Lithium alumanuide

AlH4Li

lithium alumanuide

CAS16853-85-3
GHS02 Gefahrensymbol: Entzündbar – Flamme
GHS05 Gefahrensymbol: Ätzend – Ätzwirkung
Danger

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Identification

CAS Number
16853-85-3
EC Number
240-877-9
UN Number
1410
Index Number
001-002-00-4
PubChem CID
28112

Physical-chemical properties

Molecular Formula
AlH4Li
Molar Mass
38.00 g/mol
IUPAC Name
lithium alumanuide

Chemical Identifiers

InChI
InChI=1S/Al.Li.4H/q-1;+1;;;;
InChI Key
OCZDCIYGECBNKL-UHFFFAOYSA-N

Overview

Lithium alumanuide (CAS 16853-85-3) is a powerful reducing agent and hydride donor with exceptional reactivity in organic synthesis applications. This highly reactive inorganic compound, also known by its IUPAC name lithium alumanuide, represents one of the most important hydride reducing agents in modern chemistry. With the molecular formula AlH4Li and a molecular mass of 38 g/mol, lithium alumanuide belongs to the family of complex metal hydrides that have revolutionized synthetic chemistry since their discovery. The compound is characterized by its remarkable ability to donate hydride ions, making it an indispensable tool for reduction reactions in both laboratory and industrial settings. The substance exhibits significant safety considerations due to its violent reactivity with water and protic solvents, classified under Water-react. 1 hazard category. Its corrosive nature, designated as Skin Corr. 1A, requires careful handling protocols and appropriate personal protective equipment. The compound displays GHS02 and GHS05 pictograms, indicating both flammability and corrosive hazards, with ADR classification 4.3 for dangerous goods transport. Lithium alumanuide finds extensive application in pharmaceutical synthesis for reducing carbonyl compounds to alcohols, in the production of fine chemicals where selective reduction is required, and in polymer chemistry for specialized polymerization processes. Unlike simpler reducing agents such as lithium metal, lithium alumanuide offers superior selectivity and solubility in organic solvents, making it particularly valuable for complex synthetic transformations. OYSI provides lithium alumanuide to European industrial customers, ensuring consistent quality and reliable supply chain management for critical manufacturing processes requiring this essential reducing agent.

Safety & Classification

Danger
Classification:

Water-react. 1; Skin Corr. 1A

HHazard Statements (H-Statements)

Describe the nature and severity of the hazard

H260

In contact with water releases flammable gases which may ignite spontaneously.

H314

Causes severe skin burns and eye damage.

Classification according to CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. The complete list of hazard and precautionary statements can be found in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

First Aid Measures

Skin Contact

Harmful

Measures if substance contacts the skin

First Aid Actions

  • +P302IF ON SKIN:
  • +P352Wash with plenty of water.
  • +P361Take off immediately all contaminated clothing.
  • +P313Get medical advice/attention.

Related hazard statements:

Eye Contact

Harmful

Measures if substance gets into the eyes

First Aid Actions

  • +P305IF IN EYES:
  • +P351Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.
  • +P338Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
  • +P313Get medical advice/attention.

Related hazard statements:

General Measures

Emergency 112 | Poison Control: +49 30 19240 (DE), +33 1 45 42 59 59 (FR), +31 30 274 88 88 (NL)

First aid measures are based on CLP classification and associated P-statements. They do not replace the Safety Data Sheet (SDS). In case of emergency, always consult the full SDS and a physician.

Transport (ADR)

UN Number1410
ADR Class4.3
Packing GroupI
Tunnel CodeE
Proper Shipping NameLithiumaluminiumhydrid, fest
Marine PollutantNo

Frequently Asked Questions

What is lithium alumanuide?

Lithium alumanuide is a powerful reducing agent and hydride compound with the molecular formula AlH4Li and CAS number 16853-85-3. This chemical substance has a molecular weight of 38 g/mol and belongs to the class of metal hydrides. It is classified as a highly reactive material that poses significant safety risks due to its water-reactive nature and corrosive properties, requiring careful handling and storage procedures.

What are the physicochemical properties of lithium alumanuide?

Lithium alumanuide is a solid crystalline compound that appears as a white to light gray powder. It is highly reactive with water, releasing hydrogen gas upon contact with moisture. The substance is extremely hygroscopic and must be kept under inert atmosphere conditions. Its molecular weight of 38 g/mol makes it a relatively lightweight hydride compound with strong reducing capabilities.

What is lithium alumanuide used for?

Lithium alumanuide serves as a powerful reducing agent in organic synthesis and pharmaceutical manufacturing. It is primarily used for the reduction of carbonyl compounds, esters, and other functional groups in chemical reactions. The compound finds applications in research laboratories and specialized industrial processes where strong hydride reducing agents are required for specific chemical transformations and synthetic pathways.

How to handle lithium alumanuide safely?

Lithium alumanuide requires strict safety protocols due to its Water-react. 1 and Skin Corr. 1A classifications. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment including chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing. Handle only in well-ventilated areas or under inert atmosphere conditions. Avoid contact with water, moisture, and incompatible materials. Use proper fume hoods and ensure emergency equipment is readily available.

How to store lithium alumanuide correctly?

Lithium alumanuide must be stored in tightly sealed containers under inert atmosphere conditions to prevent contact with moisture and air. Store in a cool, dry location away from water sources, acids, and oxidizing agents. Use appropriate secondary containment and ensure storage areas are equipped with proper ventilation systems. Regular inspection of container integrity is essential to maintain product stability and safety.

What to do in case of contact with lithium alumanuide?

Immediate action is required in case of contact with lithium alumanuide due to its corrosive nature. For skin contact, remove contaminated clothing and flush affected area with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. For eye contact, rinse immediately with water and seek medical attention. If inhaled, move to fresh air immediately. Always consult safety data sheets and seek professional medical advice promptly.

How to dispose of lithium alumanuide appropriately?

Lithium alumanuide disposal requires specialized hazardous waste management procedures due to its reactive and corrosive properties. Never dispose of this substance through regular waste streams or pour down drains. Contact certified hazardous waste disposal companies that can handle water-reactive materials. Follow local and European waste regulations (Waste Framework Directive) and maintain proper documentation for disposal tracking and compliance purposes.

How to transport lithium alumanuide?

Lithium alumanuide is classified under ADR Class 4.3 (substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases) with Packing Group I, indicating high danger level. Transportation requires specialized packaging, proper labeling with GHS02 and GHS05 pictogramms, and compliance with dangerous goods regulations. Only authorized carriers with appropriate training and equipment should handle the transportation of this water-reactive substance.

Is lithium alumanuide subject to specific regulations?

Lithium alumanuide is subject to various European chemical regulations including REACH registration requirements and CLP classification as Water-react. 1 and Skin Corr. 1A. The substance carries the signal word 'Danger' and requires appropriate hazard communication. While not identified as SVHC, it must comply with occupational safety standards and may be subject to import/export controls depending on intended use and quantities.

Where to buy lithium alumanuide in Europe?

Lithium alumanuide is available through OYSI, a specialized European distributor of technical chemicals. OYSI provides this water-reactive compound to qualified industrial users, research institutions, and chemical manufacturers across Europe. As a professional chemical distributor, OYSI ensures proper packaging, documentation, and regulatory compliance for lithium alumanuide supply while maintaining high safety and quality standards for hazardous chemical distribution.

Data Sources

Classification per CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. Data from ECHA and PubChem.