Aluminum chloride

Aluminum chloride (AlCl3) is a compound of aluminum and chlorine. It is white, but samples are often contaminated with iron(III) chloride, giving it a yellow color. The solid has a low melting and boiling point. It is mainly produced and consumed in the production of aluminum metal, but large amounts are also used in other areas of the chemical industry. The compound is often cited as a Lewis acid. It is an example of an inorganic compound that "cracks" at mild temperature to give a family of compounds.

Production

Aluminum chloride is manufactured on a large scale by the exothermic reaction of aluminum metal with chlorine or hydrogen chloride at temperatures between 650 to 750 °C.

Structure and properties

Aluminum chloride, AlCl3, is a white, crystalline solid, and an ionic compound. At room temperature, it is a poor electrical conductor but it conducts electricity well when it is melted or dissolved in water.

Uses

Aluminum chloride finds a wide variety of other applications in organic chemistry. For example, it can catalyze the "Friedel-Crafts reaction" between benzene and an acyl chloride. It is also commonly used as a Lewis acid for catalyzing reactions in organic synthesis.

Health effects

Exposure to aluminum chloride can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. It is considered a moderate hazard and could be harmful if inhaled or ingested.

See also

• Aluminum
• Chlorine
• Chemical compound
• Inorganic compound
• Organic chemistry
• Friedel-Crafts reaction