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Send EmailScandium Chloride Hexahydrate, Scandium Trichloride Hexahydrate, 20662-14-0
SCANDIUM CHLORIDE HEXAHYDRATE (SCCl₃·6H₂O)
SCANDIUM CHLORIDE HEXAHYDRATE / SCANDIUM TRICHLORIDE HEXAHYDRATE
1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Scandium Chloride Hexahydrate |
| Chemical Name | Scandium(III) Chloride Hexahydrate, Scandium Trichloride Hexahydrate |
| Other Names | ScCl₃·6H₂O |
| CAS Number | 20662-14-0 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | 239-854-3 (anhydrous form) |
| Chemical Formula | ScCl₃·6H₂O |
| Molecular Weight | 266.31 g/mol |
| Appearance | White crystalline, hygroscopic |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Physical State (20°C) | Solid (crystalline) |
2. CHEMICAL STRUCTURE
2.1. Molecular Structure
Scandium chloride hexahydrate is the hydrated form of the chloride salt of the rare earth element scandium. Scandium ions (Sc³⁺) and chloride ions (Cl⁻) are present in a 1:3 ratio. Each scandium chloride unit contains six molecules of water of hydration. Due to its hygroscopic nature, it is sensitive to degradation in humid environments. It exhibits high solubility in water.
Structural Features:
SCANDIUM CHLORIDE HEXAHYDRATE [ScCl₃·6H₂O]
|
Sc³⁺ - Cl⁻ Ionic Bonds + 6H₂O
|
+----------------+----------------+
| | |
White Crystalline High Solubility Highly
in Water Hygroscopic
2.2. Structural Properties
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Crystal Structure | Monoclinic |
| Chemical Formula | ScCl₃·6H₂O |
| Molecular Weight | 266.31 g/mol |
| Density | ~2.12 g/cm³ |
| Appearance | White crystalline |
| Melting Point | ~96 °C (hydrated form) |
| pH (1M solution) | Slightly acidic (~5.0-6.0) |
3. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
| Property | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | White crystalline | - |
| Odor | Odorless | - |
| Chemical Formula | ScCl₃·6H₂O | - |
| Molecular Weight | 266.31 g/mol | - |
| Density | ~2.12 g/cm³ | - |
| Melting Point | ~96 °C | Hydrated form |
| Solubility in Water (25°C) | High solubility | - |
| Solubility in Alcohol | Soluble | - |
| Solubility in Acids | Soluble | - |
| pH (1M solution) | Slightly acidic (~5.0-6.0) | - |
| Stability | Hygroscopic | Must be stored in moisture-free conditions |
| Hygroscopicity | High | Absorbs moisture from air |
4. PURITY GRADES
| Parameter | Technical Grade | High Purity Grade | Analytical Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purity (ScCl₃·6H₂O) | ≥ 99.0% | ≥ 99.5% | ≥ 99.9% |
| Scandium (Sc) Content | ≥ 16.8% | ≥ 17.0% | ≥ 17.2% |
| Other Rare Earths | ≤ 1.0% | ≤ 0.5% | ≤ 0.1% |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 100 ppm | ≤ 50 ppm | ≤ 20 ppm |
| Calcium (Ca) | ≤ 100 ppm | ≤ 50 ppm | ≤ 20 ppm |
| Sodium (Na) | ≤ 100 ppm | ≤ 50 ppm | ≤ 20 ppm |
| Lead (Pb) | ≤ 50 ppm | ≤ 20 ppm | ≤ 10 ppm |
| Sulfate (SO₄²⁻) | ≤ 0.2% | ≤ 0.1% | ≤ 0.05% |
| Nitrate (NO₃⁻) | ≤ 0.2% | ≤ 0.1% | ≤ 0.05% |
| Loss on Drying | Variable | Variable | Variable |
| Particle Size (D50) | 10-50 µm | 5-20 µm | 1-10 µm |
5. STABILITY AND REACTIVITY
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Chemical Stability | Hygroscopic; stable under dry, closed conditions. |
| Conditions to Avoid | High humidity, exposure to open atmosphere, prolonged air contact, high temperatures. |
| Incompatible Materials | Strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, alkali metals. |
| Hazardous Decomposition Products | At high temperatures: hydrogen chloride (HCl) and scandium oxychloride (ScOCl). |
| Hazardous Polymerization | Will not occur. |
| Hygroscopicity | High; when exposed to air, it absorbs moisture and tends to deliquesce (become liquid). |
5.1. Chemical Reactions
Thermal Decomposition (Hydrated Form):
ScCl₃·6H₂O → ScCl₃ + 6H₂O (~100-150°C)
ScCl₃ + H₂O → ScOCl + 2HCl (hydrolysis at high temperature)
Behavior in Aqueous Solution:
ScCl₃(aq) → Sc³⁺(aq) + 3Cl⁻(aq)
Precipitation with Alkali:
ScCl₃ + 3NaOH → Sc(OH)₃↓ + 3NaCl
6. APPLICATION AREAS
6.1. Catalyst Applications
| Application | Function | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Organic Synthesis Catalyst | Catalytic activity | Various organic transformations |
| Polymerization Catalyst | Polymerization initiator | Some polymerization reactions |
| Lewis Acid | Acid catalyst | Friedel-Crafts and other acid-catalyzed reactions |
6.2. Materials Science
| Application | Function | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Scandium Alloys | Precursor | Lightweight high-strength alloys |
| Ceramic Production | Additive | Advanced ceramics |
| Nanomaterial Synthesis | Starting material | Scandium-based nanoparticles |
6.3. Optics and Electronics
| Application | Function | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Phosphor Production | Additive | Rare earth-doped phosphors |
