Scandium chloride

Scandium Chloride is a chemical compound with the formula ScCl₃. It is a white, high-melting solid that is soluble in water and ethanol. Scandium chloride is used in various applications, including organic synthesis, the preparation of scandium metal, and in the field of materials science for the production of advanced materials.

Properties

Scandium chloride exists in several forms, including the anhydrous form (ScCl₃) and hydrates such as ScCl₃·6H₂O. The anhydrous form is a white or slightly yellow solid with a high melting point, while the hydrates are more readily soluble in water.

Chemical

Scandium chloride reacts with water to form hydrated forms. In organic synthesis, it can act as a Lewis acid, facilitating various chemical reactions. It is also involved in the preparation of other scandium compounds.

Physical

The anhydrous form of scandium chloride has a high melting point and is relatively stable under normal conditions. It is soluble in water and ethanol, making it useful in various chemical processes.

Production

Scandium chloride is typically produced by the chlorination of scandium oxide (Sc₂O₃) with carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) or by reacting scandium metal with chlorine gas. The process yields anhydrous ScCl₃, which can then be hydrated if necessary.

Applications

Scandium chloride is used in the synthesis of organic compounds as a Lewis acid. It is also a starting material for the production of high-purity scandium metal, which is used in advanced materials such as aerospace components and solid oxide fuel cells. Additionally, scandium chloride finds applications in the preparation of other scandium compounds and in materials science research.

Safety

Scandium chloride should be handled with care, as it is an irritant to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Appropriate safety measures, including the use of personal protective equipment, should be taken when handling this chemical.

See Also

• Scandium
• Lewis acids and bases
• Chemical synthesis
• Advanced materials