Many dyes, pigments and organic compounds in general were created during the mid 1800s in Germany. This is also true for most of the azo dyes like azobenzene whose synthesis was first published between 1855-1856. Synthesis of all azo dyes is a multistep process that starts from the treatment of one compound or chemical with nitric acid, a very corrosive and dangerous substance. The next step involves a catalysis reaction where a metal helps to mediate how new linkages between atoms are created. For safety reasons, azo dye should only be produced in an industrial setting and should not be attempted elsewhere.
- Nitric acid
- Sulfuric acid
- Water
- Acetic acid
- Benzene
- Iron filings
- Beakers
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Instructions
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1
Synthesize nitrobenzene by combining sulfuric acid, nitric acid and water into a beaker and adding benzene. This reaction produces enormous amounts of heat and is extremely exothermic.Nitrobenzene is very toxic to people and is readily absorbed through the skin.
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2
Synthesize azobenzene by combining the nitrobenzene, acetic acid and iron filings.
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3
Leave the solution of evaporate over several days. The azo dye (azobenzene) will be left behind as plate-like yellow crystals.
