Lithium Chloride (LiCl) – Versatile Compound for Industrial and Laboratory Applications | CAS 7447-41-8
Catalog Number: ASC-1026
Introduction
Lithium chloride (LiCl) is an inorganic compound renowned for its exceptional properties and wide-ranging applications across various industries. As a white crystalline solid, lithium chloride is highly hygroscopic and soluble in water, making it a valuable asset in fields like chemistry, metallurgy, air conditioning, and biochemistry. Understanding its characteristics, uses, and handling precautions is crucial for professionals looking to leverage this compound effectively.
Key Features
Chemical Formula: LiCl
CAS Number: 7447-41-8
Molecular Weight: 42.39 g/mol
Appearance: White crystalline powder or granules
Hygroscopic Nature: Strong affinity for moisture absorption
Solubility: Highly soluble in water and polar solvents
Melting Point: 605°C (1,121°F)
Boiling Point: 1,382°C (2,519.6°F)
Density: 2.07 g/cm³ at 25°C
pH (1% solution): Approximately 6.5
Chemical and Physical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | LiCl |
| Molecular Weight | 42.39 g/mol |
| Appearance | White crystalline solid |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Density | 2.07 g/cm³ at 25°C |
| Melting Point | 605°C (1,121°F) |
| Boiling Point | 1,382°C (2,519.6°F) |
| Solubility in Water | 83 g/100 mL at 20°C |
| Solubility | Soluble in ethanol, methanol |
| Hygroscopicity | Highly hygroscopic |
| Crystal Structure | Cubic |
| Electronegativity | 1.0 (Pauling scale) |
Applications
1. Biochemical Applications
RNA Precipitation: Used in molecular biology for precipitating RNA from cellular extracts during purification processes.
Protein Folding Studies: Facilitates the denaturation and renaturation of proteins in laboratory experiments.
2. Air Conditioning and Dehumidification
Desiccant Properties: Lithium chloride's hygroscopic nature makes it an effective desiccant for controlling humidity in air conditioning systems.
Humidity Control: Used in industrial dehumidifiers and drying units to maintain optimal moisture levels.
3. Chemical Synthesis
Organic Reactions: Acts as a catalyst and reagent in organic synthesis, particularly in the formation of organolithium compounds.
Solvent Additive: Enhances the properties of solvents in certain reactions, improving yields and selectivity.
4. Metallurgy
Aluminum Brazing Flux: Serves as a component in fluxes for soldering aluminum and its alloys.
Electrolytic Production: Involved in the extraction of lithium metal through the electrolysis of molten lithium chloride.
5. Heat and Moisture Batteries
Energy Storage: Employed in chemical heat pumps and thermal energy storage systems due to its high enthalpy of solution.
6. Flame Colorant
Pyrotechnics: Produces a bright red flame when burned, making it useful in fireworks and flares for color effects.
Advantages
High Solubility: Easily dissolves in water, enabling effective use in various aqueous applications.
Thermal Stability: Retains properties at high temperatures, suitable for thermal energy storage and metallurgy.
Moisture Absorption: Exceptional desiccant capabilities for humidity control.
Chemical Compatibility
Compatible With:
Water
Ethanol
Methanol
Incompatible With:
Strong oxidizing agents
Moist air (due to hygroscopic nature)
