What is lithium nitrate?
Name: Lithium nitrate
CAS No.: 790-69-4
Molecular formula: LiNO3
EINECS No.: 232-218-9
Molecular weight: 68.95
Package: 25kg cardboard drum or plastic woven bag
Basic information:
Properties: Colorless crystal or white powder, specific gravity 2.38, melting point 264°C, decomposes at 600°C, easily soluble in water, pyridine, ethanol, acetone, aqueous solution is neutral.
LiNO3 is moderately toxic.On singestion, it affects the central nervous system and can cause damage to kidneys. it is a strong oxidizer. It is incompatible with reducing agents, metal powders, flammables &organics.
Avoid storage in the presence of active chlorine gas and hot sunlight, and keep it sealed.
Usage and main function
Mainly used in the electroplating industry to make nickel batteries, organic synthesis and production of hardened oil as a catalyst for paints, to make other nickel salt raw materials, for metal coloring, and as a mordant for vat dyes. It can also be used as a catalyst in the crucible process in the fiberglass industry. Like all other nitrates, LiNO3 is a good oxidizer.
Preparation of lithium nitrate
It is often prepared by mixing equimolar solutions of lithium hydroxide and Nitric acid
LiOH + HNO3 —-LiNO3 + H2O
- Measure out gms of LiOH(monohydrate) and dissolve it in ml of water, shake the mixture to mix evenly.
- Add 3.2 ml of 70% Nitric acid to LiOH solution, shake the mixture to fully react.
- Lithium nitrate cannot be crystallized by boiling its aqueous solution as it is deliquescent in nature.
- LiNO3 is readily soluble in water. Its aqueous solution is almost neutral to slightly basic.