Anhydrous Aluminum Chloride

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Anhydrous Aluminum Chloride (AlCl₃) is a white to pale yellow crystalline solid known for its strong Lewis acid properties. It is a key catalyst widely used in organic synthesis, especially in Friedel-Crafts alkylation and acylation reactions. Due to its high reactivity with moisture, it must be stored and handled under strictly anhydrous conditions. Anhydrous Aluminum Chloride also finds applications in polymerization, pharmaceuticals, and the production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and petrochemicals.

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Categories: Catalysts, Coagulants and Flocculants, COSMETIC AND PERSONAL CARE CHEMICALS, Electronic Chemicals, Preservatives, SPECIALTY AND FINE CHEMICALS, WATER TREATMENT CHEMICALS Tags: Aluminum chloride, Anhydrous aluminum chloride, Catalyst in organic synthesis, Chemical manufacturing reagent, Pharmaceutical intermediate, Polymerization catalyst

Description

Table of Contents Toggle
- Uses
Uses

Primary Uses

Catalyst in Chemical Industry
- Widely used as a Lewis acid catalyst in Friedel-Crafts reactions for alkylation, acylation, and polymerization of aromatic hydrocarbons.
- Essential in the production of detergents, fragrances, dyes, and pharmaceuticals.
Petrochemical Processing
- Used in catalytic cracking and isomerization processes to improve fuel quality.
Organic Synthesis
- Facilitates complex organic transformations such as chlorination, sulfonation, and polymerization.

Secondary Uses

Pharmaceuticals
- Intermediate in manufacturing certain drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients.
Electronics & Materials Science
- Employed in etching and surface treatment of metals.
Water Treatment
- Sometimes used in wastewater treatment as a coagulating agent (less common than hydrated forms).

PRODUCT KEY FEATURES

Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Aluminum trichloride
Common/Trade Name: Anhydrous Aluminum Chloride, Aluminum trichloride
CAS Number: 7446-70-0
HS Code: 2827.39.10
Molecular Formula: AlCl₃
Synonyms:
- Aluminum chloride anhydrous
- AlCl3
- Aluminum(III) chloride

Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Crystalline solid (flakes, powder, or lumps)
Color & Odor: White to pale yellow, pungent odor when moist
Melting Point: 192.4°C (sublimes at higher temperatures)
Boiling Point: 180°C (sublimes)
Density: ~2.48 g/cm³
Solubility: Reacts violently with water, forming hydrochloric acid and aluminum hydroxide; soluble in carbon disulfide and some organic solvents
pH Level: Reacts to form acidic solutions on hydrolysis
Vapor Pressure: Significant at elevated temperature due to sublimation
Flash Point: Non-flammable
Autoignition Temperature: N/A
Reactivity: Highly reactive, especially with moisture and water

Safety & Hazard Attributes

Hazard Class (GHS): Corrosive, causes severe skin burns and eye damage; reacts violently with water
NFPA Ratings: Health 3, Flammability 0, Reactivity 2
Exposure Limits: OSHA PEL = 2 mg/m³ (as AlCl₃), ACGIH TLV similar
Reactivity: Reacts violently with water, releasing heat and corrosive HCl gas
Incompatibilities: Water, moisture, strong bases, oxidizers

Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in a tightly sealed container under dry, inert atmosphere (e.g., nitrogen) away from moisture and humidity
Container Type: Corrosion-resistant containers such as glass, plastic-lined steel drums
Shelf Life: Stable if stored properly in moisture-free conditions
Special Handling: Use in dry environments with moisture control; handle under fume hood or well-ventilated area; PPE required (gloves, goggles, respirator)

Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

Regulatory Status: Classified as hazardous chemical; complies with OSHA, REACH, and other chemical safety regulations
Transportation: Classified as corrosive material (UN 2920) with special packaging and labeling requirements
Waste Disposal: Dispose according to hazardous waste regulations; neutralize before disposal

Environmental & Health Impact

Ecotoxicity: Harmful to aquatic life due to acidity and aluminum ion release
Persistence: Decomposes in water but aluminum ions may persist
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic; corrosive effects predominate
Biodegradability: Not applicable (inorganic salt)

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE: Wear acid-resistant gloves, chemical safety goggles, face shield, and protective clothing. Use NIOSH-approved respirators when dust or fumes are present.
Handling: Avoid contact with moisture or water; handle in dry, well-ventilated areas or fume hoods. Prevent dust formation.
Storage: Store in airtight containers, in cool, dry areas away from incompatible substances like water or bases.
Hygiene: Wash thoroughly after handling; do not eat, drink, or smoke while using the chemical.
Spill Handling: Avoid dust generation; use inert absorbents and neutralize spills with lime or sodium bicarbonate cautiously.

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately; administer oxygen if breathing is difficult; seek medical attention urgently.
Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing; wash affected area with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention.
Eye Contact: Rinse eyes immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek urgent medical care.
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; rinse mouth and seek emergency medical care immediately.

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Not flammable but reacts violently with water releasing corrosive HCl gas and heat.
Extinguishing Media: Use dry chemical powder, sand, or special Class D extinguishers; DO NOT use water.
Special Precautions: Firefighters must wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) due to toxic fumes.
Preventive Actions: Avoid exposure to moisture and maintain good ventilation.