GB895457A - Electrolytic process for making organolead compounds - Google Patents

Abstract

895,457. Making organo-lead compounds, electrolytically. ETHYL CORPORATION. June 1, 1960 [June 23, 1959], No. 19359/60. Class 41. Organo-lead compounds are made by electrolysing an organo-boron complex using a lead anode. Examples of the boron complex include sodium tetraethyl boron, potassium ethyl triphenyl boron, pyridinium tetraethyl boron, tetraethyl ammonium, tetraethyl boron, and derivatives, e.g. sodium triethyl boron cyanate or amide. At least one of the organic groups is an alkyl group preferably of 8 C atoms or less. Substituent groups which may be present in the anionic boron radical include hydroxy halogen, sulphate, nitrate, phosphate, arsonate and azide. These compounds are liquids or low melting solids, and are electrolysed in molten state below 120‹ C., or dissolved in solvents, e.g. propyl ether, glycol ethers, and poly-ethers, dioxane, amines, aromatic hydrocarbons, lactones, or water. An alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salt may be added as conductor and melting-point depressant. Voltage is preferably 10 v. or lower, and a low C.D. is applied. In examples, tetraethyl-, methyl-, or octyl-lead are made. The sodium metal or other metal in the complex is deposited at the cathode. The electrolyte may be regenerated by admitting hydrogen and the olefine required into the cathode region while passing the current, and this regeneration may proceed with the main reaction. A diaphragm cell is preferred.