Lithium Chloride (LiCl) is an inorganic lithium salt composed of lithium and chlorine. It appears as a white, crystalline, highly hygroscopic compound that readily absorbs moisture from the atmosphere.
Due to its exceptional solubility, ionic conductivity, and chemical stability, lithium chloride plays a critical role in lithium metallurgy, chemical synthesis, battery-related processes, desiccant systems, metallurgy, and specialty industrial applications.
Composition & Physical Properties
| Property | Value / Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | LiCl |
| Molar Mass | ~42.39 g/mol |
| Crystal Structure | Cubic ionic lattice |
| Appearance | White crystalline solid or powder |
| Density | ~2.068 g/cm³ (25 °C) |
| Melting Point | ~605 °C |
| Boiling Point | ~1380–1382 °C |
| Solubility | Highly soluble in water & polar solvents |
| Hygroscopicity | Strongly deliquescent |
Lithium chloride readily forms hydrates such as LiCl·H₂O, LiCl·3H₂O, and LiCl·5H₂O, which has important implications for storage, drying, and handling.
Chemical & Electrochemical Behavior
• Strongly ionic compound with high lattice energy
• Dissociates completely into Li⁺ and Cl⁻ ions in aqueous or molten states
• Exhibits excellent ionic conductivity in molten salt form
• Stable up to its melting point without decomposition
Molten lithium chloride, often used in a LiCl–KCl eutectic, is a critical medium for the electrolytic production of metallic lithium.
Refining & Processing Properties
Production Methods:
• Reaction of lithium carbonate or lithium hydroxide with hydrochloric acid
• Controlled evaporation and crystallization
• Optional dehydration to obtain anhydrous LiCl
Chemical Reaction Example:
Li₂CO₃ + 2HCl → 2LiCl + CO₂ + H₂O
Purification:
• Fractional crystallization and drying
• Grades range from technical (~98.5%) to high-purity specialty grades
Available Commercial Forms
| Form | Features |
|---|---|
| Anhydrous LiCl | Low moisture, electrolysis & synthesis use |
| Hydrated LiCl | Easier handling, requires drying |
| LiCl Solutions (40–50%) | Heat transfer & dehumidification |
Applications of Lithium Chloride
| Sector | Uses |
|---|---|
| Lithium Metallurgy | Electrolyte for lithium metal production |
| Desiccant Systems | Humidity control & air drying |
| Metallurgy | Brazing & welding fluxes |
| Chemical Synthesis | Catalyst & reaction additive |
| Energy & Research | Molten salt electrolytes |
| Specialty Uses | Flame coloration, biochemical research |
Key Characteristics
✔ Extremely high solubility
✔ Strong hygroscopic and desiccant behavior
✔ Excellent ionic conductivity in molten form
✔ Thermally stable ionic compound
✔ Highly versatile chemical intermediate
Advantages of Lithium Chloride
✔ Critical intermediate in lithium extraction and metallurgy
✔ Versatile across chemical, metallurgical, and HVAC industries
✔ Enables high-temperature electrochemical processes
✔ Effective moisture capture and control
✔ Broad industrial and research relevance
Why Choose Lithium Chloride
Lithium chloride occupies a unique position in the lithium value chain. Its role as an electrolytic medium for lithium metal production, combined with its powerful hygroscopic and chemical properties, makes it indispensable in both traditional metallurgy and advanced electrochemical systems. From humidity control to molten salt electrolysis, LiCl remains a strategically important lithium compound across multiple high-value industries.