Overview
Vanadocene dichloride is an organometallic compound belonging to the metallocene family, where vanadium(IV) is sandwiched between two cyclopentadienyl rings. First synthesized in the 1950s, it represents a class of compounds crucial for studying transition metal-carbon bonds. Its distinctive orange color and paramagnetic properties make it easily identifiable among metallocenes. As a precursor to other vanadium complexes, this compound plays a pivotal role in both academic research and industrial catalysis. The bent metallocene structure (Cp2VCl2 angle ~140°) differs from ferrocene's parallel rings, demonstrating how central metal identity affects molecular geometry in sandwich compounds.
Physical and Chemical Properties
The compound crystallizes in a monoclinic system with vanadium adopting a pseudo-tetrahedral coordination geometry. It exhibits moderate stability in dry air but decomposes upon prolonged exposure to moisture or oxygen. Magnetic susceptibility measurements confirm its paramagnetic nature with two unpaired electrons (d1 configuration). Redox chemistry is particularly noteworthy - vanadocene dichloride can be reduced to vanadocene (Cp2V) or oxidized to vanadium(V) species. Its solubility profile allows for use in both polar and non-polar organic solvents, though solutions gradually decompose when exposed to air. The V-Cl bonds are labile, enabling ligand exchange reactions.
Main Applications
In industrial settings, vanadocene dichloride serves as a co-catalyst in Ziegler-Natta systems for olefin polymerization, particularly for producing specialty polyolefins with controlled tacticity. Its ability to generate active V(III) species makes it valuable for copolymerization of ethylene with polar monomers. The compound also finds use in organic synthesis as a mild reducing agent and catalyst for carbon-carbon bond formation. Research laboratories employ it to study vanadium's role in biological systems and to develop new catalytic processes. Recent studies explore its potential in redox flow batteries due to vanadium's multiple oxidation states.
Safety and Storage
As a moisture-sensitive compound, vanadocene dichloride requires handling under inert atmosphere (argon or nitrogen) using standard Schlenk techniques. Decomposition products may include hydrochloric acid and vanadium oxides, necessitating proper ventilation and acid-resistant equipment. Personal protective equipment should include nitrile gloves, safety goggles, and lab coats. Storage recommendations include amber glass bottles with PTFE-lined caps in refrigerated gloveboxes. Waste disposal must comply with local regulations for heavy metal compounds, typically through licensed hazardous waste handlers.
B2B Procurement Guide
Industrial buyers should prioritize suppliers that provide batch-specific certificates of analysis (COA) detailing purity (typically 95-99%), residual solvents, and metallic impurities. Technical-grade material for catalysis may cost 30-50% less than research-grade but requires validation of catalytic activity. Bulk purchases (1kg+) often require lead times of 4-8 weeks due to specialized synthesis conditions. Consider suppliers offering customized packaging (e.g., septum-sealed bottles or ampoules) for moisture protection. For international shipments, verify compliance with transportation regulations (UN3285 for vanadium compounds).
Related Manufacturers
- 主营：荧光素酶、血管紧张素转化酶、乳酸氧化酶、脱氧核糖核酸酶1型、乙酰胆碱酯酶、硫酸软骨素ABC酶、肝素酶