Aluminum Nitrate: Definition, Formula,
Preparation, and Properties
When we use aluminum foil to wrap our food or drink from an aluminum can, we don’t usually think about the chemical properties of the aluminum. However, in the world of chemistry, aluminum is an important metal that forms various compounds, including aluminum nitrate.
In this article, we will explore the definition, formula, preparation, and properties of aluminum nitrate, one of the key compounds of aluminum.Aluminum nitrate is a white, crystalline, solid salt that is soluble in water. Its molecular formula is Al(NO3)3, which means it contains one aluminum cation (Al3+) and three nitrate anions (NO3-).
Aluminum nitrate is commonly available in two forms: the anhydrous form (Al(NO3)3) and the nonahydrate form (Al(NO3)39H2O).
Chemical Properties
Aluminum nitrate is a salt that is composed of aluminum and nitric acid. It is a white, crystalline solid powder that has a density of 1.72 g/cm3.
The melting point of aluminum nitrate is 73.7 (164.7 ), and its boiling point is 135 (275 ). In its hydrated form, aluminum nitrate has a molar mass of 375.13 g/mol.
When it is heated, aluminum nitrate is decomposed into aluminum oxide (Al2O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and oxygen (O2).
Preparation
Aluminum nitrate can be prepared by adding nitric acid to aluminum trichloride or aluminum sulfate. Another method of preparation is to mix lead nitrate with aluminum sulfate, which results in the formation of insoluble lead sulfate and soluble aluminum nitrate.
After filtering the mixture, the aluminum nitrate solution can be obtained by evaporation.
Formula and Molecular Structure
The molecular formula of aluminum nitrate is Al(NO3)3. This means that one molecule of aluminum nitrate contains one aluminum atom and three nitrate ions, which include one nitrogen atom and three oxygen atoms.
In its nonahydrate form, aluminum nitrate has nine water molecules that are chemically bonded to each Al(NO3)3 molecule. The molecular diagram of aluminum nitrate shows a central aluminum atom, surrounded by three nitrate ions, which are arranged in a planar triangular fashion.
The aluminum atom is positively charged, while each nitrate ion carries a negative charge. The aluminum atom and nitrate ions are held together by ionic bonds, which are due to the attraction between the opposite charges.
Uses and Applications
Aluminum nitrate finds its application in a variety of industries like pharma, cosmetic, agriculture, and food industries. In the pharma industry, it is used as a coagulant to separate impurities from proteins.
In cosmetic industries, it is used to slow the oil seeping from the skin. In agriculture, aluminum nitrate is used as fertilizer, as it provides necessary nutrients to crops like nitrogen and potassium.
The food industry uses aluminum nitrate to help food retain its color, texture, and flavor, as well as to extend its shelf life. It is also used in the synthesis of other aluminum compounds.
Conclusion
Aluminum nitrate is an important compound of aluminum that has various applications in industries like agriculture, pharma, cosmetic, and food. Its chemical properties, preparation methods, and molecular formula are all important aspects to understand to appreciate its versatility and usefulness.
Its white, crystalline, solid powdery form with a melting point of 73.7 makes it an ideal compound for various applications. Synonyms of Aluminum Nitrate: Chemical Names
Aluminum nitrate, also known as aluminum trinitrate, is a chemical compound that has various synonyms based on its different forms and properties.
The following are some of the synonyms of aluminum nitrate:
– Aluminum Nitrate nonahydrate: This form of aluminum nitrate has nine water molecules attached to each molecule of Al(NO3)3, giving it a molar mass of 375.13 g/mol. Its chemical formula is Al(NO3)3 9H2O.
– Aluminum Trinitrate nonahydrate: This is another name for aluminum nitrate nonahydrate. – 7784-27-2: This is the Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) number for aluminum nitrate nonahydrate, which is used to identify the compound in chemical databases.
– Aluminum (III) Nitrate, Nonahydrate (1:3:9): This is the systematic name for aluminum nitrate nonahydrate based on the chemical nomenclature rules. – Nitric acid, Aluminum salt: aluminum nitrate is also known as a salt compound of nitric acid.
