Silver Diethyldithiocarbamate (CAS 1470-61-7)
Chemical Formula: Ag[S?CN(C?H?)?]
Molecular Weight: ~256.01 g/mol

Structure:
A coordination compound where silver(I) is bound to the diethyldithiocarbamate ligand. The ligand consists of a dithiocarbamate group (S?CN?) with two ethyl groups attached to the nitrogen atom.

Physical Properties:

• Typically appears as a light-sensitive yellow or white crystalline powder.

• Solubility: Likely soluble in organic solvents (e.g., chloroform, pyridine) but insoluble in water.

Synthesis:
Prepared by reacting sodium diethyldithiocarbamate with silver nitrate in aqueous solution:

$${\text{NaS}}_2{\text{CN(C}}_2{\text{H}}_5{\text{)}}_2+{\text{AgNO}}_3\to {\text{AgS}}_2{\text{CN(C}}_2{\text{H}}_5{\text{)}}_2\downarrow +{\text{NaNO}}_3$$NaS2CN(C2H5)2+AgNO3→AgS2CN(C2H5)2↓+NaNO3

Applications:

Analytical Chemistry:

• Key reagent in the colorimetric detection of arsenic (e.g., Gutzeit method). Arsine gas (AsH?) reacts with the compound in pyridine to form a red complex, measured spectrophotometrically.

• Used to analyze other heavy metals (e.g., antimony, bismuth) via similar complexation.

  Coordination Chemistry:

• Acts as a ligand in metal coordination complexes for research or industrial catalysis.

Safety Considerations:

• Toxicity: May release toxic gases (e.g., H?S, NO?) upon decomposition. Silver compounds can cause argyria with prolonged exposure.

• Handling: Use PPE (gloves, goggles), avoid light exposure, and store in dark, cool conditions.

CAS Number Significance:
1470-61-7 uniquely identifies this compound in chemical databases for regulatory, safety, and procurement purposes.

Stability:

• Sensitive to light, heat, and moisture. Store in amber containers under inert conditions.

This compound bridges inorganic and analytical chemistry, offering critical utility in environmental and industrial testing for toxic metals.