Sodium Hexafluoroaluminate (Cryolite), commonly known as sodium cryolite, is an inorganic compound primarily used in the aluminum production industry. It is a salt composed of sodium (Na), aluminum (Al), and fluorine (F).
Formula: Na₃AlF₆
Molecular Weight: 209.94 g/mol
Appearance: Sodium hexafluoroaluminate is a white, crystalline solid, and it may appear as powder or larger crystals depending on its form.
Density: Approximately 2.95 g/cm³.
Solubility: It is soluble in water and can dissociate into sodium ions (Na⁺) and hexafluoroaluminate ions (AlF₆³⁻). Its solubility is increased in the presence of certain other compounds, such as alkali fluorides.
Melting Point: The melting point of sodium hexafluoroaluminate is relatively high, around 1000°C (1832°F).
Structure: Sodium Hexafluoroaluminate (Cryolite) has a crystalline structure in which aluminum is centrally coordinated by six fluorine atoms, forming an octahedral arrangement. The sodium ions (Na⁺) balance the negative charge of the AlF₆³⁻ complex.
Aluminum Production: The primary use of sodium hexafluoroaluminate is in the aluminum extraction process. It acts as a fluxing agent in the Hall-Héroult process, where it helps to lower the temperature at which aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) melts, improving the efficiency of the process.
Glass Manufacturing: It is also used in the manufacture of certain types of glass, especially in the production of low-melting point glass used in specialty applications such as in enamel and ceramic glazing.
Catalysis: Cryolite can be used in certain catalytic processes, particularly in organic chemistry for the preparation of fluoro-organic compounds.
Insecticides and Herbicides: Historically, sodium hexafluoroaluminate has been used as an ingredient in insecticides and herbicides, though its use in these applications has been phased out in many areas due to environmental concerns and toxicity.
Handling: Cryolite should be handled with care, as it can react with water and release hydrogen fluoride gas, which is highly toxic. Protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and respiratory protection should be worn when handling the compound.
Storage: Store Cryolite in a cool, dry area in tightly sealed containers, away from moisture and incompatible materials, such as water or acids. It should be stored in a well-ventilated area to prevent the accumulation of toxic gases.
VI HALBLEITERMATERIAL GmbH (VIMATERIAL) employs a stringent quality assurance system to ensure the reliability of our product quality. Strict quality control is implemented throughout the entire production chain, and for defective products, we strictly enforce the principle of rework and redo. Each batch is released only after passing detailed specification tests.
Every batch of our materials is independently tested, and, if necessary, we send samples to certified companies for testing. We provide these documents and analysis certificates with the shipment to certify that our products meet the required standards.
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