Uses
Bis(trimethylsilyl)mercury is used for: a precursor to trimethylsilyllithium; debrominates 1,2- and 1,3-dibromides; source of trimethylsilyl radical; useful reagent for preparation of metal-silicon bonds.
Synthesis Reference(s)
1. Wiberg, E.; Stecher, O.; Andrascheck, H. J.; Kreuzbichler, L.; Staude, E. AG(E) 1963, 2, 507.
Synthesis
Original procedure of the Bis(trimethylsilyl)mercury involves shaking Sodium Amalgam with Bromotrimethylsilane.1The resulting bis(trimethylsilyl)mercury is readily purified by sublimation at 60 °C in vacuo.
Precautions
Bis(trimethylsilyl)mercury is highly toxic and should be handled in an efficient fume hood. It is air sensitive.
