Removing additives in diethyl ether?

Question

Removing additives in diethyl ether?

Answer 1

I am not certain of your question...But if you mean removing peroxides that form in anhydrous ether over time ..Distilling the ether from zinc dust containing a trace of acetic acid works well.  You can test for the presense of peroxides in ether by reacting a small amount of the ether ( 2 mL ) with an equal volume of  2% FeSO4. This mixture is allowed to react for ~ 5 minutes then a solution of 2 % potassium thiocyanate is added .....if the solution turns blood red..peroxides are present at

dangerous levels.  If you are referring to removing the small amount of BHT or other antioxidant that may have been added...distillation is still your best option. Be very careful ..do not use open flame.. use explosion proof heaters or best water bath...in a fume hood . The ether will be "wet" unless it is from an unoened anhydrous source. If you require totally anhydrous diethyl ether ( like for a Grignard reaction )

this requires special technique....if you require more ..just ask.

Answer 2

Distillation works but it's very dangerous and difficult.  I'm thinking that your application would allow you to substitute petroleum ether.