What Is Lead Chloride?
Lead chloride refers primarily to lead(II) chloride (PbCl2), an inorganic compound of lead and chlorine, recognized for its white solid appearance at room temperature and use in various applications. Lead(IV) chloride (PbCl4), another compound with lead in a +4 oxidation state, is less commonly encountered.
Uses of Lead Chloride
Lead(II) chloride is pivotal in synthesizing perovskite solar cell precursors and serves as a fluxing agent in single-crystal growth. Its role in perovskite solar cells is due to their high energy conversion efficiencies and low production costs. Lead(II) chloride is also crucial in manufacturing catalysts and as an analytical reagent.
Properties of Lead Chloride
Lead(II) chloride exhibits notable thermal decomposition, producing toxic fumes, and is highly soluble in hot water compared to cold. In contrast, lead(IV) chloride is a yellow oily liquid that decomposes explosively on heating. Both compounds are regulated under safety laws due to their toxicity.
Structure of Lead Chloride
Lead(II) chloride forms white orthorhombic crystals, with lead ions coordinated to nine chloride ions in a complex geometric arrangement. In the gas phase, it adopts a bent structure with a Cl-Pb-Cl angle of 98°.
Other Information About Lead Chloride
1. Synthesis of Lead(II) Chloride
Lead(II) chloride can be synthesized through the reaction of lead compounds with chloride sources or directly by treating metallic lead with chlorine gas. It naturally occurs as cotunnite in volcanic regions.
2. Characteristics of Lead(IV) Chloride
Lead(IV) chloride, a yellow molecular crystal, is soluble in organic solvents and forms unstable hydrates with water. Its hydrolysis in moist air or decomposition in water highlights its reactive nature.