Silane: The 'Pure Stream' of Semiconductors and New Energy
Introduction
Silane (SiH ₄), a colorless gas composed of one silicon atom and four hydrogen atoms, is known as "flowing pure silicon" due to its high purity and fine controllability. From semiconductor manufacturing to photovoltaic cells, from advanced ceramics to biomaterials, silane almost runs through the entire new energy and high-tech industry chain. This article will analyze the physical and chemical properties, preparation process, and application scenarios of silane, revealing its core value as a strategic resource.


1、 The physical and chemical properties of silane: a contradiction between fragility and vitality
The Si-H bond energy of silane (318-384 kJ/mol) is lower than that of C-H bond (413 kJ/mol), resulting in its chemical reactivity, flammability, and explosiveness. Its physical characteristics include:


Melting point -185 ℃, boiling point -112 ℃: Stable at room temperature, but completely decomposed into silicon and hydrogen gas when heated to 400 ℃.
Toxicity classification: Inhalation of rat LC50 is 9600 PPM/4 hours, and it needs to be stored in a ventilated, low-temperature, and dry environment.
Solubility: Reacts with water and is almost insoluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and benzene.
Safety warning: silane is explosive when mixed with air, and produces toxic silicon and flammable hydrogen when it is decomposed by heat. It should be stored separately from oxidant and halogen, and the extinguishing agent should be atomized water, foam or carbon dioxide.