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INDIUM CHLORIDE HYDRATE (INCL₃·XH₂O)
INDIUM CHLORIDE HYDRATE / INDIUM TRICHLORIDE HYDRATE / INDIUM(III) CHLORIDE HYDRATE
1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Indium Chloride Hydrate |
| Chemical Name | Indium(III) Chloride Hydrate, Indium Trichloride Hydrate |
| Other Names | InCl₃·xH₂O |
| CAS Number | 143983-91-9 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | 233-043-0 (anhydrous form) |
| Chemical Formula | InCl₃·xH₂O (x = 3-4 typically) |
| Molecular Weight | ~221.18 g/mol (anhydrous basis) |
| Appearance | White or light yellow crystalline solid |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Physical State (20°C) | Solid (crystalline) |
2. CHEMICAL STRUCTURE
2.1. Molecular Structure
Indium chloride hydrate is the hydrated form of the inorganic compound of indium and chlorine. Indium ions (In³⁺) and chloride ions (Cl⁻) are present in a 1:3 ratio. It contains a variable number of water molecules of hydration (typically 3-4 mol H₂O). Due to its hygroscopic nature, it is sensitive to degradation in humid environments. It exhibits high solubility in water and hydrochloric acid. High purity grades (2N–5N) are available for electronic, optoelectronic, and research applications.
Structural Features:
INDIUM CHLORIDE HYDRATE [InCl₃·xH₂O]
|
In³⁺ - Cl⁻ Ionic Bonds + xH₂O
|
+----------------+----------------+
| | |
White-Yellow Soluble in Highly
Crystalline Water and Hygroscopic
Acids
2.2. Structural Properties
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Crystal Structure | Monoclinic |
| Chemical Formula | InCl₃·xH₂O |
| Molecular Weight | ~221.18 g/mol (anhydrous basis) |
| Density | ~3.46 g/cm³ (anhydrous) |
| Appearance | White or light yellow crystalline solid |
| Melting Point | ~586 °C (anhydrous form) |
| Boiling Point | ~800 °C (anhydrous form, decomposes) |
| pH (1M solution) | Slightly acidic (~4.0-5.0) |
3. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
| Property | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | White or light yellow crystalline solid | - |
| Odor | Odorless | - |
| Chemical Formula | InCl₃·xH₂O | - |
| Molecular Weight | ~221.18 g/mol (anhydrous basis) | - |
| Density | ~3.46 g/cm³ | Anhydrous form |
| Melting Point | ~586 °C | Anhydrous form |
| Boiling Point | ~800 °C | Anhydrous form, decomposes |
| Solubility in Water (25°C) | High solubility | - |
| Solubility in Hydrochloric Acid | High solubility | - |
| Solubility in Alcohol | Soluble | - |
| pH (1M solution) | Slightly acidic (~4.0-5.0) | - |
| Stability | Hygroscopic | Must be stored in moisture-free conditions |
| Hygroscopicity | High | Absorbs moisture from air |
4. PURITY GRADES
| Parameter | Technical Grade (2N) | High Purity Grade (3N) | Analytical Grade (4N) | Ultra-High Purity (5N) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purity (InCl₃) | ≥ 99.0% | ≥ 99.9% | ≥ 99.99% | ≥ 99.999% |
| Indium (In) Content | ≥ 52.0% | ≥ 52.5% | ≥ 52.8% | ≥ 53.0% |
| Chloride (Cl⁻) Content | ≥ 47.5% | ≥ 48.0% | ≥ 48.3% | ≥ 48.5% |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 100 ppm | ≤ 50 ppm | ≤ 20 ppm | ≤ 10 ppm |
| Lead (Pb) | ≤ 50 ppm | ≤ 20 ppm | ≤ 10 ppm | ≤ 5 ppm |
| Zinc (Zn) | ≤ 100 ppm | ≤ 50 ppm | ≤ 20 ppm | ≤ 10 ppm |
| Calcium (Ca) | ≤ 100 ppm | ≤ 50 ppm | ≤ 20 ppm | ≤ 10 ppm |
| Sodium (Na) | ≤ 100 ppm | ≤ 50 ppm | ≤ 20 ppm | ≤ 10 ppm |
| Sulfate (SO₄²⁻) | ≤ 0.5% | ≤ 0.2% | ≤ 0.1% | ≤ 0.05% |
| Moisture / Loss on Drying | Variable | Variable | Variable | Variable |
| Particle Size | Variable | Variable | Variable | Variable |
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 indium oxide (In₂O₃). |
| 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):
InCl₃·xH₂O → InCl₃ + xH₂O (~100-150°C)
InCl₃ + H₂O → InOCl + 2HCl (hydrolysis at high temperature)
Behavior in Aqueous Solution:
InCl₃(aq) → In³⁺(aq) + 3Cl⁻(aq)
Precipitation with Alkali:
InCl₃ + 3NaOH → In(OH)₃↓ + 3NaCl
Precipitation with Ammonia:
InCl₃ + 3NH₄OH → In(OH)₃↓ + 3NH₄Cl
Complex Formation with Excess Base:
InCl₃ + 4NaOH → Na[In(OH)₄] + 3NaCl
6. APPLICATION AREAS
6.1. Semiconductor and Electronic Materials
| Application | Function | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Indium-Based Semiconductors | Precursor | InP, InAs, InSb production |
| Optoelectronic Materials | Additive | Indium-based optical materials |
| Thin Film Coatings | Source material | PVD and CVD applications |
| ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) | Precursor | Transparent conductive oxide production |
6.2. Catalyst Applications
| Application | Function | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Lewis Acid Catalyst | Catalytic activity | Friedel-Crafts reactions |
| Organic Synthesis Catalyst | Catalytic activity | Various organic transformations |
| Polymerization Catalyst | Polymerization initiator | Some polymerization reactions |
6.3. Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials
