Aluminiumtriklorid

Aluminiumtrichloride, also known as aluminum chloride, is a chemical compound with the formula AlCl₃. It appears as a white or slightly yellowish crystalline solid at room temperature. The compound is hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the environment, and forms hydrated forms such as AlCl₃·6H₂O.

Aluminiumtrichloride is primarily produced through the direct chlorination of aluminum metal or aluminum scrap at elevated temperatures. It can also be obtained by the reaction of chlorine gas with aluminum hydroxide or aluminum oxide. Its production is of commercial importance due to its applications in various industrial processes.

In industry, aluminiumtrichloride is widely used as a catalyst in the production of petrochemicals, such as alkylation and isomerization reactions. It plays a critical role in the manufacturing of high-octane gasoline components and other hydrocarbons. Additionally, AlCl₃ is used in the synthesis of other chemicals, as a mordant in dyeing processes, and in water treatment to remove impurities.

Chemically, aluminiumtrichloride exhibits Lewis acidic properties owing to the presence of aluminum, which allows it to accept electron pairs. It reacts violently with water, producing hydrogen chloride gas and forming aluminum hydroxide or aluminum oxychlorides. Due to its corrosive nature, handling of AlCl₃ requires appropriate safety measures, including the use of protective equipment.

The compound's stability and reactivity make it a valuable reagent in scientific research and industrial manufacturing, but it also necessitates careful storage and disposal procedures to prevent environmental contamination and health risks.