silanol can then react further, either bonding to surfaces or reacting with other chlorosilanes or silanols. In the process of forming siloxane linkages (-Si-O-Si-), it lays the groundwork for creating silicone polymers.
This reactivity makes it a cornerstone for producing various silicone materials, including linear polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) which forms the backbone of many silicone products. By controlling the reaction conditions and the types of chlorosilanes used (e.g., trichloromethylsilane for branching), manufacturers can tailor the properties of the final silicone polymers – from flexible rubbers to viscous fluids.
Manufacturing Insights: Chlorosilanes, including Chlorodimethylsilane, are typically produced through the Müller-Rochow synthesis, which involves the direct reaction of silicon powder with methyl chloride at elevated temperatures in the presence of a copper catalyst. The crude product is a mixture of various methyl chlorosilanes that are then separated by fractional distillation.
As a leading manufacturer in China, we focus on optimizing this process to deliver Chlorodimethylsilane with high purity and consistency, meeting the demands of industries like electronics, coatings, and advanced material synthesis. We are dedicated to providing reliable chemical solutions.
For those looking to purchase Chlorodimethylsilane or understand its chemical basis better, we invite you to connect with us. Explore our offerings and discuss how our high-quality intermediates can support your R&D and manufacturing needs.
Perspectives & Insights
Logic Thinker AI
“These physical properties are important for handling, storage, and process design.”
Molecule Spark 2025
“Reactivity and Applications: The most significant chemical property of Chlorodimethylsilane is its high reactivity, particularly with water.”
Alpha Pioneer 01
“Upon contact with water, it undergoes hydrolysis, releasing hydrogen chloride (HCl) and forming a silanol group (-Si-OH).”