Physical Properties of Aluminum Nitrate
Aluminum nitrate has the following physical properties:
Molar Mass
The molar mass of aluminum nitrate depends on its form. The anhydrous form has a molar mass of 213.998 g/mol, while the nonahydrate form has a molar mass of 375.13 g/mol.
Density
The density of aluminum nitrate depends on its form and concentration. The anhydrous form has a density of 1.398 g/cm3, while the nonahydrate form has a density of 1.72 g/cm3.
Melting Point
The melting point of aluminum nitrate varies with its form. The anhydrous form of aluminum nitrate has a melting point of 73.67 (164.67 ), while the nonahydrate form has a melting point of 72.8 (163 ).
Boiling Point
The boiling point of aluminum nitrate also varies with its form. The anhydrous form of aluminum nitrate has a boiling point of 136 (277 ), while the nonahydrate form has a boiling point of 135 (275 ).
Solubility
Aluminum nitrate is soluble in water, methanol, ethanol, and ethylene glycol. Its solubility in water increases with temperature.
The nonahydrate form is highly soluble in water, while the anhydrous form is less soluble.
Refractive Index
The refractive index of aluminum nitrate depends on its concentration and temperature. The refractive index of the nonahydrate form of aluminum nitrate is 1.54 (nD).
Applications of Aluminum Nitrate
Aluminum nitrate has various applications in different industries. Some of the common applications of aluminum nitrate are:
Pharmaceutical Industry
Aluminum nitrate is used as a coagulant in the pharmaceutical industry to remove impurities from proteins. It is also used in making various drugs and medicines.
Cosmetics Industry
Aluminum nitrate is used in cosmetics to slow down the oil seeping from the skin and to protect it from sweating. It is also used in making different skincare products like lotions, creams, and ointments.
Agricultural Industry
Aluminum nitrate is used as a fertilizer in the agricultural industry to provide crops with essential nutrients like nitrogen and potassium. It is also used to increase plant growth and yield.
Food Industry
In the food industry, aluminum nitrate is used to maintain the color, texture, and flavor of food products. It is also used to extend the shelf life of food.
It is commonly used in pickling and preserving foods like cabbage and beets.
Synthesis of other Aluminum Compounds
Aluminum nitrate is used in the synthesis of other aluminum compounds such as aluminum oxide, aluminum hydroxide, and aluminum phosphate.
Conclusion
In this article, we have discussed the synonyms, physical properties, and applications of aluminum nitrate. We have learned that aluminum nitrate has various synonyms based on its different forms and properties.
We have also learned about the physical properties of aluminum nitrate, including its molar mass, density, melting point, boiling point, solubility, and refractive index. Furthermore, we have discussed various applications of aluminum nitrate, including its use in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, agricultural, food, and chemical industries.
Hydrolysis of Aluminum Nitrate: Chemical Reaction
Hydrolysis is a chemical reaction that involves the breaking of chemical bonds through the action of water. Aluminum nitrate undergoes hydrolysis in the presence of water, causing it to dissociate into its constituent ions.
The chemical equation for the hydrolysis of aluminum nitrate is:
Al(NO3)3 + 3H2O Al(OH)3 + 3HNO3
In this reaction, the aluminum cation (Al3+) and nitrate anions (NO3-) are separated from each other, with the aluminum atom reacting with hydroxide ions (OH-) from water to form aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)3). The nitrate anions combine with hydrogen ions (H+) from water to form nitric acid (HNO3).
The hydrolysis of aluminum nitrate is an exothermic reaction that releases heat and is strongly acidic. The presence of the acidic nitric acid can lead to corrosion and damage to metal surfaces in contact with the solution.
Aluminum Nitrate Uses
Aluminum nitrate has various industrial applications, including:
Oxidizing Agent
Aluminum nitrate is used as an oxidizing agent in various chemical reactions, including the production of explosives, dyes, and other chemicals.
