LiCl

LiCl, or lithium chloride, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula LiCl. It consists of lithium cations and chloride anions arranged in a crystal lattice. The solid is white, odorless, and highly hygroscopic, absorbing moisture from the air and forming hydrated crystals. It is readily soluble in water; aqueous solutions are essentially neutral.

LiCl has a high melting point of about 605°C and a high boiling point well above 1,300°C, reflecting strong ionic bonds. It can be prepared by reacting lithium hydroxide with hydrochloric acid, by burning lithium metal in chlorine, or by treating lithium carbonate with hydrochloric acid and removing carbon dioxide.

Industrial uses include fluxing in metalworking and ceramics; drying agents for solvents and gases; and as a source of chloride ions in organic synthesis. In organometallic chemistry, adding LiCl to polar aprotic solvents improves the solubility of certain organolithium reagents. In the production of lithium metal, LiCl is a key component of molten salt electrolytes in the Downs process. LiCl–KCl eutectics are used as high-temperature heat transfer fluids in some solar and nuclear applications.

Safety: LiCl is corrosive to skin and eyes and can be harmful if ingested or inhaled. It should be handled with appropriate protective equipment and stored in a cool, dry place away from incompatible materials.