Ferrous malonate dihydrate thermal decomposition

Abstract A ferrous malonate dihydrate has been produced and its thermal decomposition investigated under conditions of limited access of air and in argon. The decomposition was examined by thermogravimetric and differential thermal analyses. The products obtained were studied by X-ray phase, chemical and chromatographic analyses. FeC 3 H 2 O 4 ·2H 2 O dehydration occurred at 230°C in argon as well as in limited access of air. Under the latter conditions FeO is formed, which transforms to Fe 3 O 4 , and then to γ-Fe 2 O 3 at about 410°C. In argon, Fe 3 O 4 forms and does not change during further heating. In the thermal decomposition process transformations gradually progress through single crystals.