Preparation and properties of diethylaluminium hydroborate

Abstract

Diethylaluminium hydroborate, Et₂AlBH₄, has been prepared by two methods, first from the redistribution reaction between triethyl aluminium and aluminium tris-hydroborate, and secondly from the reaction of aluminium trishydroborate with ethylene in hexane at 80°. The product is an air-reactive liquid which is monomeric in benzene. The spectroscopic properties are discussed in relation to the structure, and compared with those of other similar compounds. The trimethylamine and diethyl ether 1 : 1 adducts, L → AlEt₂BH₄, where L = Me₃N and Et₂O, have also been prepared, and their properties are discussed.