Lithium hydroxide (LiOH) is a strong alkali compound. It’s used in batteries, air purification systems, and spacecraft to remove carbon dioxide from the air.
| IUPAC Name | Lithium Hydroxide |
| Molecular Formula | LiOH |
| CAS Number | 1310-65-2 |
| Synonyms | Lithium Hydrate, Lithia Hydrate, Lithium hydroxide anhydrous |
| InChI | InChI=1S/Li.H2O/h;1H2/q+1;/p-1 |
Lithium Hydroxide Properties
Lithium Hydroxide Formula
The formula of lithium hydroxide is LiOH. It consists of one lithium (Li) atom, one oxygen (O) atom, and one hydrogen (H) atom. This chemical formula represents the balanced combination of these elements in the compound.
Lithium Hydroxide Molar Mass
LiOH’s molar mass is approximately 23.95 g/mol. To calculate this, we add the atomic masses of its constituent elements: lithium (Li) with a molar mass of about 6.94 g/mol, oxygen (O) with a molar mass of about 16.00 g/mol, and hydrogen (H) with a molar mass of about 1.01 g/mol.
Lithium Hydroxide Boiling Point
LiOH has a boiling point of around 924°C (1695°F). When heated to this temperature, the compound undergoes a phase transition from a liquid to a gaseous state.
Lithium Hydroxide Melting Point
The melting point of LiOH is approximately 462°C (864°F). At this temperature, the solid form of the compound changes into a liquid.
Lithium Hydroxide Density g/mL
LiOH has a density of about 1.46 g/mL. This value indicates the mass of the compound per unit volume and is typically measured at room temperature.
Lithium Hydroxide Molecular Weight
The molecular weight of LiOH is roughly 41.96 g/mol. It is the sum of the atomic weights of lithium, oxygen, and hydrogen in the compound.
Lithium Hydroxide Structure
LiOH has an ionic structure, where the Li+ cation is attracted to the hydroxide anion (OH-) through ionic bonds. The arrangement forms a crystalline lattice, resulting in a solid-state compound at room temperature.
Lithium Hydroxide Solubility
LiOH is highly soluble in water. When mixed with water, it dissociates into Li+ ions and hydroxide ions (OH-). This property makes it a useful compound in various applications, such as in the chemical industry and in the production of lithium-based batteries.
| Appearance | White solid |
| Specific Gravity | ~1.46 g/mL |
| Color | White |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Molar Mass | ~41.96 g/mol |
| Density | ~1.46 g/mL |
| Melting Point | ~462°C (864°F) |
| Boiling Point | ~924°C (1695°F) |
| Flash Point | Not Applicable |
| Water Solubility | Soluble, dissociates into lithium ions (Li+) and hydroxide ions (OH-) |
| Solubility | Soluble |
| Vapour Pressure | Not Available |
| Vapour Density | Not Available |
| pKa | Not Available |
| pH | Alkaline (basic) |
Lithium Hydroxide Safety and Hazards
LiOH poses certain safety hazards that require attention. It is an alkaline compound, which means it can cause skin and eye irritation upon contact. Ingestion or inhalation may lead to respiratory and gastrointestinal discomfort. The substance can react with acids, releasing heat and potentially causing burns. Proper handling, including wearing protective equipment and working in well-ventilated areas, is crucial to minimize risks. Additionally, it should be stored away from incompatible substances. In case of accidents, promptly rinse affected areas with water and seek medical assistance. Complying with safety guidelines and protocols is essential to ensure safe usage.
| Hazard Symbols | Corrosive |
| Safety Description | Lithium Hydroxide is corrosive and may cause skin and eye irritation. Avoid ingestion and inhalation. Handle with care. |
| UN IDs | UN2680 |
| HS Code | 2825.30.00 |
| Hazard Class | 8 (Corrosive substances) |
| Packing Group | II |
| Toxicity | Low to moderate toxicity |
Lithium Hydroxide Synthesis Methods
There are several methods for synthesizing LiOH. One common approach involves the reaction between lithium metal or lithium carbonate and water. In this method, lithium metal reacts vigorously with water to form LiOH and hydrogen gas. In a controlled environment, one can control the reaction to ensure safety.
Another method involves reacting lithium oxide or lithium peroxide with water, resulting in a chemical reaction that produces LiOH.
Furthermore, one can obtain LiOH by neutralizing lithium carbonate with a strong base, like NaOH or KOH. This process involves the mixing of the two compounds, resulting in the formation of LiOH and the corresponding carbonate or bicarbonate salt of the base used.
It’s important to note that while performing these synthesis methods, proper safety measures and precautions should be taken, as some of the reactions involve highly reactive or caustic substances. Adhering to standard laboratory practices ensures the successful and safe production of LiOH.
Lithium Hydroxide Uses
LiOH finds diverse applications due to its unique properties. Here are some of its key uses:
- Greases and Lubricants: LiOH acts as a thickening agent in lithium-based greases, enhancing lubrication and protecting mechanical components.
- Ceramics and Glass Industry: It serves as a flux in ceramic and glass production, lowering the melting point and facilitating shaping and molding processes.
- Metallurgy: In the metallurgical industry, it aids in extracting impurities from metal ores, contributing to the production of high-purity metals.
- Chemical Synthesis: It acts as a catalyst or reagent in various chemical reactions, facilitating the synthesis of organic compounds.
- Wastewater Treatment: LiOH plays a role in wastewater treatment processes, helping to adjust pH levels.
- Rechargeable Lithium-ion Batteries: Manufacturers use LiOH as a crucial component in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in electronic devices, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems.
- Air Purification: CO2 scrubbers within spacecraft and submarines utilize LiOH to remove carbon dioxide, ensuring the maintenance of a breathable atmosphere.
- Desiccant: In certain applications, LiOH actively absorbs moisture from the air, functioning effectively as a desiccant.
- Alkaline Batteries: Manufacturers incorporate LiOH as an electrolyte in non-rechargeable alkaline batteries.
- Pharmaceuticals: Certain medications and pharmaceutical preparations employ LiOH in their active formulations.
These applications highlight the widespread utility of LiOH in numerous industries, ranging from electronics and automotive to aerospace and manufacturing.
Questions:
Q: Is lithium hydroxide a strong base?
A: Yes, LiOH is a strong base.
Q: What is lithium hydroxide used for?
A: LiOH is used in batteries, air purification systems, ceramics, and as a desiccant, among other applications.
Q: What is the chemical formula for the base lithium hydroxide?
A: The chemical formula for lithium hydroxide is LiOH.
Q: Is lithium hydroxide a strong electrolyte?
A: Yes, LiOH is a strong electrolyte.
Q: Is LiOH a strong base?
A: Yes, LiOH is a strong base.
Q: Is LiOH an acid or base?
A: LiOH is a base.
Q: Is LiOH soluble in water?
A: Yes, LiOH is soluble in water.
Q: Is LiOH an Arrhenius base?
A: Yes, LiOH is an Arrhenius base.
Q: How is LiOH made?
A: LiOH can be made through reactions involving lithium metal, lithium oxide, or lithium carbonate with water.
Q: What chemical reaction would give LiOH?
A: The reaction of lithium metal or lithium oxide with water would give LiOH.
Q: Is lithium hydroxide stable?
A: Yes, LiOH is stable under normal conditions.