Reaction of silicon tetrafluoride with calcium hydride as a propagating wave.

The synthesis of silane by reacting silicon tetrafluoride and calcium hydride is shown to proceed as a propagating wave. The main parameters of the process, namely, the propagation velocity, the reaction front temperature, and calcium conversion, are determined. The mathematical model of wave propagation for an exothermic reaction in a porous medium with purging a gaseous oxidant describes qualitatively the major laws of the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]