Aluminum Selenide

Aluminum Selenide (Al₂Se₃) is an inorganic compound composed of aluminum and selenium. It is primarily used in research, with potential applications in semiconductor technology due to its properties as a wide bandgap semiconductor. However, Al₂Se₃ is quite reactive, especially in the presence of moisture, which limits its practical use and requires careful handling.

Physical Properties:

Chemical formula：Al2Se3

CAS#:1302-82-5

Molar mass：290.84 g/mol

Appearance：yellow to brown powder

Odor：odorless

Density： 3.437 g/cm3

Melting point：947 °C (1,737 °F; 1,220 K)

Solubility in water：decomposes

Crystal structure：Monoclinic, mS20

Application:

Semiconductor Research: Due to its wide bandgap, Aluminum Selenide (Al₂Se₃) is studied as a semiconductor material in electronic and optical research. However, it is less common in commercial applications compared to more stable selenides.

Specialized Optoelectronic Applications: Al₂Se₃’s properties make it of interest in research for certain optoelectronic devices, though practical application is limited due to its reactivity.

Handling and Safety:

Moisture Sensitivity: Aluminum Selenide (Al₂Se₃) should be handled in a dry, inert atmosphere, such as under argon or nitrogen, to prevent hydrolysis.

Toxicity: Hydrolysis of Aluminum Selenide (Al₂Se₃) produces hydrogen selenide (H₂Se), a toxic and foul-smelling gas. Proper ventilation and protective equipment are necessary to avoid inhalation or exposure.

Protective Equipment: Handling Al₂Se₃ requires gloves, eye protection, and, ideally, a fume hood to prevent exposure to H₂Se gas and other decomposition products.

Storage Requirements:

Airtight Containers: To prevent moisture exposure, Al₂Se₃ should be stored in airtight containers.

Inert Atmosphere Storage: For long-term stability, storage in an inert atmosphere, such as nitrogen or argon, is recommended.