Diborane (B2H6) is a chemical compound composed of two boron (B) atoms and six hydrogen (H) atoms. It is a highly reactive, pyrophoric, and toxic gas at room temperature, making it challenging to handle and store. Diborane is infamous for its potent and offensive smell, described as a sweet, pungent, and “garlic-like” odor.

Diborane has a unique structure, consisting of two boron atoms bridged by four hydrogen atoms. The molecule has a banana-shaped structure with two hydrogen atoms on each boron atom.

Here are some important properties and uses of diborane:

1. Lewis Acid: Diborane is a strong Lewis acid, readily accepting a pair of electrons during chemical reactions. As a Lewis acid, it can participate in various organic synthesis reactions, acting as a catalyst.
2. Hydroboration: Diborane is used in hydroboration reactions, where it adds boron-hydrogen bonds across carbon-carbon double or triple bonds. These reactions are important in the synthesis of organoboron compounds, which find applications in various chemical processes.
3. Reducing Agent: Diborane is a powerful reducing agent and can donate electrons in chemical reactions.
4. Rocket Fuel: In the past, diborane was used as a rocket fuel because of its high energy content. However, it is no longer used due to its extreme reactivity and safety concerns.
5. Boron Source: Diborane is used as a precursor to produce other boron-containing compounds.

Due to its hazardous nature and safety risks, diborane is rarely used directly in laboratories or industrial processes. Instead, it is typically employed in closed systems, using specialized equipment and under strict safety protocols. It is essential to handle diborane with extreme caution and to follow all safety guidelines when working with this compound.