lithiumaluminum

Lithium aluminide, or LiAl, is an intermetallic compound formed from lithium and aluminum in a roughly 1:1 ratio. It is one of several phases that appear in the binary lithium–aluminum system when the elements are combined at elevated temperatures. LiAl is characterized as an ordered intermetallic, and its crystal structure and stability depend on synthesis conditions such as temperature and cooling rate.

Preparation and structure are closely tied to the Li–Al phase diagram. LiAl is typically produced by high-temperature reaction of lithium metal with aluminum, often under an inert atmosphere to prevent unwanted reactions with air or moisture. As with many intermetallics containing lithium, LiAl can be reactive with moisture and air, so handling is usually done in controlled environments to minimize degradation and safety risks.

Properties and applications are primarily of academic and exploratory interest. LiAl tends to be brittle compared with pure metals, and its properties reflect the characteristics of intermetallic compounds rather than conventional alloys. The main value of LiAl in current research lies in understanding phase relations in the Li–Al system and in evaluating the behavior of lightweight intermetallics. While LiAl and related materials have been discussed in the context of potential uses in lightweight structural components, battery electrodes, or hydrogen storage, they have not achieved widespread commercial application.

Safety and handling: due to the reactive nature of lithium-containing materials, LiAl is typically handled under inert atmosphere and away from moisture. Proper training and containment are necessary to minimize hazards during synthesis, storage, and any attempted processing. See also lithium aluminum hydride and lithium-containing aluminum alloys for related material systems.