Synthesizing Anhydrous Chloride Salts through Al Foil Reaction

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SUMMARY

The synthesis of anhydrous chloride salts, specifically aluminum chloride (AlCl3), can be effectively achieved by passing a dry stream of hydrogen chloride (HCl) gas over heated aluminum foil. The proposed method involves generating HCl from concentrated sulfuric acid (H2SO4) and calcium chloride (CaCl2) for drying, followed by heating aluminum foil in a flask on a hot plate. The reaction should be controlled to prevent rapid conversion of aluminum to AlCl3, and condensation of the vapor into a cold flask is necessary for collection. This method is validated by historical procedures involving aluminum turnings and controlled heating.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of aluminum chloride synthesis
  • Knowledge of gas generation techniques using H2SO4
  • Familiarity with fume hood safety protocols
  • Experience with sublimation and purification processes
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties and handling of aluminum chloride (AlCl3)
  • Learn about gas flow control in chemical reactions
  • Study sublimation techniques for purifying chemical products
  • Investigate safety measures for working with HCl gas
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Chemists, laboratory technicians, and students interested in inorganic synthesis and the production of metal halides will benefit from this discussion.

Benzeen
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Hi, first post!
OK my question is regarding the synthesis of metal halides, specifically those of Chlorine.
If i pass a dry stream of HCl(g) over a bed of heated Al foil will this be an acceptable route to the anhydrous salt? I am thinking of generating the hydrogen chloride from conc H2SO4 dripped into HCl acid, passing the gas through CaCl2, then into a large erlynmeyer flask (on a hot plate) containing Al foil with a second tube leading the excess gas out under a fume hood. I want the foil to be heated hot enough to react with the HCl gas but not so hot that the whole thing will react in 2 seconds (like the videos on the net)
Would my proposed method work? will the aluminium slowly convert to the salt, or will i need to lead the AlCl3 vapour into another cold flask in order for it to condense?
Any help appreciated :D
 
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Yeah, this sounds more or less like it'll work although I've never tried it. I'd been interesting in hearing how it works if you attempt this experiment.

This might be of use to you. It's out of my library:

Ten grams of Al turnings are used for the retort
or flask which is swept out thoroughly with dry hydrogen
chloride. The receiving flask of the apparatus is fitted with
an outlet tube connected to a calcium chloride drying tube
to permit the escape of excess gas. The inlet tube for the
hydrogen chloride should lead well into the reaction flask,
and terminate about 2-3 inches from the surface of the
metal. The vessel is heated gently in a steady stream of gas
until white vapors start to form. The gas flow is then in-
creased somewhat and the flame raised slightly until all the
metal has reacted. After cooling, the gas inlet tube is quickly
removed and replaced by a waxed stopper; the chloride is
then sublimed into the receiver by means of a small flame,
and it may be further purified by resublimation in dry nitrogen. The product is white and extremely hygroscopic; b.p.
180°C.
 
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