Aluminium Chloride
Aluminium trichloride, AlCl3, Anhydrous Alum Chloride
- CAS
- 7446-70-0
- EC
- 231-208-1
- Sectors
- Oil, Gas & Energy, Rubber & Elastomers
Aluminium Chloride (CAS 7446-70-0) is an anhydrous Lewis acid salt supplied as a yellow to gray powder, valued as a strong catalyst for Friedel-Crafts reactions and for producing synthetic lubricants, hydrocarbon resins and petrochemical intermediates. It is characterized by its strong exothermic reactivity and efficiency in synthesizing complex organic compounds. Its ability to facilitate carbon-carbon bond formation makes it indispensable in modern aromatic synthesis. Available in granular or powder grades, it provides high surface area for efficient reaction kinetics in manufacturing. It is a critical component for the production of ethylbenzene and other aromatic derivatives.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | AlCl3 |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 133.34 g/mol |
| Form | powder |
| Color | Yellow to gray |
| Odor | Hydrogen chloride odor detectable when exposed to moist air |
| Melting point | 192.6 °C |
| Boiling point | 182.7 °C @ Press: 752 Torr |
| Density | 2.48 g/cm³ |
| Water solubility | reacts |
| Flash point | 88 °C |
| pH | 2.4 (100g/l, H2O, 20°C) |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Corrosive, Irritant / harmful, Health hazard, Environmental hazard |
| HS code | 28273200 |
| Grades available | Technical Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Aluminium Chloride
Applications
- Hydrocarbon Processing: Acts as a primary catalyst in the alkylation of benzene to produce ethylbenzene.
- Pigment Production: Used as a reagent in the manufacturing of various industrial dyes and phthalocyanine pigments.
- Synthetic Rubber: Functions as a polymerization agent in the production of high-performance elastomers and resins.
Safety & Risks
Classified as Corrosive (Class 8). It causes severe skin burns and eye damage upon contact. Handling requires acid-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and respiratory protection in dry environments.
Packaging
Standard 25kg moisture-proof bags, 1000kg Big Bags, and specialized steel drums.