Since DCM sits below the polar layer, this can mean very small water droplets can often sit on the surface when it is separated and drained. Unlike less dense solvents which sit above the polar layer, its not really possible to decant the polar droplets off without losing solvent - so for this reason I’ll often leave the tiniest bit of DCM in the funnel when draining to avoid this.
Of course I would prefer to get every last drop, so wondering whether adding a drying agent to absorb any water droplets might work well.
However..
I’ve read that using metallic compounds like Na2SO4 or MgSO4 can carry risk of delayed explosive reaction when mixed with halogenated solvents.. in this case I would not be shaking it to dry the DCM per se - just adding a bit to grab the water droplets from the surface and letting it sink to the bottom before decanting and filtering the DCM.
I was wondering whether someone might be able to offer some advice here. How much of a risk is this? Bearing in mind I would not really need to agitate the solution..
@Transform ?
Of course I would prefer to get every last drop, so wondering whether adding a drying agent to absorb any water droplets might work well.
However..
I’ve read that using metallic compounds like Na2SO4 or MgSO4 can carry risk of delayed explosive reaction when mixed with halogenated solvents.. in this case I would not be shaking it to dry the DCM per se - just adding a bit to grab the water droplets from the surface and letting it sink to the bottom before decanting and filtering the DCM.
I was wondering whether someone might be able to offer some advice here. How much of a risk is this? Bearing in mind I would not really need to agitate the solution..
@Transform ?
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