Aluminium fluoride (AlF3) is an inorganic compound used primarily in the production of aluminium. This colorless solid can be prepared synthetically but also occurs in nature. Aluminum fluoride is an inorganic compound, whose chemical formula is AlF3. It can be prepared by the reaction of aluminum hydroxide or the metal aluminum with hydrogen fluoride. The solid structure is similar to rhenium trioxide (ReO3) and consists of twisted aluminum hexafluoride (AlF6) octahedron. Unlike other halides of aluminum, AlF3 is refractory. AlCl3, AlBr3 and AlI3 are dimers in liquid and gas. At about 1000°C, gaseous aluminum fluoride has a planar triangular configuration with a D3h symmetric group. The al-f bond is 163pm long. Aluminum fluoride can increase the electrical conductivity of electrolytes and reduce the melting point of alumina, so it is an important additive in the production of electrolytic aluminum.

Application

Used as analytical reagent, catalyst and by-fermentation inhibitor in ethanol production. Used for fluoride preparation and white glaze manufacturing.