Product Introduction
Tin Tetrachloride (CAS 7646-78-8), also known as Stannic Chloride or Tin(IV) Chloride, is a heavy, colorless, fuming liquid at room temperature. In its anhydrous form, it reacts vigorously with moisture in the air to release white fumes of hydrogen chloride and tin oxide. Tin Tetrachloride (CAS 7646-78-8) is a versatile inorganic compound and a strong Lewis acid. It is a critical industrial chemical used as a catalyst in organic synthesis, a precursor to organotin compounds, and a key agent for creating transparent conductive oxide (TCO) coatings on glass. Due to its reactive nature, it is handled under anhydrous conditions to maintain its high chemical activity.
Product Selling Points
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Excellent Catalytic Activity: Acts as a potent Lewis acid catalyst for alkylation, polymerization, and Friedel-Crafts reactions.
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High Purity Anhydrous Grade: Chemfine ensures an assay of ≥ 99.5%, minimizing impurities that could interfere with sensitive chemical processes.
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Precision Glass Coating: Ideal for producing high-quality $SnO_2$ coatings on glass surfaces, enhancing scratch resistance and conductivity.
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Primary Organotin Precursor: A fundamental starting material for the synthesis of stabilizers used in the PVC industry.
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Controlled Fuming Characteristics: Produced to strict specifications to ensure consistent reaction rates in industrial applications.
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Robust Export Packaging: Shipped in specialized, hermetically sealed containers to prevent moisture ingress and ensure safe international transport.
Applications
Glass Surface Treatment
Used in the “hot end” coating process of glass containers. It forms a thin, protective layer of tin dioxide ($SnO_2$) that increases the strength and durability of the glass.
Chemical Synthesis & Catalysis
Widely used as a catalyst in the plastics and pharmaceutical industries for various organic transformations, including the synthesis of esters and the curing of resins.
Organotin Manufacturing
The essential raw material for producing organotin compounds, such as methyltin and butyltin, which are used as heat stabilizers for PVC and as biocides.
Electroplating and Mordants
Used in the electronics industry for specialized plating baths and in the textile industry as a mordant for dyeing fabrics.
Packaging
Standard industrial packaging options for Tin Tetrachloride include:
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250kg or 300kg hermetically sealed steel drums (Standard export packaging).
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1500kg IBC tanks (Stainless steel or specialized lined) for high-volume manufacturing.
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ISO Tanks for bulk international maritime transport.
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Small-volume specialized glass or fluorinated bottles for laboratory research.
Storage
Tin Tetrachloride is a corrosive and moisture-sensitive liquid. It must be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated dedicated chemical warehouse. Containers must be kept tightly sealed under an inert gas blanket (Nitrogen or Argon) to prevent contact with moisture. Store away from bases, alcohols, and metals. Ensure the storage area is equipped with acid-resistant flooring and adequate spill containment systems.
Related and Similar Products
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Tin(II) Chloride (Stannous Chloride) – CAS 7772-99-8
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Titanium Tetrachloride – CAS 7550-45-0
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Silicon Tetrachloride – CAS 10026-04-7
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Aluminum Chloride (Anhydrous) – CAS 7446-70-0
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Methyltin Mercaptide – CAS 57583-35-4
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Sodium Stannate – CAS 12058-66-1
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Zinc Chloride – CAS 7646-85-7
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Antimony Pentachloride – CAS 7647-18-9
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Dibutyltin Dilaurate – CAS 77-58-7
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Phosphorus Oxychloride – CAS 10025-87-3
FAQ
Technical Handling and Reactivity
- Q1: Why does Tin Tetrachloride smoke when opened?
A1: It reacts instantly with the moisture in the air to form $HCl$ gas and tin hydroxide/oxide particulates. This is a sign of high-quality anhydrous material.
- Q2: Can it be used in water-based systems?
A2: No. Direct addition to water results in a violent exothermic reaction and hydrolysis. It should be used in anhydrous organic solvents or specialized gas-phase processes.
- Q3: What materials are compatible for handling SnCl4?
A3: Stainless steel (dry), glass-lined steel, and PTFE are recommended. Standard carbon steel or copper alloys will be rapidly corroded by the fumes.
Safety and Logistics
- Q1: Is Tin Tetrachloride hazardous for transport?
A1: Yes, it is classified as a Class 8 Corrosive Substance (UN 1827). It requires specialized UN-rated packaging and labeling for maritime and road transport.
- Q2: What should I do in case of a small spill?
A2: Neutralize with dry lime, soda ash, or sodium bicarbonate. Do not use water to wash the spill unless it is a very large amount and environmental containment is in place, as it will generate $HCl$ gas.
- Q3: What is the shelf life of the anhydrous grade?
A3: If the seal remains unbroken and the nitrogen blanket is maintained, it is stable for 1–2 years. Once opened, it should be used quickly to avoid “crust” formation (tin oxides) around the cap.
