What Is Platinum Chloride?
Platinum chloride refers to complexes of platinum and chlorine, notably hexachloroplatinic acid (H2[PtCl6]) and tetrachloroplatinic acid (H2[PtCl4]). Hexachloroplatinic acid, often used in its hexahydrate form, is the more commonly utilized variant in various applications.
Uses of Platinum Chloride
Platinum chloride serves as a precursor for synthesizing platinum-based compounds and catalysts, and in analytical chemistry as a source of platinum ions. It’s instrumental in producing oxidation catalysts like platinum asbestos, utilized in generating hydrogen and oxygen, and in platinum plating for its cost-effectiveness compared to rhodium plating.
Properties of Platinum Chloride
Hexachloroplatinic acid hexahydrate is a reddish-brown solid, highly deliquescent, and soluble in water and ethanol. It exhibits strong acidity in aqueous solutions and has a molecular weight of 517.891, a melting point of 60°C, and a density of 2.431 g/mL.
Types of Platinum Chloride
The two main types of platinum chloride include platinum(IV) hexachloride and platinum(II) tetrachloride acids, with the former primarily sold as a hydrate for research and development, and the latter available as potassium or sodium salt hydrates.
1. Platinum(IV) Hexachloride Acid
This form is primarily available as hexahydrate for R&D purposes and as a precious metal chemical in quantities suitable for synthesis, catalyst production, and plating.
2. Platinum(II) Tetrachloride Acid
While not widely sold directly, its sodium and potassium salt hydrates are available for use as reagents.
Other Information on Platinum Chloride
Synthesis of Platinum Chloride
Hexachloroplatinic acid can be synthesized by dissolving platinum in royal water or more purely by suspending platinum powder in concentrated hydrochloric acid and introducing chlorine gas or hydrogen peroxide to oxidize the metal.