Identification of volatile iron species generated by UV photolysis

The volatile products of photochemical generation (PVG) of iron from solutions of formic and acetic acids were examined by GC-MS. Iron pentacarbonyl was the sole analytical species detected in both cases, as confirmed by comparison of the results with a NIST reference spectrum. Silylation of the interior surfaces of the quartz tubing comprising the photochemical reactor essentially eliminated memory effects such that signal duration was determined simply by the residence time of the sample solution.

► The volatile products of PVG of Fe were examined by GC-MS.
► Iron pentacarbonyl was the specie detected in the presence of formic and acetic acid.
► Comparison of the results with a NIST reference spectrum.
► Silylation of the interior surfaces of the quartz tubing eliminated memory effects.