Ferric chloride

CAS: 7705-08-0

Overview

Ferric chloride (CAS 7705-08-0 ), also known commercially as iron trichloride, is an inorganic iron salt used across water treatment, metal processing, and chemical synthesis. It functions primarily as a coagulant, etchant, and catalyst depending on the application sector.

In municipal and industrial water treatment, ferric chloride precipitates suspended solids and phosphates, making it a standard coagulant-flocculant for effluent clarification. This process is essential for meeting environmental discharge regulations.

PCB manufacturers and metal fabricators use it as an etchant to selectively dissolve copper and other metals with controlled precision. This chemical milling process is vital for high-accuracy electronic component production.

Textile and leather processors apply it as a mordant to fix dyes and improve color fastness on natural fibers. This ensures that pigments remain stable and vibrant throughout the lifecycle of the finished material.

In chemical synthesis and pharmaceutical manufacturing, it acts as a Lewis acid catalyst for Friedel-Crafts reactions and other electrophilic processes. Its reactivity makes it a versatile tool for complex organic transformations.

Ferric chloride is supplied as an anhydrous solid, hexahydrate crystals, or as a liquid solution. It is typically provided at 40–45% concentration for large-scale water treatment and industrial applications.

Standard grades include technical, industrial, and reagent-grade specifications to meet the requirements of different end uses. These grades ensure the material meets specific purity levels for sensitive laboratory or manufacturing work.

Bulk liquid supply in IBC containers or tankers is common for large-scale water treatment procurement. Solid forms are also available in bags or drums to accommodate various storage and handling preferences.

Physical Properties

Melting Point	~300 °C (approx)
Boiling Point	~316 °C (approx)
Density	2.898 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C
Flash Point	316°C
Appearance	Ferric Chloride is a black-brown, dark-green, or black crystalline solid.
Color	Yellow
Form	powder
Water Solubility	920 g/L (20 ºC)
Vapor Pressure	1 mm Hg ( 194 °C)
Refractive Index	n20/D1.414
pH	1 (200g/l, H2O, 20℃)

Safety & Handling

Danger GHS05 GHS07 GHS08 GHS09 Hazard Statements H302 Harmful if swallowed H304 May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage H315 Causes skin irritation H318 Causes serious eye damage H335 May cause respiratory irritation H341 Suspected of causing genetic defects H370 Causes damage to organs H371 May cause damage to organs H402 Harmful to aquatic life H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects Precautionary Statements P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use. P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P317 Get emergency medical help. P318 IF exposed or concerned, get medical advice. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P331 Do NOT induce vomiting. P363 Wash contaminated clothing before reuse. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P308+P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P301+P330+P331 Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. P302+P361+P354 IF ON SKIN: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower. P305+P354+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code	28273990
UN Number	2582
ADR Class	8
Packing Group	III
Storage Class	8B - Non-combustible corrosive hazardous materials
WGK (Germany)	1

Other Names

Industries

Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare Mining & Metals Textile, Leather & Paper Pulp & Paper Water Treatment