Thermal decomposition kinetics of lead(II) decanoate

Abstract

The thermal decomposition of lead(II) decanoate has been investigated using thermogravimetry (t.g.) derivative thermogravimetry (d.t.g.), and differential thermal analysis (d.t.a.). The solid products of decomposition are analysed by conventional techniques and the gaseous products by t.g. linked to m.s. and to g.l.c. Kinetic information on thermal decomposition of the melt in the temperature range 520–720 K is obtained from the t.g. curve by the methods of Coates and Redfern, Freeman and Carroll, and Anderson and Freeman. The results are consistent with a diffusion mechanism as the rate-controlling step and activation energy values are presented for overall decomposition and formation of products. Evolved gas analysis shows that whilst the parent ketone, nonadecan-10-one, is the major product of decomposition, lower ketones, alkanes, alkenes, CO₂, and CO are also present in measurable quantities. A mechanism in explanation of the overall decomposition reaction is discussed in the light of these results.