lithiumoxide

Lithium oxide, with the chemical formula Li2O, is an inorganic compound that is the oxide of lithium. It is a white solid classified as a basic oxide and is one of the simple lithium oxides.

Preparation and occurrence

Li2O can be produced by burning lithium metal in oxygen: 4 Li + O2 → 2 Li2O. It can also arise from the decomposition of lithium peroxide (Li2O2 → Li2O + 1/2 O2). In air, Li2O may slowly react with carbon dioxide to form lithium carbonate (Li2CO3).

Chemical properties

Li2O reacts vigorously with water to form lithium hydroxide: Li2O + H2O → 2 LiOH. The reaction is strongly exothermic. Li2O is soluble in water, yielding LiOH in solution. It can also react with CO2 to give Li2CO3. In the solid state, Li2O adopts a cubic antifluorite structure, with oxide ions in a fcc lattice and lithium ions occupying tetrahedral sites.

Uses

Li2O serves as a flux in glass and ceramic industries, helping to lower melting temperatures and modify thermal expansion. It is also used as a precursor for the synthesis of other lithium compounds and as a source of lithium in various materials and chemical processes.

Safety

Li2O is caustic and reacts violently with water and acids, releasing heat. It should be handled under dry, inert or controlled conditions and stored in airtight, moisture-free containers with appropriate protective equipment.