Lithium Tetrachloroaurate(III) HydrateCAS #: 3145-91-3

Synonyms 

Lithium tetrachloroaurate(1-) hydrate (1:1:1)

Compound Formula: H2LiAuCl4O 

Molecular Weight: 363.73 

Appearance: Solid 

Melting Point: N/A 

Boiling Point: N/A 

Density: N/A 

Solubility in H2O: N/A 

Exact Mass: N/A 

Monoisotopic Mass: 361.868469 

Charge: N/A

Product Introduction: Cesium Tetrafluoroborate (CsBF₄, CAS #: 3145-91-3)

Cesium tetrafluoroborate, with the chemical formula CsBF₄ and CAS number 3145-91-3, is a specialized inorganic salt recognized for its unique combination of thermal stability, ionic properties, and chemical inertness. This colorless crystalline solid, belonging to the alkali metal tetrafluoroborate family, finds applications in advanced research, high-temperature industrial processes, and specialty materials science. Its structure—featuring a large cesium cation (Cs⁺) paired with a tetrahedral BF₄⁻ anion—endows it with distinct characteristics that make it valuable in niche technological and scientific contexts.

Chemical & Physical Properties

CsBF₄ exhibits key properties that underpin its specialized utility:

Solubility: Sparingly soluble in water (approximately 0.8 g/100 mL at 20°C) but more soluble in polar organic solvents like acetonitrile and dimethylformamide (DMF), allowing controlled dissolution for targeted applications.

Ionic Conductivity: Demonstrates low to moderate ionic conductivity in solution (typically 0.3–1.5 mS/cm in aqueous or organic mixtures), suitable for applications requiring regulated ion transport.

Melting Point: Approximately 590°C, with decomposition occurring above 650°C, providing exceptional thermal stability for high-temperature processes.

Density: Around 4.2 g/cm³, reflecting the high atomic mass of cesium and contributing to its dense crystalline structure.

Hygroscopicity: Slightly hygroscopic, absorbing minimal moisture under normal conditions, which helps maintain its physical integrity and reduces clumping.

Key Applications

Cesium tetrafluoroborate (CAS 3145-91-3) is employed in specialized fields, leveraging its unique properties:

Research and Development: Used as a source of cesium ions in electrochemical studies, particularly in the development of cesium-ion batteries and other alkali metal-based energy storage systems. Its stability makes it a reliable reagent for testing novel electrode materials and electrolyte formulations.

Optics and Specialty Glass: Added to high-performance glass and ceramic formulations to modify refractive indices, enhance thermal resistance, and improve mechanical strength. It is used in precision optical components, laser systems, and radiation-shielding glass.

High-Temperature Processes: Acts as a flux in ceramic sintering and metal alloy production, particularly for refractory materials. Its high melting point and chemical inertness prevent unwanted reactions, ensuring uniform material properties.

Analytical Chemistry: Serves as a standard in atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for quantifying cesium in environmental, geological, and industrial samples. Its high purity ensures accurate calibration.

Nuclear Technology: Investigated for use in molten salt reactors and nuclear waste management, leveraging cesium’s unique nuclear properties and the compound’s thermal stability under extreme conditions.

Advantages & Limitations

CsBF₄ offers specific benefits for niche applications, alongside considerations for its use:

Thermal Stability: Exceptional resistance to high temperatures makes it suitable for processes involving prolonged heat exposure, such as ceramic sintering and nuclear-related applications.

Ionic Purity: High-purity grades (up to 99.99%) are available, ensuring minimal interference in analytical and research applications where trace impurities could compromise results.

Chemical Inertness: Resists hydrolysis under normal conditions, reducing the formation of corrosive byproducts (e.g., HF) compared to less stable fluorinated salts, enhancing safety in handling and storage.

Limitations: Limited solubility in common solvents restricts its use in high-conductivity electrolyte formulations. Its relatively high cost, due to the scarcity of cesium, also limits large-scale industrial applications.

Synthesis & Quality Control

CsBF₄ is synthesized through controlled chemical reactions to ensure purity:

Neutralization: Cesium hydroxide (CsOH) or cesium carbonate (Cs₂CO₃) reacts with tetrafluoroboric acid (HBF₄) in aqueous solution, forming CsBF₄ and water as a byproduct.

Purification: The resulting precipitate is filtered, washed with distilled water to remove soluble impurities, and dried under vacuum. Recrystallization from hot water or organic solvents (e.g., acetonitrile) further enhances purity.

Quality control includes ion chromatography to detect anionic impurities (e.g., chloride, sulfate), inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectroscopy for metal impurity analysis, and Karl Fischer titration to ensure moisture content is below 0.1%. High-purity grades undergo additional purification steps, such as zone melting, to achieve 99.99% purity.

Safety & Handling

Proper handling of CsBF₄ is essential due to its chemical properties:

Storage: Keep in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry environment to minimize moisture absorption. Avoid contact with strong acids, which can release toxic HF gas.

Toxicity: May cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation. Inhalation of dust or ingestion can lead to fluoride poisoning, with symptoms including gastrointestinal distress and respiratory issues. Wear chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, and a respirator in poorly ventilated areas.

Reactivity: Non-flammable but reacts with strong acids to produce HF. Avoid contact with reducing agents and combustible materials to prevent adverse reactions.

Disposal: Dispose of waste in accordance with local regulations for fluoride and cesium-containing compounds, ensuring proper containment to prevent environmental contamination.

Refer to the product’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for detailed safety protocols.

Packaging & Availability

CsBF₄ is available in forms tailored to specialized applications:

Crystalline Powder: Packaged in moisture-resistant vials (1g–100g) for laboratory use and sealed drums (1kg–10kg) for industrial research, with inert gas purging to maintain purity.

High-Purity Grades: 99.99% pure CsBF₄ is available for analytical and advanced research applications, packaged in argon-filled containers to prevent contamination.

Bulk quantities and custom packaging can be requested for specific research or industrial needs. Our product meets stringent quality standards for consistency in analytical, optical, and energy storage research.

For technical specifications, pricing, or sample requests, contact our specialized sales team, which focuses on rare inorganic salts for advanced applications.

Health & Safety Information 

Signal Word: Warning 

Hazard Statements: H315-H319-H335 

Hazard Codes: Xi 

Precautionary Statements: P261-P280-P305+P351+P338-P304+P340-P405-P501a 

Flash Point: Not applicable 

Risk Codes: 36/37/38 

Safety Statements: 26-36 

RTECS Number: N/A 

Transport Information: NONH 

WGK Germany: 3

Chemical Identifiers

 Linear Formula: LiAuCl4• xH2O 

Pubchem CID: N/A 

MDL Number: MFCD00798533 

EC No.: N/A 

IUPAC Name: N/A 

Beilstein/Reaxys No.: N/A 

SMILES: [Li+].O.Cl[Au-](Cl)(Cl)Cl

InchI Identifier: InChI=1S/Au.4ClH.Li.H2O/h;4*1H;;1H2/q+3;;;;;+1;/p-4

InchI Key: WAHSZMWQZAVXGV-UHFFFAOYSA-J

Packing of Standard Packing: 

Typical bulk packaging includes palletized plastic 5 gallon/25 kg. pails, fiber and steel drums to 1 ton super sacks in full container (FCL) or truck load (T/L) quantities. Research and sample quantities and hygroscopic, oxidizing or other air sensitive materials may be packaged under argon or vacuum. Solutions are packaged in polypropylene, plastic or glass jars up to palletized 735 gallon liquid totes Special package is available on request.