Alumiinikloridi

Alumiinikloridi is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula AlCl3. It exists as a white or pale yellow crystalline solid and is highly soluble in water. In its anhydrous form, it is a Lewis acid, readily accepting electron pairs. This property makes it a crucial catalyst in many organic reactions, particularly in Friedel-Crafts alkylation and acylation processes, which are widely used in the synthesis of a vast array of organic chemicals.

Aluminum chloride is also employed in various industrial applications. It serves as a flocculant in water purification, helping to remove impurities by causing them to clump together. In the petroleum industry, it is used as a catalyst in the refining of crude oil. Furthermore, aluminum chloride is a common ingredient in antiperspirants, where it works by temporarily blocking sweat ducts. Its chemical reactivity also finds use in the production of aluminum metal itself.

The handling of anhydrous aluminum chloride requires caution due to its highly exothermic reaction with water, producing hydrochloric acid fumes. In aqueous solutions, it exists as hydrated ions. The compound is corrosive and can cause irritation to skin and eyes. Its widespread industrial utility stems from its catalytic activity and its role in various chemical processes.