Uranium Extraction
Aluminum nitrate is used in the extraction of uranium from ores. It is used as a complexing agent that helps to dissolve the uranium from the ore matrix.
Nitrating Agent
Aluminum nitrate is used as a nitrating agent in the production of explosives, dyes, and other chemicals. It can help to add nitrate groups to organic compounds.
Antiperspirants
Aluminum nitrate is used in antiperspirants to block sweat glands and reduce sweating.
Corrosion Inhibitors
Aluminum nitrate is used as a corrosion inhibitor in various industrial processes, including water treatment, oil refining, and metalworking.
Mordant
Aluminum nitrate is used as a mordant in the textile industry to help fix dyes to fabric.
Petroleum Refining
Aluminum nitrate is used in petroleum refining to remove impurities and contaminants from crude oil.
Demonstrating Reactions
Aluminum nitrate is commonly used in chemistry and science experiments to demonstrate various reaction types.
Alumina
Aluminum nitrate is used in the production of alumina, which is used in the production of ceramics, glass, and other materials.
Cathode Ray Tube
Aluminum nitrate is used in the production of cathode ray tube screens for televisions and computer monitors.
Transformer Core Laminates
Aluminum nitrate is used in the production of transformer core laminates to reduce the loss of energy due to eddy currents.
Actinide Elements
Aluminum nitrate is used to separate and purify actinide elements like plutonium and uranium.
Specific Gravity
Specific gravity is a measure of the density of a substance relative to the density of water. The specific gravity of aluminum nitrate varies with its concentration and temperature.
The specific gravity of aluminum nitrate is greater than 1 at 68.0 , which means that it is denser than water.
Flash Point
The flash point of a substance is the lowest temperature at which its vapor can ignite in air. The flash point of aluminum nitrate nonahydrate is 135 .
The anhydrous form of aluminum nitrate is a less common form, but it has a flash point of 136 .
Conclusion
In conclusion, aluminum nitrate is a versatile compound that has various applications in different industries, including pharmaceutical, cosmetic, agricultural, food, and chemical. The hydrolysis of aluminum nitrate can lead to the formation of aluminum hydroxide and nitric acid.
The uses of aluminum nitrate such as an oxidizing agent, uranium extraction, nitrating agent, antiperspirants, corrosion inhibitors, mordant, petroleum refining, demonstrating reactions, alumina, cathode ray tube, transformer core laminates, and actinide elements make it an important compound in the world of chemistry. Its specific gravity and flash point are important considerations when storing and handling the compound.
Aluminum Nitrate MSDS: Chemical Safety
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) provide important information about the safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemical substances. This section will provide a detailed overview of the chemical safety considerations associated with aluminum nitrate.
Chemical Hazards
Aluminum nitrate can pose several chemical hazards:
Explosive: Aluminum nitrate, especially in its dried or anhydrous form, can become explosive when exposed to heat, shock, or flame. It is crucial to handle and store aluminum nitrate with appropriate precautions to prevent accidents.
Strong
Oxidizing Agent: Aluminum nitrate is a strong oxidizing agent, meaning it can easily react with other substances, leading to combustion or fire hazards. It should be kept away from flammable materials, alkyl esters, phosphorus, and tin (II) chloride.
Fire Hazards: Aluminum nitrate can contribute to the intensity and spread of fires due to its oxidizing properties. It is important to store aluminum nitrate in a cool, dry place away from sources of ignition, heat, and open flames.
Toxic Oxides of Nitrogen: When aluminum nitrate decomposes or reacts with other substances, it can release toxic oxides of nitrogen, including nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and nitric oxide (NO). These gases can cause respiratory irritation and other health complications.
Adequate ventilation is necessary when working with aluminum nitrate or its solutions.
Safety Precautions
To ensure the safe handling of aluminum nitrate, the following safety precautions should be followed:
Fire
Safety Precautions: Store aluminum nitrate in an area away from flammable materials and ignition sources. Keep containers tightly closed and protected from heat and flame.