| Optical Materials | Rare earth additive | Special optical applications |
| Electronic Components | Additive | Semiconductor and dielectric materials |
6.4. Research
| Application | Function | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Scandium Compounds | Chemical and biological studies | Properties of scandium compounds |
| Coordination Chemistry | Starting material | Coordination complexes |
| Standard Preparation | Reference material | Calibration and analysis studies |
6.5. Sectoral Suitability Table
| Sector | Suitability | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics | Suitable | Optical materials, semiconductors |
| Ceramics/Glass | Suitable | Advanced ceramics, specialty glasses |
| Catalyst | Suitable | Organic synthesis, polymerization |
| Research | Suitable | Chemical and biological studies |
| Metallurgy | Suitable | Scandium alloys |
| Water Treatment | Not Suitable | Not suitable |
| Food | Not Suitable | Not suitable |
| Cosmetics | Not Suitable | Not suitable |
7. PRODUCTION PROCESS
| Stage | Process | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Raw Material Preparation | Scandium oxide (Sc₂O₃) | High purity scandium oxide obtained |
| 2. Acid Dissolution | Dissolution in hydrochloric acid (HCl) | Sc₂O₃ + 6HCl → 2ScCl₃ + 3H₂O |
| 3. Filtration | Removal of impurities | Insoluble impurities are filtered out |
| 4. Concentration | Evaporation | Solution is concentrated |
| 5. Crystallization | Hydrated form | ScCl₃·6H₂O crystallized |
| 6. Drying | Controlled conditions | Crystals dried under appropriate conditions |
| 7. Packaging | Moisture-proof packaging | Packaged in moisture-proof containers due to hygroscopic nature |
7.1. Alternative Production Method
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Solvent Extraction | Purification after solvent extraction from rare earth ores |
7.2. Major Producing Countries
| Country | Description |
|---|---|
| China | Major producer |
| USA | Rare earth production (Sigma-Aldrich, Alfa Aesar) |
| Germany | High purity production |
| Japan | High purity production |
8. ALTERNATIVE / SUBSTITUTE PRODUCTS
| Alternative | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Scandium Oxide (Sc₂O₃) | Scandium source | When oxide form is required |
| Scandium Nitrate (Sc(NO₃)₃) | Scandium source | When different anion is required |
| Scandium Acetate | Organic synthesis | When organic solvent compatibility is required |
| Yttrium Chloride (YCl₃) | Similar chemical properties | Lower cost alternative |
| Lanthanum Chloride (LaCl₃) | Similar chemical properties | When La is required |
9. SAFETY AND TOXICOLOGY
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Acute Oral Toxicity (LD50, Rat) | > 2,000 mg/kg (low toxicity) |
| Dermal Toxicity | Low |
| Skin Irritation | Mild to moderate irritant |
| Eye Irritation | Serious irritant |
| Inhalation | Dust inhalation may cause respiratory tract irritation. |
| Carcinogenicity | Not classified as carcinogenic. |
| Mutagenicity | Not mutagenic. |
| Chronic Effects | Rare earth compounds have low bioavailability; however, high doses may cause liver effects. |
| Environmental Hazards | Moderate aquatic toxicity; caution required due to chloride ion content. |
9.1. GHS Classification
| Hazard Class | Category | H-Statement |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Irritation | Category 2 | H315: Causes skin irritation. |
| Eye Irritation | Category 2A | H319: Causes serious eye irritation. |
| Specific Target Organ Toxicity | Category 3 | H335: May cause respiratory irritation. |
Signal Word: WARNING
Hazard Pictograms: GHS07 (Exclamation Mark)
10. PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (P-CODES)
| Code | Statement |
|---|---|
| P261 | Avoid breathing dust. |
| P264 | Wash thoroughly after handling. |
| P271 | Use only in well-ventilated areas. |
| P280 | Wear protective gloves/eye protection/face protection. |
| P302+P352 | IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water. |
| P304+P340 | IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. |
| P305+P351+P338 | IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. |
| P337+P313 | If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. |
| P501 | Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. |
11. FIRST AID MEASURES
| Exposure Route | Action to Take |
|---|---|
| Inhalation | Remove to fresh air. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention. |
| Skin Contact | Wash with plenty of soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing. If irritation persists, seek medical attention. |
| Eye Contact | Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses. If irritation persists, seek medical attention. |
