Photosensitization by Cd(3P1) Atoms. II. Gas Phase Decomposition of Cyclohexane

Abstract
The photodecomposition of cyclohexane sensitized by Cd(3P1) atoms has been studied in the vapor phase at 355 °C. The primary decomposition gives hydrogen atoms and cyclohexyl radicals. The volatile products of the decomposition are H2, cyclohexene, propylene, ethane, ethylene, methane, propane, butadiene, and methylcyclopentane. Products other than H2 and cyclo-C6H10 arise from unimolecular reactions of cyclohexyl radicals, the most important such process being the production of propylene and allyl radicals. Hydrogen yields decrease rapidly with time because of H-atom scavenging reactions involving olefinic products. The quantum yield of molecular hydrogen formation at the shortest exposure time examined is 0.53.