What Is Lithium Perchlorate?
Lithium perchlorate, with the formula LiClO4, is the lithium salt of perchloric acid, known for its excellent solubility in both water and organic solvents. It’s produced by reacting lithium chloride with sodium perchlorate.
As a common trait among perchlorates, it acts as an oxidizing agent and displays chaotropic behavior, disrupting water molecule networks due to its large ionic radius in solution.
Uses of Lithium Perchlorate
Its versatility is highlighted in applications ranging from electrolytes in lithium-ion batteries to catalysts in organic reactions, thanks to its high solubility and strong acid-base composition.
1. Lithium-Ion Batteries
As a vital electrolyte component, it enhances lithium-ion batteries and lithium-sulfur batteries’ performance.
2. Conductivity Enhancer
Improves conductivity in polymers, acting as a conductive additive.
3. Catalyst
Facilitates various organic chemical reactions as a Lewis acid due to its solubility in organic solvents.
4. Oxygen Source
Serves as an efficient oxygen source in chemical oxygen generators, due to its high oxygen content.
5. Chaotropic Agent
Used to denature proteins in highly concentrated solutions.
Properties of Lithium Perchlorate
It is offered in anhydrous and trihydrate forms, both exhibiting high solubility in water and organic solvents, alongside notable oxidizing properties.
1. Appearance, Solubility, Crystals
Characterized by its white color, odorlessness, and deliquescent nature (trihydrate form), lithium perchlorate’s solubility makes it invaluable across various applications.
2. Oxidizing Power
Its strong oxidizing ability stems from the chlorine in its highest oxidation state, capable of oxidizing adjacent substances.
Other Information on Lithium Perchlorate
1. Properties When Heated
Decomposes into lithium chloride and oxygen around 400℃, necessitating careful storage away from organic matter and reducing agents to prevent fires.
2. Hazards and Toxicity
GHS classified as an oxidizing solid with potential for serious eye damage and skin irritation, also noted for reproductive toxicity.
3. Related Laws and Regulations
Regulated under various safety and transport laws due to its oxidizing properties and potential contribution to combustion and explosion risks.