It07:Methylaluminoxane
Methylaluminoxane
Methylaluminoxane, commonly called MAO, is a white solid with the general formula (Al(CH3)O)n. MAO is pyrophoric and very reactive with every kind of chemicals with acidic proton. MAO dissolve well in (aromatic) hydrocarbons thus usually MAO is sold as a solution in toluene. [1]
| It07:Methylaluminoxane | |
|---|---|
 | |
| General | |
| Molecular formula | (-Al(CH3)O-)n |
| b.p | 111°C |
| density | 0.875 g/mL at 25 °C |
| Appearance | white solid |
| Indentifier | |
| CAS number | 120144-90-3 |
| Hazards | |
| Hazards | pyrophoric |
| Except where noted otherwise, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C, 100 kPa) Infobox disclaimer and references | |
Preparation
MAO is prepared by a (controlled) hydrolysis of trimethylaluminium.[2]
Uses
MAO is used as a co-catalyst for olefin poymerization of the Ziegler-Natta type. MAO alkylates and then activates the metal-chloride pre-catalyst species, forming an ion pair which should allow ethene insertion. In polymerisations MAO also functions as a scavenger.[3]