Aluminum Chloride Hexahydrate

Aluminum Chloride Hexahydrate (CAS Number: 7784-13-6) Supplier in Europe

Aluminum chloride hexahydrate is a chemical compound with the formula AlCl3•6H2O. It is the hydrated form of aluminum chloride, a common inorganic compound.

This substance appears as a colorless crystalline solid under normal conditions and is often found in a wide range of industrial and medical applications.

It serves as a potent Lewis acid and is utilized in various chemical reactions, particularly in the field of organic synthesis where it assists in the chlorination of aromatic hydrocarbons.

In the realm of medical applications, aluminum chloride hexahydrate plays a crucial role as an active ingredient in antiperspirant products.

Its effectiveness lies in its ability to temporarily block the sweat ducts, thereby reducing perspiration.

This feature makes it a valuable component in managing conditions such as hyperhidrosis, which is characterized by excessive sweating.

The compound operates by interacting with the keratin fibres in the sweat glands to form a physical plug that prevents sweat from reaching the skin’s surface.

Moreover, its use extends to the water treatment industry where it acts as a flocculent.

It assists in the removal of impurities from water by aggregating contaminants into larger particles that can be easily separated.

This quality demonstrates the versatility of aluminum chloride hexahydrate and underscores its importance across multiple sectors.

Despite the wide range of uses, handling of aluminum chloride hexahydrate requires care as it can be corrosive and irritating to the skin, necessitating appropriate safety precautions during use.

Chemical Properties

Aluminum Chloride Hexahydrate has distinct chemical properties, defined primarily by its molecular structure and its stability and reactivity under various conditions.

Molecular Structure

Aluminum Chloride Hexahydrate is denoted chemically as AlCl₃•6H₂O.

It consists of one aluminum ion (Al³⁺) associated with three chloride ions (Cl⁻) and six water molecules.

The aluminum ion at the center is octahedrally coordinated by the chloride ions and the water molecules.

This coordination gives the compound a layered crystalline structure which is pivotal in understanding its reactivity and interactions with other substances.

Stability and Reactivity

The stability of Aluminum Chloride Hexahydrate is compromised when exposed to high temperatures, where it can undergo a series of complex decomposition reactions. Here are key points to note about its stability and reactivity:

• Thermal Stability: Upon heating, Aluminum Chloride Hexahydrate loses its water molecules at approximately 100°C and transforms into anhydrous aluminum chloride above 190°C.
• Reactivity: It reacts vigorously with bases and is hydrolyzed by water. This is an important consideration when using or storing the compound.
• Incompatibilities: This substance is not compatible with strong oxidizing agents and alkali metals, as these combinations can lead to hazardous reactions.

This reactivity profile highlights the need for careful handling and appropriate storage conditions to maintain the compound’s stability.

Pharmaceutical Applications

Aluminum chloride hexahydrate is commonly used in the pharmaceutical sector due to its antiperspirant properties.

This compound works by blocking the sweat glands, thereby reducing perspiration.

It’s particularly beneficial for individuals with hyperhidrosis, a condition characterized by excessive sweating.

Primary Uses:

• Antiperspirants: Aluminum chloride hexahydrate is a key ingredient in prescription-strength antiperspirants. These formulations are employed when over-the-counter antiperspirants are ineffective.
• Hyperhidrosis Treatment: It’s also used to manage symptoms of hyperhidrosis. In this context, it’s available in different forms, including topical solutions, wipes, and roll-ons.

Formulation Strengths:

Form	Concentration	Application Method
Solution	10-30%	Topical
Wipes	Varies	Single-use
Roll-ons	15-20%	Topical

Safety Profile: While generally safe for topical application, one should use it with caution to minimize potential side effects. Patients may occasionally experience skin irritation or allergic reactions.

Clinical Trials: Studies have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of aluminum chloride hexahydrate in controlled clinical trials. They have also shown improvement in patient quality of life when used as a part of hyperhidrosis management.

It is advisable for patients to consult with healthcare professionals before starting treatment with aluminum chloride hexahydrate-based products. This ensures proper usage and monitoring of any adverse reactions.

Industrial Uses

Aluminum Chloride Hexahydrate is utilized in various industrial applications due to its properties as a Lewis acid and its effectiveness in chemical reactions.

Catalysis

Aluminum Chloride Hexahydrate acts as a catalyst in the Friedel-Crafts reaction, one of the cornerstones of organic synthesis.

It accelerates the alkylation and acylation of aromatic compounds, facilitating the formation of complex molecular structures essential in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals.

Chemical Synthesis

In chemical synthesis, Aluminum Chloride Hexahydrate is employed to produce anthraquinone, which is a critical intermediate for dye and pigment industry.

Its role is also significant in the production of hydrocarbons through polymerization and isomerization reactions, where it helps in refining the structure of hydrocarbons for fuel and lubricant applications.

Methods of Production

Aluminum chloride hexahydrate (AlCl₃·6H₂O) is primarily produced through a reaction between aluminum hydroxide and hydrochloric acid. This process involves several well-defined steps, each critical to obtaining a high-purity end product.

Chemical Reaction

1. Starting Materials: Aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)₃) reacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl).
2. Reaction Equation: ( Al(OH)_3 + 6HCl → AlCl_3·6H_2O )

Industrial Production Steps

1. Mixing: Aluminum hydroxide is introduced into a reaction vessel, where hydrochloric acid is added. The solution is constantly stirred to ensure complete mixing.
2. Heating: The mixture is heated to promote the reaction, forming aluminum chloride and water.
3. Crystallization: Upon cooling, aluminum chloride hexahydrate crystals begin to form.
4. Filtration: The crystalline solid is separated from the remaining liquid by filtration.
5. Drying: The product is dried to remove excess moisture, yielding the final hexahydrate crystals.

Purity Considerations

• High-grade reactants are used to minimize impurities.
• The product must be kept away from moisture to prevent hydrolysis.
• Ensuring optimal reaction conditions is key to achieving a high-purity product.

Manufacturers ensure adherence to stringent quality control measures throughout the production process to ensure the consistency and purity of the aluminum chloride hexahydrate produced.

Regulatory Status and Guidelines

Aluminum chloride hexahydrate is subject to various regulations and guidelines, which are determined by its application and the geographic region where it is used. It is commonly found in antiperspirant products, as well as in other industrial applications.

United States

• Food and Drug Administration (FDA): It is regulated as an over-the-counter (OTC) drug when used in antiperspirants.
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Governs the use in industrial and water treatment processes.

European Union

• European Chemicals Agency (ECHA): Included in the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation.
• Cosmetic Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009: Regulates its use in cosmetic products within the EU.

Safety Guidelines

• Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS): Provides handling, storage, and emergency measures.
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): Establishes permissible exposure limits in the workplace.

Global Harmonization System (GHS): Ensures standardized classification and labeling of chemicals worldwide.

Note: Regulations evolve, so it is critical for manufacturers and consumers to stay informed about current guidelines in their respective regions.