Tris(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptanedionato)iron(III)

Updated: 2026-07-15

Overview

Tris(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptanedionato)iron(III) is a metal-organic compound where iron(III) is coordinated by three bidentate TMHD (tetramethylheptanedionate) ligands. It belongs to the β-diketonate family, widely used in materials science due to its volatility and thermal stability. The compound is favored in chemical vapor deposition (CVD) processes for producing high-purity iron oxide films. Developed as a precursor for advanced material synthesis, it offers controlled decomposition kinetics, making it suitable for applications requiring precise stoichiometry. Industrial users typically procure it in powder or crystalline form, with purity levels ranging from 95% to 99.99% for specialized applications.

Physical and Chemical Properties

The compound exhibits a distinctive dark red color and crystallizes in a monoclinic system. Its molecular weight of 629.73 g/mol and moderate melting point (with decomposition) allow for sublimation in CVD systems. A key feature is its solubility in non-polar organic solvents, which facilitates solution-phase processing. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) shows a single-step decomposition profile, releasing volatile ligands between 200-300°C. This property is critical for thin-film deposition, where clean decomposition minimizes carbon contamination. The iron(III) center adopts an octahedral geometry, contributing to the compound's stability under inert atmospheres.

Main Applications

Primary use lies in semiconductor and coating industries as a CVD/ALD precursor for Fe2O3 films, which serve as magnetic storage media or corrosion-resistant layers. In catalysis, it acts as a Lewis acid catalyst in organic transformations like Diels-Alder reactions. Emerging applications include nanoparticle synthesis, where its controlled decomposition yields uniform iron oxide particles for biomedical imaging or battery materials. Research institutions also employ it as a model compound for studying metal-ligand interactions in coordination chemistry.

Safety and Storage

As a moisture-sensitive compound, it requires storage under argon or nitrogen in sealed containers. Decomposition may release toxic fumes (CO, ketones), necessitating use in well-ventilated areas with proper PPE (gloves, goggles, respirators). Spills should be contained with inert absorbents and disposed as hazardous waste. Compatibility issues exist with strong oxidizers and acids. Safety data sheets (SDS) recommend fire precautions due to organic ligand combustibility, though the compound itself is not flammable.

B2B Procurement Guide

Industrial buyers should prioritize suppliers offering batch-specific certificates of analysis (CoA) detailing metal impurities (<100 ppm) and residual solvents. Technical-grade (95-98%) suffices for catalysis, while electronics applications demand 99.9%+ purity. Bulk orders (1kg+) typically reduce costs by 30-50%. Consider vendors with ISO 9001 certification and capability for custom packaging (e.g., break-seal ampoules for air-sensitive handling). Lead times vary from 2-8 weeks for specialty grades. For CVD applications, verify sublimation residue data (<0.1% preferred).