What are the Applications of Lithium Chloride?

Posted by scottsmith01 on March 20th, 2020

Lithium Chloride is a chemical compound that is made by mixing lithium hydroxide, lithium oxide or lithium carbonate with hydrochloric acid. The chemical formula for lithium chloride is LiCl. The compound is white, solid, hygroscopic and soluble in water, alcohol, and ether. The chemical is available in two forms: hydrous (LiCl.H₂O) and anhydrous (LiCl). Here are the top applications of lithium chloride:

1.        Lithium Production

Lithium metal is produced by electrolysis of lithium chloride. A molten mixture of lithium and potassium chlorides is used during the process. This is because pure lithium chloride has a very high melting point (610° C or 1130° F) whereas the mixture has a relatively low melting point (400-420° C or 750-790° F.) The lower melting point allows for more controlled operation.

2.        Pyrotechnics

Lithium chloride, or any water-soluble lithium-based salt, burns red when lit. This is why lithium chloride is used as a red dye in pyrotechnic displays. By mixing ionic salts including lithium chloride with flammable liquids, you can create special pyrotechnic displays.

3.        Manufacturing

Lithium chloride is used in the manufacturing of a range of automotive parts. The compound is also used in the manufacturing of furniture including chairs and tables, and more general furniture such as mattresses, patio furniture, etc.

4.        Desiccants

Liquid lithium chloride can reduce humidity levels in the surrounding air by as much as 15 percent. The desiccant is actually a mixture of lithium chloride and calcium chloride. This creates a substance that is cheaper than lithium chloride yet more stable than calcium chloride. The desiccant also cools air quickly because the chemical can hold an enormous amount of water.

5.        Other Applications

The human body also contains approximately 7 milligrams of lithium at any given time. Lithium chloride is used in the manufacturing of antimanic drug. Antimanic drug is used to treat bipolar disorders or mania associated with other affective disorders.

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