Sodium aluminum fluoride (Na₅Al₃F₁₄), also known as chiolite, is an inorganic compound composed of sodium (Na), aluminum (Al), and fluorine (F). It is a white crystalline solid that is primarily used in aluminum production and in various industrial applications due to its unique chemical properties.
Formula: Na₅Al₃F₁₄
Molecular Weight: 209.94 g/mol
Appearance: Sodium aluminum fluoride is typically a white crystalline solid or powder, although it can sometimes appear colorless or light gray.
Solubility: It is soluble in water to some extent, though not highly soluble. It also dissolves in strong bases.
Melting Point: Around 1000°C (1832°F), which makes it suitable for high-temperature industrial processes.
Density: Approximately 2.95 g/cm³.
Hygroscopic: Sodium hexafluoroaluminate can absorb moisture from the air under certain conditions.
Aluminum Industry: The most important application of Sodium aluminum fluoride is in the extraction of aluminum from bauxite ore. Cryolite is used as a solvent in the Hall-Héroult process, where aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) is dissolved in molten cryolite to lower the melting point and make the electrolysis process more efficient.
Production of Fluorine Compounds: Sodium aluminum fluoride is used in the manufacture of aluminum fluoride (AlF₃) and other fluorine-containing compounds.
Ceramics and Glass: Sodium aluminum fluoride is used in the production of certain types of glass and ceramics, where it acts as a flux to help lower the melting temperature of the materials.
Pesticides and Insecticides: It has been used historically in agriculture for its ability to repel certain pests, though its use in this area has declined due to environmental and health concerns.
Handling: Sodium aluminum fluoride should be handled in a well-ventilated area, and protective equipment (gloves, goggles, and a respirator) should be worn to minimize exposure to dust and vapors. Avoid direct contact with skin or eyes.
Storage: Sodium aluminum fluoride should be stored in a dry place, in tightly sealed containers, away from moisture. It is also important to store it in a cool environment to prevent any unwanted chemical reactions.
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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