Lanthanum Chloride

Lanthanum chloride (LaCl3), is an inorganic substance of rare earths with the chemical formula LaCl3. It is a white powder that is easily hygroscopic, soluble in water, and can be used to produce metallic lanthanum and petroleum catalyst raw materials. It can also be used as a material for hydrogen storage batteries. Lanthanum chloride hydrate, always Lanthanum chloride heptahydrate, crystalline granules.

Brief Description of Lanthanum chloride

Material name: Lanthanum chloride; Lanthanum chloride hydrate; Lanthanum chloride heptahydrate

Formula: LaCl3; LaCl3. xH2O; LaCl3.7H2O

CAS No.: 10099-58-8, 20211-76-1

EINECS NO.: 233-237-5

Molecular Weight: 371.28        

Density: 3.84 g/cm3, LaCl3, 25°C

Melting point: 860℃; 92°C

Bolting point: 1000°C

Appearance: Anhydrous substance is a white hygroscopic powder; Heptahydrate is a white crystalline substance (block or granular) that is easily deliquescent.

Purity/Specification (LaCl3/REO): 99.95%

Solubility: low solubility in water, easily soluble in acid.

Application:

Lanthanum chloride is used widely.

Catalyst raw materials

Used for preparing petroleum cracking catalysts to improve cracking efficiency and light oil production.

Rare earth metal smelting

As a raw material for extracting single rare earths (such as metallic lanthanum) or enriching mixed rare earth metals.

Energy materials

Used as a material for hydrogen storage batteries due to its excellent hydrogen adsorption performance and cycling stability.

Industry and Research

Precursors for synthesizing other rare earth compounds, such as organic lanthanide complexes;

Analytical reagents, magnetic materials, and chemical additives.

Specification:

FAQ
Q: How does Lanthanum Chloride work as a phosphate remover for swimming pools?
A：Lanthanum Chloride reacts rapidly with dissolved orthophosphates in water to form Lanthanum Phosphate ($LaPO_4$), an insoluble solid precipitate. By reducing phosphate levels—the primary food source for algae—to near-zero levels (below 100 ppb), it effectively prevents algae blooms without the need for heavy algaecides. It is considered the most efficient chemical solution for maintaining crystal-clear pool water.

Q: Is Lanthanum Chloride safe for fish and shrimp in reef tanks?
A: When used correctly, Lanthanum Chloride is safe for reef inhabitants. However, the resulting fine white precipitate can irritate fish gills or be ingested by filter-feeding invertebrates. To ensure safety:

• Drip Method: Add diluted solution slowly into a 10-micron filter sock.

• Skimmer Use: Ensure your protein skimmer is running to export the precipitate immediately.

• Alkalinity Check: Monitor your KH levels, as overdosing can cause a slight drop in alkalinity.

Q: What is the difference between anhydrous and heptahydrate Lanthanum Chloride?

A:The primary difference lies in the water content and concentration.

• Anhydrous ($LaCl_3$): Contains no water, offering the highest concentration of Lanthanum. It is typically used in specialized industrial applications like petroleum cracking catalysts and moisture-sensitive chemical synthesis.

• Heptahydrate ($LaCl_3·7H_2O$): The most common commercial form. It is highly soluble in water and is the preferred choice for wastewater treatment and pool maintenance due to its ease of handling and lower cost per unit of volume.