Precursors such as molybdenum hexacarbonyl (CAS number 13939-06-5) and tungsten hexa-carbonyl (CAS number 14040-11-0) are used in various branches of industry and are an indispensable component of defined processes. The product is generally used as a catalyst, for example to crack hydrocarbons or carry out organic syntheses. The property of the product decomposing into molybdenum metal or similar reactive substances is of particular interest.

This makes it ideal for the production of thin coatings (thin-film coating) using gas deposition processes, known as CVD coating. Typical areas of application here are toolmaking and the electronics industry. The product is therefore an important component in processes for the semiconductor industry.

The manufacturing process for metal carbonyls was mentioned in technical literature in the 1930s to 1950s. Various sources reported on ways of producing the desired metal carbonyls with the corresponding yields. The use of so-called autoclaves is of decisive importance.

The reaction of metal chlorides to metal carbonyls is brought about by means of increased pressure and elevated temperatures. The development and manufacture of the corresponding autoclave technology was carried out by the KIMW research center after intensive development work. Lengthy and complex investigations of the reaction kinetics were necessary to ensure safe operation and achieve a high degree of purity (99.9%).

In particular, an understanding of the influence of reactor geometry and dynamic reaction control was developed, enabling a high degree of purification to be achieved. The KIMW research center now enables the short-term supply of purified metal hexacarbonyls for the European market.