Alumiinifluoridia

Alumiinifluoridi, chemical formula AlF3, is an inorganic compound and a salt of aluminum and fluorine. It typically appears as a white crystalline solid. Alumiinifluoridi is sparingly soluble in water but dissolves in molten cryolite. Its synthesis can be achieved by various methods, often involving the reaction of aluminum compounds with hydrofluoric acid or fluorine sources at elevated temperatures.

Industrially, alumiinifluoridi plays a crucial role as a flux in the electrolytic production of aluminum metal. When added to the molten cryolite bath in aluminum smelters, it lowers the melting point and increases the electrical conductivity of the bath. This reduces the energy required for aluminum smelting and improves the efficiency of the process. Alumiinifluoridi is also used in the manufacturing of ceramics and glass, where it can act as a whitening agent or contribute to specific optical properties. In some specialized applications, it has been explored for its potential in materials science and as a catalyst. Handling alumiinifluoridi requires care due to its potential to release toxic fumes, particularly hydrogen fluoride, when heated in the presence of moisture.