PYROLYSIS OF TETRALIN

The pyrolysis of tetralin has been studied at 500 °C. The pyrolysis products resulting from the decomposition of 1-13C-tetralin were analysed by 13C n.m.r. spectroscopy to determine the carbon redistribution in these substances. Some results were confirmed by experiments with 14C-labelled compounds. Under the conditions employed, carbon scrambling is observed only in the aliphatic portion of the products. The primary mode of decomposition of tetralin proceeds via homolysis of the 1-8a bond. No equilibrium between tetralin and naphthalene plus hydrogen takes place in the absence of a catalyst. © 1979.