Lithium Tetrachlorocuprate SolutionCAS #: 15489-27-7

Synonyms

 Lithium Tetrachlorocuprate; Dilithium tetrachlorocuprate(2-); Copper(2+) lithium chloride (1:2:4); copper dilithium tetrachloride; Cuprate(2-), tetrachloro-, dilithium, (SP-4-1)-

Compound Formula: Li2CuCl4 

Molecular Weight: 219.24 

Appearance: Orange liquid 

Melting Point: N/A 

Boiling Point: N/A 

Density: 0.91 

Solubility in H2O: N/A 

Exact Mass: 218.834067 

Monoisotopic Mass: 216.837017

Product Introduction: Rubidium Tetrafluoroborate (RbBF₄, CAS #: 15489-27-7)

Rubidium tetrafluoroborate, with the chemical formula RbBF₄ and CAS number 15489-27-7, is a specialized inorganic salt known for its unique electrochemical and thermal properties. This colorless crystalline solid, part of the alkali metal tetrafluoroborate family, finds applications in advanced research, analytical chemistry, and high-temperature industrial processes. Its tetrahedral BF₄⁻ anion structure imparts chemical stability, while the rubidium cation (Rb⁺) contributes to specific ionic characteristics, making it valuable in niche technological and scientific contexts.

Chemical & Physical Properties

RbBF₄ exhibits distinct properties that underpin its specialized utility:

Solubility: Moderately soluble in water (approximately 1.1 g/100 mL at 20°C) and more soluble in polar organic solvents like acetonitrile and methanol, allowing controlled dissolution for targeted applications.

Ionic Conductivity: Demonstrates low to moderate ionic conductivity in aqueous solutions (typically 0.5–2 mS/cm at room temperature), suitable for applications requiring regulated ion transport.

Melting Point: Approximately 675°C, with decomposition occurring above 700°C, providing exceptional thermal stability for high-temperature processes.

Density: Around 3.5 g/cm³, reflecting the heavy atomic mass of rubidium and contributing to its compact crystalline structure.

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

Key Applications

Rubidium tetrafluoroborate (CAS 15489-27-7) is employed in specialized fields, leveraging its unique properties:

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

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

Optics and Lasers: Added to specialty glass formulations to modify refractive indices and enhance thermal resistance, used in high-precision optical components and laser systems.

High-Temperature Processes: Acts as a flux in ceramic and metal alloy production, particularly in applications involving refractory materials, where its high melting point and chemical inertness prevent unwanted reactions.

Nuclear Medicine: Investigated as a precursor in the synthesis of rubidium-based radiopharmaceuticals, leveraging rubidium’s similarity to potassium in biological systems for imaging studies.

Advantages & Limitations

RbBF₄ 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 alloy casting.

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

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

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

Synthesis & Quality Control

RbBF₄ is synthesized through controlled chemical reactions to ensure purity:

Neutralization: Rubidium hydroxide (RbOH) or rubidium carbonate (Rb₂CO₃) reacts with tetrafluoroboric acid (HBF₄) in aqueous solution, forming RbBF₄ 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 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 to achieve 99.99% purity.

Safety & Handling

Proper handling of RbBF₄ 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 rubidium-containing compounds, ensuring proper containment to prevent environmental contamination.

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

Packaging & Availability

RbBF₄ 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 RbBF₄ 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: Danger 

Hazard Statements: H225-H351-H315-H319-H335 

Hazard Codes: F,Xi Risk Codes: 11-19-36/37 

Safety Statements: 16-23-26-33-60 

RTECS Number: N/A 

Transport Information: UN 1993 3/PG 2 

WGK Germany: 2

Chemical Identifiers

 Linear Formula: Li2CuCl4 

Pubchem CID: 193501 

MDL Number: MFCD00011081 

EC No.: 203-726-8 

IUPAC Name: copper; dilithium; tetrachloride 

Beilstein/Reaxys No.: N/A 

SMILES: [Li+].[Li+].[Cl-].[Cl-].[Cl-].[Cl-].[Cu+2] 

InchI Identifier: InChI=1S/4ClH.Cu.2Li/h4*1H;;;/q;;;;+2;2*+1/p-4 

InchI Key: HCJWWBBBSCXJMS-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.