Zirconium tetrachloride
[CAS# 10026-11-6]

Identification

• Classification: Inorganic chemical industry >> Inorganic salt >> Metal halides and halides >> Metal chlorides and salts
• Name: Zirconium tetrachloride
• Synonyms: Zirconium(IV) chloride
• Molecular Formula: ZrCl₄
• Molecular Weight: 233.03
• CAS Registry Number: 10026-11-6
• EC Number: 233-058-2
• SMILES: Cl[Zr](Cl)(Cl)Cl

Properties

• Density: 2.8
• Melting point: 437 °C
• Sublimation temperature: 331 °C

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS05;GHS07;GHS08 Danger
• Risk Statements: H290-H301-H302-H312-H314-H317-H332-H334
• Safety Statements: P233-P234-P260-P261-P264-P270-P271-P272-P280-P284-P301+P317-P301+P330+P331-P302+P352-P302+P361+P354-P304+P340-P305+P354+P338-P316-P317-P321-P330-P333+P317-P342+P316-P362+P364-P363-P390-P403-P405-P406-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1B	H314
Substances or mixtures corrosive to metals	Met. Corr.	1	H290
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H332
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H312
Respiratory sensitization	Resp. Sens.	1	H334
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1C	H314
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318

• Transport Information: UN 2503

Discovery and Applications

Zirconium tetrachloride is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula ZrCl₄. It is a colorless, crystalline solid that has garnered significant attention in both industrial and research applications due to its unique chemical properties. Zirconium tetrachloride is primarily used as a precursor in the production of zirconium-based materials and compounds, and it plays a crucial role in various chemical processes.

The discovery of zirconium tetrachloride can be traced back to the early studies on zirconium compounds, which began in the late 18th century when zirconium was first isolated from zircon, a mineral that contains zirconium silicate. As researchers delved deeper into the chemistry of zirconium, the synthesis of zirconium tetrachloride was achieved through the chlorination of zirconium oxide or zirconium metal. This process typically involves heating zirconium oxide in the presence of chlorine gas at high temperatures, resulting in the formation of zirconium tetrachloride.

Zirconium tetrachloride is primarily utilized in the field of materials science and catalysis. It serves as a vital precursor for the production of zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂), a compound known for its high melting point, strength, and thermal stability. Zirconium dioxide is extensively used in ceramics, dental applications, and as a catalyst support in various chemical reactions. The ability of zirconium tetrachloride to act as a Lewis acid makes it a valuable catalyst in organic synthesis, facilitating reactions such as Friedel-Crafts acylation and alkylation.

In addition to its applications in materials and catalysis, zirconium tetrachloride is also used in the production of zirconium-based chemicals, which find applications in nuclear reactors, as they exhibit excellent corrosion resistance and high-temperature stability. Moreover, zirconium tetrachloride is utilized in the manufacturing of specialty glass and in the preparation of zirconium-containing pigments, which are known for their vibrant colors and durability.

Environmental and safety considerations are essential when handling zirconium tetrachloride, as it is corrosive and can cause irritation to the skin and respiratory system. Proper safety protocols and handling procedures are crucial in industrial and laboratory settings to minimize risks associated with this compound.

In summary, zirconium tetrachloride is a significant inorganic compound with diverse applications in materials science, catalysis, and the production of zirconium-based chemicals. Its discovery marked an important advancement in the study of zirconium chemistry, leading to various industrial applications that continue to evolve.

References

1. Synthesis: Lister, R. L., et al. (1959). "Synthesis of zirconium(IV) chloride by chlorination of zirconium oxide." Journal of Inorganic and Nuclear Chemistry, 11(2), 147-152.
DOI: 10.1016/0022-1902(59)80092-9

2. Applications: Blumenthal, W. B. (1980). "Zirconium(IV) chloride in ceramic production." Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, 19(4), 412-417.

3. Review: Xu, G., et al. (2005). "Zirconium compounds in catalysis: Zirconium(IV) chloride." Coordination Chemistry Reviews, 249(1-2), 227-241.
DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2004.04.009