Use appropriate fire extinguishing agents, such as dry chemical or carbon dioxide, in case of a fire involving aluminum nitrate. Protective Equipment: When handling aluminum nitrate, it is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as chemical-resistant gloves, safety glasses or goggles, and a lab coat or protective clothing.
The use of a fume hood or adequate ventilation is necessary to prevent exposure to toxic fumes. Storage and Handling: Aluminum nitrate should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
It should be kept away from flammable materials, organic compounds, and sources of heat or ignition. Containers should be properly labeled and tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption and spills.
Health Complications
Exposure to aluminum nitrate can lead to various health complications:
Inhalation: Inhalation of aluminum nitrate dust or fumes can cause respiratory irritation, coughing, and shortness of breath. Prolonged or repeated exposure to high concentrations may result in bronchitis or asthma-like symptoms.
Skin Contact: Direct contact with aluminum nitrate can cause skin irritation, redness, and dermatitis. Prolonged or repeated exposure may lead to sensitization, causing allergic reactions in some individuals.
Eye Contact: Contact with aluminum nitrate can cause severe eye irritation, redness, and tearing. If contact occurs, immediate flushing with water for at least 15 minutes is required.
Ingestion: Ingesting aluminum nitrate can cause irritation of the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Ingestion of large amounts or concentrated solutions may require immediate medical attention.
First Aid Measures
In case of accidental exposure or ingestion of aluminum nitrate, the following first aid measures should be taken:
Inhalation: If respiratory symptoms occur, move the affected person to fresh air and provide oxygen if breathing is difficult. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Skin Contact: Immediately remove contaminated clothing and rinse the affected area with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. If irritation persists, seek medical attention.
Eye Contact: Rinse the eyes immediately with gently flowing water for at least 15 minutes, ensuring to remove any contact lenses if it can be done easily. Seek medical attention promptly.
Ingestion: If aluminum nitrate is swallowed, do not induce vomiting. Rinse the mouth with water and provide plenty of water to drink if the person is conscious.
Seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
Aluminum nitrate poses various chemical hazards, including its explosive nature, strong oxidizing properties, and potential release of toxic oxides of nitrogen. To ensure the safe handling, storage, and disposal of aluminum nitrate, it is essential to follow appropriate safety precautions, wear protective equipment, and store it away from flammable materials and ignition sources.
In case of exposure or ingestion, prompt first aid measures should be taken, and medical attention should be sought. In conclusion, understanding the properties, uses, and safety considerations of aluminum nitrate is crucial for anyone working with or handling this compound.
Aluminum nitrate is a versatile substance with applications in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and petroleum refining. However, it is important to be aware of its explosive and oxidizing properties, potential health complications, and necessary safety precautions.
Proper storage, handling, and disposal procedures are essential to minimize risks. Remember to always follow safety guidelines, wear appropriate protective equipment, and seek medical help if needed.
By prioritizing chemical safety and taking necessary precautions, we can ensure a safer workplace and protect both human health and the environment. FAQs:
1.
Is aluminum nitrate explosive? Yes, aluminum nitrate, especially in its anhydrous form, can become explosive when exposed to heat, shock, or flame.
2. What are the uses of aluminum nitrate?
Aluminum nitrate is used as an oxidizing agent, in uranium extraction, as a nitrating agent, antiperspirants, corrosion inhibitors, mordant, in petroleum refining, and more. 3.
What are the health hazards of aluminum nitrate exposure? Exposure to aluminum nitrate can cause respiratory irritation, skin irritation, eye irritation, and gastrointestinal irritation.
Prolonged or repeated exposure may lead to more severe health complications. 4.
What should I do in case of exposure or ingestion of aluminum nitrate? In case of exposure or ingestion, take appropriate first aid measures, such as moving to fresh air, rinsing with water, and seeking medical attention immediately.
5. How should aluminum nitrate be stored?
Aluminum nitrate should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from flammable materials and ignition sources. Containers should be tightly sealed and properly labeled.