Iron Pentacarbonyl: Its Toxicity, Detection, and Potential for Formation

Abstract

Advancements in iron catalyst systems have prompted an investigation of the formation potential of iron pentacarbonyl and of methods for its detection. This paper describes an inexpensive sampling and analysis technique. An analysis of the thermodynamics associated with iron pentacarbonyl formation is also presented to show the maximum concentration of iron pentacarbonyl that may be found over a wide range of carbon monoxide concentrations, temperatures, and pressures. The toxicity of this compound is reviewed, and recommendations are made for exposure limits in the environment.