Product Description

Germane gas refers to the compound germane, which is a chemical compound composed of germanium and hydrogen. It has the chemical formula GeH4. Germane is a colorless, flammable gas that is highly toxic and can be hazardous if not handled properly. Here are some key points about germane gas:

1. Chemical Formula: GeH4
2. Molecular Weight: 76.64 g/mol
3. Structure: Germane gas consists of a central germanium atom bonded to four hydrogen atoms, forming a tetrahedral structure.
4. Physical Properties: Germane is a colorless gas at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. It has a boiling point of -88.5°C (-127.3°F) and a melting point of -164.7°C (-264.5°F).
5. Production: Germane can be produced through various methods, including the reaction of germanium tetrachloride with lithium aluminum hydride or the reaction of germanium dioxide with hydrogen at high temperatures.
6. Toxicity: Germane gas is highly toxic and poses significant health hazards. It can cause severe health effects if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. Germane is classified as a Category 2 carcinogen, which means it is suspected of causing cancer in humans.
7. Applications: Germane gas has limited practical applications due to its toxicity and the availability of safer alternatives. It has been used in the semiconductor industry for the deposition of germanium films and as a precursor for the production of other germanium compounds.
8. Safety Considerations: Due to its toxic nature, germane gas requires careful handling and proper safety precautions. It is important to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), work in well-ventilated areas, and follow strict safety guidelines when working with germane.
9. Environmental Impact: Germane gas is not considered a significant environmental concern due to its limited use and relatively low emissions. However, as with any toxic substance, proper disposal methods and environmental regulations should be followed to minimize potential environmental impacts.
10. Other Germanium Compounds: Germane is just one of the many compounds containing germanium. Other germanium compounds, such as germanium dioxide (GeO2) and germanium tetrachloride (GeCl4), have more widespread applications in various industries, including electronics, optics, and catalysts.