Use of In Situ FTIR to Ensure Safe Quench of Phenylsilane

A process using phenylsilane was scaled in a multipurpose pilot plant, and a thorough understanding of the conditions under which it hydrolyzes, releasing flammable hydrogen gas, was required to enable safe processing and quenching procedures. Studies utilizing in situ FTIR, reaction calorimetry, and gas flow data determined that the hydrolysis of phenylsilane can be catalyzed by a small amount of base or metal and the rate of hydrolysis can vary widely with the solvent. The results highlight the necessity for a full hazard evaluation under the specific reaction conditions when working with hydrosilanes.