CAS 13775-53-6 Trisodium Hexafluoroaluminate Crushed Bath Synthetic Cryolite For Aluminium Smelter

Cryolite, also known as trisodium hexafluoroaluminate, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Na3AlF6. It is a white, crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water. Cryolite has a number of unique properties that make it useful in various industrial applications.

Data Sheet:

Chemical formula: Na3AlF6
Molar mass: 209.94 g/mol
Melting point: 1,027°C (1,881°F)
Boiling point: Decomposes
Density: 2.95 g/cm³

Function and Properties:

1. Fluxing Agent: Cryolite is primarily known for its use as a fluxing agent in the production of aluminum. It lowers the melting point of alumina (aluminum oxide) and helps dissolve impurities, allowing for easier extraction of aluminum during the electrolytic smelting process. It improves the conductivity of the electrolyte and reduces the energy consumption required for aluminum production.

2. Electrolyte in Aluminum Smelting: Cryolite is used as an electrolyte in the Hall-Héroult process, which is the primary method for industrial production of aluminum. In this process, cryolite acts as a solvent and facilitates the flow of electric current through the molten mixture, allowing for the extraction of aluminum from alumina.

3. Abrasive: Cryolite is also used as an abrasive material in various applications. Its hardness and abrasive properties make it suitable for polishing and grinding applications, particularly for metals, glass, and ceramics. It is often used as an ingredient in abrasive pastes, powders, and slurries.

4. Glass and Ceramics Industry: Cryolite finds application in the glass and ceramics industry. It can be used as a fluxing agent in glass manufacturing processes, lowering the melting point of the raw materials and improving the transparency and stability of the glass. In ceramics, cryolite can act as a flux, enhancing the sintering process and improving the properties of ceramic materials.

5. Insecticide and Pesticide: Cryolite has insecticidal properties and has been used as an insecticide and pesticide in agriculture. It can be used to control pests such as beetles, caterpillars, and ants. However, its use in this regard has declined due to environmental concerns.

6. Aluminum Welding Flux: Cryolite is used as a component in aluminum welding fluxes. The flux helps remove oxide layers, improves the wetting properties of the molten aluminum, and prevents the formation of defects during the welding process.