Aluminum chloride

Aluminum chloride anhydrous (CAS 7446-70-0), also known as aluminum trichloride, is a high-activity Lewis acid catalyst and inorganic salt used across chemical synthesis, water treatment, and industrial processing. Its strong electrophilic character makes it a preferred reagent wherever controlled catalytic activity or coagulation is required at scale. In petrochemical and organic synthesis, it drives Friedel-Crafts alkylation and acylation reactions.

This chemical forms the basis for producing dyes, pharmaceuticals, and specialty chemicals. Water treatment facilities use it as a coagulant to aggregate suspended solids and colloidal matter, improving clarification efficiency. It is effective in both municipal and industrial effluent systems. The textile and leather industries apply it as a preservative and mordant, fixing dyes to fiber substrates and extending material durability.

In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it functions as a catalyst intermediate in active ingredient synthesis where precise Lewis acid reactivity is required. This ensures high yields and purity in complex chemical reactions. Aluminum chloride anhydrous is supplied as a granular or lumpy crystalline solid, with powder forms available for specific process requirements. Standard commercial grades include technical grade for industrial catalysis.

Handling and packaging specifications typically account for its moisture sensitivity. Supply is provided in sealed, inert-atmosphere containers ranging from drum to bulk quantities to maintain product integrity during transport.