General 

Synonyms: Aluminium chloride, Aluminium trichloride, Aluminum chloride, Aluminum chloride - Anhydrous, Trichloroalumium
Molecular formula: Alcl3 
CAS No: 7446-70-0 
EC No: 231-208-1

 

Physical data

Appearance: Yellow to Grey solid 
Melting point: ca. 190° C (sublimes) 
Boiling point: 
Vapour density: 4.5 (air = 1) 
Vapour pressure: 1.3 mbar at 100° C 
Specific gravity: 2.44 
Flash point: 
Explosion limits: 
Autoignition temperature:

Stability 

Stable, but reacts violently with water. Prolonged storage may lead to pressure build-up - vent container periodically. Incompatible with alcohols and a variety of other materials (see complete MSDS sheet for full list).

Safety 

Corrosive. Reacts violently with water. Reacts with the humidity of air under formation of pungent smelling hydrogen chloride. 

During the handling of these products, the data and reference in the safety data sheet are to be considered.

In addition the necessary caution and good industrial hygiene while handling chemicals have to been kept.

As Anhydrous Aluminium Chloride fumes a lot on exposure to air it is environmentally objectionable.

Precautions to address environmental questions should also be considered while handling  

Risk phrases 

R34. – Causes Burns  

Safety phrases 

S7 / S8 – Keep Container Tightly Closed and dry 

S28 - After contact with skin, wash immediately with plenty of water 

S45 – In case of Accident or if you feel unwell, seek medical advice immediately. (Show label where possible)

Toxicology

Corrosive - causes burns. Extremely destructive of mucous membranes. May cause allergic reactions. Harmful if swallowed or inhaled and in contact with the skin. 

Toxicity data 

ORL-RAT LD50 3450 mg kg -1 
ORL-MUS LD50 1130 mg kg -1 
SKN-RBT LD50 > 2000 mg kg -1

Personal protection

Safety glasses, rubber gloves. Adequate ventilation.  

FIRST AID:

If anhydrous Aluminium Chloride comes in contact with the skin or clothing, do not 
wash immediately with water. Severe burns can result from the great amounts of heat produced when anhydrous Aluminium Chloride is dissolved. Wipe off the excess Aluminium Chloride first with a cloth and then wash with large amounts of water. 

If liquid Aluminium Chloride comes in contact with the skin or clothing, wash it off immediately and thoroughly with water.

In cases of splashes of liquid Aluminium Chloride in the eyes, flush immediately and thoroughly with large amounts of water and then rinse with a weak solution of sodium bicarbonate or boric acid. Consult a physician immediately.

Transport information

UN No 1726. Packing group II. Major hazard class 8.0.