Nickel(II) Chloride Anhydrous: Properties, Uses, and Safety

Nickel(II) chloride anhydrous, also known as nickelous chloride, is a chemical compound with the formula NiCl2. It is an odorless green crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. In this article, we will explore the properties, uses, and safety of nickel(II) chloride anhydrous.

1. What is Nickel(II) Chloride Anhydrous?

Nickel(II) chloride anhydrous is a green-colored crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. It is the anhydrous form of nickel chloride, which means that it does not contain any water molecules in its crystal structure. Nickel(II) chloride anhydrous is a transition metal compound that contains one nickel ion (Ni2+) and two chloride ions (Cl-).

2. Physical and Chemical Properties of Nickel(II) Chloride Anhydrous

Nickel(II) chloride anhydrous has the following physical and chemical properties:

• Molecular weight: 129.60 g/mol
• Density: 3.55 g/cm3
• Melting point: 1001°C
• Boiling point: 1403°C
• Solubility in water: 254 g/L at 20°C
• pH: 3.5 (10 g/L solution)
• Appearance: green crystalline solid

3. Preparation of Nickel(II) Chloride Anhydrous

Nickel(II) chloride anhydrous can be prepared by the reaction between nickel metal or nickel oxide and hydrochloric acid. The reaction is exothermic and produces hydrogen gas:

Ni + 2HCl → NiCl2 + H2

NiO + 2HCl → NiCl2 + H2O

Another method of preparation involves the dehydration of hydrated nickel(II) chloride. This can be achieved by heating the hydrated salt to a temperature of about 140°C.

4. Uses of Nickel(II) Chloride Anhydrous

Nickel(II) chloride anhydrous has various uses in different industries. Some of these uses are discussed below:

Electroplating

Nickel(II) chloride anhydrous is used in electroplating to deposit a layer of nickel on a metal surface. This process is commonly used to protect metals from corrosion and wear. Nickel electroplating is also used to give a decorative finish to metal surfaces.

Catalyst

Nickel(II) chloride anhydrous is used as a catalyst in various chemical reactions. For example, it is used in the hydrogenation of organic compounds, such as vegetable oils, to produce margarine and other food products.

Pigment

Nickel(II) chloride anhydrous is used as a green pigment in ceramics and glass. It is also used as a coloring agent in paint and ink.

Polymerization

Nickel(II) chloride anhydrous is used as a catalyst in the polymerization of olefins, such as ethylene and propylene, to produce polyethylene and polypropylene, respectively. These polymers are widely used in the production of plastic products.

Inorganic Synthesis

Nickel(II) chloride anhydrous is also used in inorganic synthesis as a source of nickel ions. It is commonly used in the preparation of other nickel compounds, such as nickel carbonyl, nickel hydroxide, and nickel oxide.

5. Safety Considerations of Nickel(II) Chloride Anhydrous

Nickel(II) chloride anhydrous is considered to be a hazardous chemical due to its toxicity. It is classified as a carcinogen and can cause respiratory, skin, and eye irritation upon exposure. Therefore, proper precautions should be taken when handling nickel(II) chloride anhydrous, such as wearing protective gloves, goggles, and clothing. It is also important to store it in a well-ventilated area away from sources of ignition.

6. Conclusion

Nickel(II) chloride anhydrous is a useful chemical compound with various applications in different industries, such as electroplating, catalysts, pigments, and polymerization. However, due to its toxicity, it is important to handle it with caution and follow proper safety procedures.