raudIIIkloriid

RaudIIIkloriid, also known as ferric chloride, is a chemical compound with the formula FeCl3. It is an inorganic compound that appears as a dark-colored crystalline solid. In its anhydrous form, it is a dark purple, crystalline solid, but it is commonly encountered as a hydrated form, typically hexahydrate (FeCl3·6H2O), which is a yellow-brown to orange-brown solid.

Ferric chloride is highly soluble in water and exhibits acidic properties due to hydrolysis. It is a deliquescent substance, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the air. Industrially, it is often produced by the direct reaction of iron with chlorine gas.

One of the primary uses of ferric chloride is in water treatment. It acts as a coagulant and flocculant, helping to remove impurities from wastewater and drinking water by causing suspended particles to clump together, making them easier to filter out. It is also used in sewage treatment for the removal of phosphates.

In laboratory settings, anhydrous ferric chloride is a common Lewis acid, used as a catalyst in various organic reactions, such as Friedel-Crafts alkylation and acylation. It also finds application in etching processes, particularly for printed circuit boards and in metal etching. Historically, it has been used as a styptic to stop bleeding. Its corrosive nature requires careful handling and appropriate safety precautions.