Cryolite
What is Cryolite?
Cryolite (CAS 15096-52-3), also sold under the trade name Cryocide, is a synthetic sodium aluminum fluoride mineral used as a flux and electrolyte medium in industrial processing.
Where is Cryolite used?
- Aluminum smelting: molten bath electrolyte in Hall-Héroult cells, dissolving alumina at high temperatures for electrochemical reduction into metal
- Agrochemicals: registered pesticide active ingredient for control of chewing insects on crops
- Abrasives: filler and grinding aid in resin-bonded grinding wheels and coated abrasives
- Pulp and paper: opacifying agent and filler that improves sheet brightness and printability
- It is produced commercially to replace depleted natural mineral deposits.
Good to know: Pesticide-grade material is offered in select markets where regulatory approvals are maintained.
Commercial specifications
- Fine white powder in bulk, supersacks, and bagged formats
- Purity specifications typically aligned to industry standards
Other Names (Synonyms)
Trisodium hexafluoroaluminate|Cryolite (Na3(AlF6))|Cryocide|Kryocide|Kryolith|ICE Spar|Cryolite (AlNa3F6)|Sodium aluminum fluoride