Lead(IV) acetate


Lead acetate or lead tetraacetate is a chemical compound with chemical formula Pb4. It is a colorless solid that is soluble in nonpolar organic solvents, indicative that it is not a salt. It is degraded by moisture and is typically stored with additional acetic acid. The compound is used in organic synthesis.

Structure

In the solid state the lead centers are coordinated by four acetate ions, which are bidentate, each coordinating via two oxygen atoms. The lead atom is 8 coordinate and the O atoms form a flattened trigonal dodecahedron.

Preparation

It is typically prepared by treating of red lead with acetic acid and acetic anhydride, which absorbs water. The net reaction is shown:
The remaining lead acetate can be partially oxidized to the tetraacetate:

Reagent in organic chemistry

Lead tetraacetate is a strong oxidizing agent, a source of acetyloxy groups and a general reagent for the introduction of lead into organolead compounds. Some of its many uses in organic chemistry:
Lead acetate may be fatal if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through skin. It causes irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. It is a neurotoxin. It affects the gum tissue, central nervous system, kidneys, blood, and reproductive system.