Iron(III) chloride 98% (Anhydrous) 500g
Iron(III) chloride is the inorganic compound with the formula (FeCl3). Also called ferric chloride, it is a common compound of iron in the +3 oxidation state. The anhydrous compound is a crystalline solid with a melting point of 307.6 °C. The color depends on the viewing angle: by reflected light the crystals appear dark green, but by transmitted light they appear purple-red.
Anhydrous
Anhydrous iron(III) chloride has the BiI3 structure, with octahedral Fe(III) centers interconnected by two-coordinate chloride ligands.
Iron(III) chloride has a relatively low melting point and boils at around 315 °C. The vapor consists of the dimer Fe2Cl6 (cf. aluminum chloride) which increasingly dissociates into the monomeric FeCl3 (with D3h point group molecular symmetry) at higher temperature, in competition with its reversible decomposition to give iron(II) chloride and chlorine gas.
Safety
Iron(III) chloride is harmful, highly corrosive and acidic. The anhydrous material is a powerful dehydrating agent.
Although reports of poisoning in humans are rare, ingestion of ferric chloride can result in serious morbidity and mortality. Inappropriate labeling and storage lead to accidental swallowing or misdiagnosis. Early diagnosis is important, especially in seriously poisoned patients.
Natural occurrence
The natural counterpart of FeCl3 is the rare mineral molysite, usually related to volcanic and other-type fumaroles.
FeCl3 is also produced as an atmospheric salt aerosol by reaction between iron-rich dust and hydrochloric acid from sea salt. This iron salt aerosol causes about 5% of naturally-occurring oxidization of methane and is thought to have a range of cooling effects.
The atmosphere of the planet Venus is approximately 1% ferric chloride.