| Application | Function | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Nanomaterial Synthesis | Starting material | Indium-based nanoparticles |
| Quantum Dots | Precursor | Indium-based quantum dots |
| Materials Science Research | Source material | New material development |
6.4. Sectoral Suitability Table
| Sector | Suitability | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics | Suitable | Semiconductor materials, InP, InAs, ITO |
| Optoelectronics | Suitable | Optical materials, thin film coatings |
| Catalyst | Suitable | Lewis acid, organic synthesis |
| Nanotechnology | Suitable | Nanoparticle synthesis, quantum dots |
| Research | Suitable | Materials science, advanced material development |
| Pharmaceutical | Not Suitable | Not suitable |
| Agriculture | Not Suitable | Not suitable |
| Food | Not Suitable | Not suitable |
7. PRODUCTION PROCESS
| Stage | Process | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Raw Material Preparation | Indium oxide (In₂O₃) or indium metal | High purity indium sources |
| 2. Acid Dissolution | Dissolution in hydrochloric acid (HCl) | In₂O₃ + 6HCl → 2InCl₃ + 3H₂O |
| 3. Filtration | Removal of impurities | Insoluble impurities are filtered out |
| 4. Concentration | Evaporation | Solution is concentrated |
| 5. Crystallization | Hydrated form | InCl₃·xH₂O crystallized |
| 6. Drying | Controlled conditions | Crystals dried under appropriate conditions |
| 7. Packaging | Moisture-proof packaging | Packaged under inert atmosphere due to hygroscopic nature |
7.1. Major Producing Countries
| Country | Description |
|---|---|
| China | Major producer |
| USA | Indium production (American Elements, Sigma-Aldrich) |
| Germany | High purity production |
| Japan | High purity production |
8. ALTERNATIVE / SUBSTITUTE PRODUCTS
| Alternative | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Indium(III) Chloride Anhydrous (InCl₃) | More stable form | When moisture sensitivity is not a concern |
| Gallium Chloride (GaCl₃) | Similar semiconductor applications | When Ga is required |
| Indium Oxide (In₂O₃) | Indium source | When oxide form is required |
| Indium Nitrate (In(NO₃)₃) | Indium source | When different anion is required |
| Indium Acetate (In(CH₃COO)₃) | Organic synthesis | When organic solvent compatibility 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 element compounds have low bioavailability; prolonged exposure may cause lung effects. |
| Environmental Hazards | Moderate aquatic toxicity. |
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. |
| Hazardous to the Aquatic Environment | Category 2 | H401: Toxic to aquatic life. |
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 | Airtight, moisture-proof containers. Glass bottle or under inert atmosphere. |
| 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. Must be stored in closed packaging under inert atmosphere. |
13. PACKAGING OPTIONS
| Packaging Type | Quantity | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Laboratory Packaging | 5 g, 10 g, 25 g, 50 g | Sealed glass bottle, inert atmosphere |
| Laboratory Packaging | 100 g, 250 g, 500 g | HDPE bottle, inert atmosphere |
| Industrial Packaging | 1 kg, 5 kg | PE-lined drum, moisture-proof |
| Industrial Packaging | 25 kg | HDPE drum, moisture-proof |
14. TRANSPORT INFORMATION
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| UN Number | Not classified (specific regulations apply for metal compounds) |
| Hazard Class | - |
| Packing Group | - |
| ADR/RID | Not regulated |
| IMDG | Not regulated |
| IATA | Not regulated |
| HS Code | 2827.39.00.00.00 (Other chlorides) |
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 |
|---|---|
| Indium Trichloride Hydrate | Chemical name |
| Indium(III) Chloride Hydrate | Chemical name |
| InCl₃·xH₂O | Chemical abbreviation |
| Indium Chloride Hydrate | English name |
| Indium Trichloride Hydrate | English name |
17. QUICK REFERENCE TABLE
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 143983-91-9 |
| EC Number | 233-043-0 |
| Chemical Formula | InCl₃·xH₂O |
| Molecular Weight | ~221.18 g/mol (anhydrous basis) |
| Appearance | White or light yellow crystalline solid |
| Density | ~3.46 g/cm³ (anhydrous) |
| Melting Point | ~586 °C (anhydrous) |
| Solubility in Water | High solubility |
| HS Code | 2827.39.00.00.00 |
| GHS Signal Word | WARNING |
18. CRITICAL WARNINGS AND BEST PRACTICES
CRITICAL WARNINGS:
Highly Hygroscopic Nature: Indium chloride hydrate 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.
Critical Raw Material: Indium is a critical and valuable metal for ITO and semiconductor applications; 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, indium recovery should be considered (valuable and critical metal).
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. Indium chloride hydrate requires careful handling and storage due to its highly hygroscopic nature and critical role in electronic applications; it is an important raw material for semiconductor, ITO, and catalyst applications.