What Is Carbonyl Sulfide?
Carbonyl sulfide, with the chemical formula COS, is a colorless gas at room temperature and pressure. It finds a middle ground in properties between carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbon disulfide (CS2), occurring naturally in volcanic gases and mineral springs. Despite not being classified as toxic or flammable, it poses significant inhalation hazards at high concentrations.
Uses of Carbonyl Sulfide
Known for its bactericidal effects, carbonyl sulfide is utilized in the production of insecticides, pharmaceuticals, and herbicides, and as a chemical intermediate. Its role in semiconductor manufacturing, especially in dry-etching processes, is burgeoning. The compound also has potential implications in the origins of life, catalyzing peptide synthesis from amino acids.
Properties of Carbonyl Sulfide
With a melting point of -138.8°C and a boiling point of -50.2°C, carbonyl sulfide decomposes in the presence of water to form hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide. Toxicity studies indicate lethal effects at concentrations above 1,000 ppm, while lower exposures show no significant health impacts.
Structure of Carbonyl Sulfide
The molecule has a linear structure with a molar mass of 60.07 g/mol. The interatomic distances are 115.78 pm for C=O and 156.01 pm for C=S, illustrating the linear bond between sulfur and the carbonyl group.
Other Information About Carbonyl Sulfide
1. Occurrence of Carbonyl Sulfide
As the most abundant sulfur compound in the atmosphere, carbonyl sulfide plays a critical role in the sulfur cycle, with both natural and anthropogenic sources contributing to its atmospheric presence.
2. Synthesis of Carbonyl Sulfide
First synthesized in 1841, carbonyl sulfide can be produced through several laboratory methods, including the reaction of sulfur with carbon monoxide, or hydrolysis of isothiocyanate.