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Crosslinkers & Modifiers

Tetramethyl Orthosilicate (TMOS) | Manta TMOS

Manta TMOS is tetramethoxysilane (tetramethyl orthosilicate, CAS 681-84-5), a fast-hydrolyzing source of high-purity silicon dioxide for sol-gel processes, thin-film coatings and chemical vapor deposition. It hydrolyzes significantly faster than tetraethoxysilane, and it is also used as a crosslinker in RTV silicone rubber and as a moisture scavenger in sealing compositions.

Grade
TMOS
Chemical Name
Tetramethoxysilane; Tetramethyl orthosilicate
CAS No.
681-84-5
EINECS
211-656-4
Formula
C4H12O4Si
Form
Colorless transparent liquid

Overview

Manta TMOS is a colorless liquid used primarily as a source of high-purity silicon dioxide (SiO2). Its small molecular size and high reactivity make it hydrolyze significantly faster than tetraethoxysilane, which shortens processing times in precision sol-gel work, thin-film coatings and chemical synthesis.

When fully hydrolyzed, TMOS provides a dense silica-gel binder that enhances the structural integrity and chemical resistance of substrates, and it forms transparent, hard silica films for optical and electronic coatings. Its methoxy groups release methanol on hydrolysis.

Manta TEOS28 is the tetraethoxy counterpart. TMOS reacts faster and gives a higher silica yield by weight, while TEOS28 releases ethanol and has a higher flash point (48 °C against 26°C, closed cup).

Key Features

  • Hydrolyzes significantly faster than tetraethoxysilane, shortening sol-gel processing times
  • High silica yield for inorganic binder reinforcement
  • Forms transparent, hard silica films for optical and electronic coatings
  • SiO2 matrix resistant to high temperatures and chemical degradation
  • Releases methanol on hydrolysis

Cross-Reference

Manta TMOS can be considered as an alternative to Evonik Dynasylan M.

Trademarks are the property of their respective owners; no affiliation is implied.

Specifications

Typical properties of Manta TMOS
PropertyTypical Value
AppearanceColorless transparent liquid
Molecular Weight152.22
Boiling Point at 760mmHg121~122°C
Flash Point, Closed cup26°C
Density (ρ25°C, g/cm³)1.023
Refractive Index (n25/D)1.3630-1.3730
Purity (%)96min

Typical values from the current Technical Data Sheet.

Applications

  • Sol-gel process: starting material for high-purity silica gels, aerogels and specialty glasses, and for organic-inorganic hybrid materials at room temperature
  • Optical and scratch-resistant coatings: treatment of glass and plastic lenses for a hard, scratch-resistant finish, and anti-reflective and protective coatings in precision optics
  • Electronics and semiconductors: precursor for chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of dielectric layers and insulating films on semiconductor wafers
  • Silicone rubber and sealants: crosslinker in room-temperature vulcanized (RTV) silicone rubber, and drying agent (moisture scavenger) in sealing compositions to extend shelf life
  • Refractory fillers and pigment treatment: inorganic binder for refractory materials, pigments and ceramic fibers, giving high-temperature stability and improving mechanical strength through a protective silica layer
  • Chemical intermediate: building block for organofunctional silanes and specialty polysilicic acid esters

Related applications: Adhesives & Sealants · Paints & Coatings · Composites & Fiberglass · Plastics & Masterbatches · Rubber & Tires

Packaging & Storage

Supplied in 20 kg pail, 180 kg drum and 900 kg IBC.

Safety and Storage

Extremely sensitive to moisture; ensure containers are hermetically sealed and purged with dry nitrogen after every use.

Safety Note: TMOS is fatal if inhaled (H330), causes serious eye damage (H318) and is a flammable liquid (H226); read the SDS before handling. Handle with strict adherence to safety protocols (PPE and ventilation). When stored at or below 25 °C in the original unopened containers, this product has a usable life of 12 months from the date of production.

Documents

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I use Manta TMOS instead of Manta TEOS28?

Choose TMOS when reaction speed and silica yield matter most. It hydrolyzes significantly faster than TEOS28 and yields more silica by weight on full hydrolysis, which shortens processing times in precision sol-gel work and thin films. TEOS28 releases ethanol rather than methanol on hydrolysis.

What safety precautions does Manta TMOS require?

TMOS is fatal if inhaled (H330), causes serious eye damage (H318) and is a flammable liquid (H226), with a flash point of 26°C (closed cup). Handle it with strict adherence to PPE and ventilation requirements and read the SDS before handling. The SDS is available on request.

What role does Manta TMOS play in silicone rubber and sealants?

It acts as a crosslinker in room-temperature vulcanized (RTV) silicone rubber systems and as a drying agent (moisture scavenger) in sealing compositions to extend shelf life.

How should opened containers of Manta TMOS be handled?

TMOS is extremely sensitive to moisture, so containers must be hermetically sealed and purged with dry nitrogen after every use. In the original unopened containers at or below 25 °C, the usable life is 12 months from the date of production.

Looking for a different purity, functional group, or a structure not listed here? Contact our technical team.

Talk to our technical team

Tell us your application, target properties and estimated quantity. We will suggest grades and arrange documents or samples.