| Ingestion | Rinse mouth. Drink plenty of water. If large amount is swallowed, seek medical attention. |
12. STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE
| Parameter | Condition |
|---|---|
| Storage Conditions | Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Ensure a moisture-free environment. |
| Container Requirements | Moisture-proof, airtight, tightly closed containers. Glass bottle or PTFE-lined containers. |
| Temperature | Room temperature (15-25°C). |
| Shelf Life | 12-18 months under appropriate conditions (due to hygroscopic nature). |
| Stability Note | Highly hygroscopic; rapidly degrades in humid environments. If left open, Sc(OH)₃ and Sc₂(CO₃)₃ may form. |
13. PACKAGING OPTIONS
| Packaging Type | Quantity | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Laboratory Packaging | 1 g, 5 g, 10 g, 25 g | Glass bottle, sealed cap, inert atmosphere |
| Laboratory Packaging | 50 g, 100 g | HDPE bottle, inert atmosphere |
| Industrial Packaging | 25 kg | PE-lined bag, moisture-proof |
| Drum | 25 kg, 50 kg | HDPE drum, moisture-proof |
14. TRANSPORT INFORMATION
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| UN Number | Not classified (specific regulations apply for rare earth compounds) |
| Hazard Class | - |
| Packing Group | - |
| ADR/RID | Not regulated |
| IMDG | Not regulated |
| IATA | Not regulated |
| HS Code | 2846.90.00.00.19 (Other rare earth compounds) |
15. REGULATORY STATUS
| Region / Authority | Status |
|---|---|
| European Union (REACH) | Registered |
| Turkey (KKDIK) | Compliance required |
| TSCA (USA) | Registered |
| CLP/GHS | Compliant |
| FDA/EFSA | Not approved as a food additive |
| ISO 9001:2015 | Production compliance |
16. OTHER NAMES AND SYNONYMS
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Scandium Trichloride Hexahydrate | Chemical name |
| Scandium(III) Chloride Hexahydrate | Chemical name |
| ScCl₃·6H₂O | Chemical abbreviation |
| Scandium Chloride Hexahydrate | English name |
| Scandium Trichloride Hexahydrate | English name |
17. QUICK REFERENCE TABLE
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 20662-14-0 |
| EC Number | 239-854-3 |
| Chemical Formula | ScCl₃·6H₂O |
| Molecular Weight | 266.31 g/mol |
| Appearance | White crystalline |
| Density | ~2.12 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | ~96 °C (hydrated form) |
| Solubility in Water | High solubility |
| HS Code | 2846.90.00.00.19 |
| GHS Signal Word | WARNING |
18. CRITICAL WARNINGS AND BEST PRACTICES
CRITICAL WARNINGS:
Highly Hygroscopic Nature: Scandium chloride hexahydrate has a very high moisture absorption capacity. When exposed to air, it rapidly absorbs moisture, begins to dissolve, and loses its quality. Extreme care must be taken to avoid moisture during storage and handling.
Thermal Decomposition: Above ~100-150°C, water loss begins; at higher temperatures, toxic hydrogen chloride (HCl) gas is released. Ventilation is essential.
Incompatibility: Contact with strong oxidizing agents creates a fire and explosion risk.
Eye and Skin Irritation: Due to its acidic nature, it causes irritation to skin and eyes. Protective equipment is mandatory during use.
High Value: Scandium is a critical and valuable rare earth element; losses should be minimized and recycling options explored.
BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Storage:
Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
Use moisture-proof, airtight containers.
Keep away from oxidizing agents.
Store at room temperature (15-25°C).
Handling:
Immediately close containers tightly when not in use.
Ensure a dry working environment during use (humidity control).
Use a dust mask (N95 or better), protective goggles, and chemically resistant gloves.
Avoid dust formation and inhalation.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
When preparing solutions, add slowly due to acidic character.
Waste Management:
Dispose of in accordance with local regulations as heavy metal waste.
Do not discharge into water sources or sewers.
For large quantities, rare earth recovery should be considered.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only and has been prepared based on available technical data. The user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their specific applications and for complying with all local, national, and international regulations. For complete safety, storage, handling, transport, disposal, and regulatory compliance information, the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier must be consulted. This document does not substitute professional advice. Scandium chloride hexahydrate requires careful handling and storage due to its highly hygroscopic nature and value; it is an important raw material for catalysts, materials science, and research applications.