Abstract: A process for converting a high-boiling fraction resulting from the reaction of methyl chloride with silicon metalloid in a process typically referred to as the "direct process" to monosilanes. The process comprises forming a mixture comprising a low-boiling fraction comprising monosilanes and a high-boiling fraction comprising polymeric silicon containing compounds and contacting the mixture with hydrogen gas in the presence of a catalyst effective in promoting conversion of the polymeric silicon containing compounds to monosilanes. The process results in conversion of the high-boiling fraction to monosilanes. At least a portion of the catalyst present may be formed in situ during conduct of the direct process and isolation of the fractions.

Abstract: A process for the use of water granulated silicon in the preparation of alkylhalosilanes. The process comprises contacting an alkyl halide described by formula RX, with a particulate water granulated silicon containing greater than 0.5 to about 5.0 weight percent iron, in the presence of a catalyst composition comprising copper, at a temperature within a range of about 250.degree. C. to 350.degree. C. where R is selected from the group consisting of alkyls comprising one to about four carbon atoms and X is a halogen.