Iron(III) Chloride
Ferric Chloride, Iron Trichloride
- CAS
- 7705-08-0
- EC
- 231-729-4
- Sectors
- Water & Wastewater Treatment, Electronics & Solar PV, Textiles, Leather & Paper
Iron(III) Chloride (CAS 7705-08-0) is an inorganic ferric salt that appears as a black-brown, dark-green or black crystalline solid, handled as a yellow powder, hydrolyzes in water to yield ferric hydroxide and hydrochloric acid, and is used as a coagulant, an etchant and a pigment and dye intermediate.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | Cl3Fe |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 162.2 g/mol |
| Appearance | Ferric Chloride is a black-brown, dark-green, or black crystalline solid. |
| Form | powder |
| Color | Yellow |
| Melting point | ~300 °C (approx) |
| Boiling point | ~316 °C (approx) |
| Density | 2.898 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C |
| Water solubility | 920 g/L (20 °C) |
| Flash point | 316°C |
| pH | 1 (200g/l, H2O, 20°C) |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Corrosive, Irritant / harmful, Health hazard, Environmental hazard |
| HS code | 28273990 |
| 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.
Iron(III) Chloride
Applications
Used as a coagulant in wastewater treatment, an etchant in printed circuit board manufacturing, and a reagent in organic synthesis. Also employed in pigment and dye production.
Safety & Risks
Corrosive and may cause burns; handle with acid-resistant PPE. Avoid contact with metals and strong bases.
Packaging
Delivered in 25 kg bags (solid) or 200 kg drums (solution). Store dry and protected from moisture in corrosion-resistant containers.