What Is Aluminum Fluoride?
Aluminum fluoride (AlF3) is an ionic compound recognized for its significance in various industrial applications. With a CAS number of 7784-18-1, it is identified as a hazardous substance, necessitating proper labeling and handling.
Uses of Aluminum Fluoride
Aluminum fluoride’s primary applications include serving as a smelting flux for metals, a glaze for ceramics, and a flux for welding rods. It is crucial in the electrolytic smelting of aluminum, lowering alumina’s melting point and enhancing electrical conductivity. Furthermore, its ultraviolet transmission properties make it valuable for optical lenses, including those in cameras and digital SLRs, scintillators, and optical fibers.
Properties of Aluminum Fluoride
This compound boasts a formula weight of 83.98, with a high melting point of 1,291°C and a boiling point of 1,272°C. As an odorless, white solid, it exhibits sublimation and has a density of 3.07 g/mL. Soluble in water to a degree, it reacts violently with sodium and potassium, and upon exposure to acids, releases toxic fumes. Nonflammable, it poses risks when interacting with air, humidity, or active hydrogen compounds.
Types of Aluminum Fluoride
Aluminum fluoride is marketed both for research, in quantities like 10g to 500g, and for industrial use, in larger volumes starting at 20 kg. Its industrial applications span optical film materials, fluoride lens manufacturing, and as a solvent in aluminum electrolysis.
Other Information on Aluminum Fluoride
1. Synthesis of Aluminum Fluoride
It can be synthesized through the reaction of aluminum oxide with hydrogen fluoride or from aluminum hydroxide and metallic aluminum with hydrogen fluoride, heated to around 700°C.
2. Crystal Structure of Aluminum Fluoride
Aluminum fluoride’s octahedral structure, similar to rhenium oxide (VI), contributes to its refractory nature, distinguishing it from other halogen analogs.
3. Aluminum Fluoride Hydrate
Its hydrates, varying in water content, include monohydrate, trihydrate, hexahydrate, and nonahydrate forms, demonstrating the compound’s versatility.
4. Safety Information on Aluminum Fluoride
Recognized as hazardous, aluminum fluoride’s risks include toxicity upon ingestion, eye and respiratory irritation, potential reproductive harm, and bone damage after prolonged exposure. Compliance with legal and regulatory guidelines is essential for its handling and disposal.