Aluminium Nitrate Nonahydrate

Aluminium nitrate nonahydrate is a chemical compound with the molecular formula Al(NO3)3.9H2O. It is a hydrated form of aluminium nitrate, which means it contains water molecules in its crystal structure. The compound is a white crystalline solid that is soluble in water and ethanol.

The structure of aluminium nitrate nonahydrate consists of one aluminium cation (Al3+) and three nitrate anions (NO3-) per formula unit. The Al3+ cation is surrounded by six water molecules in an octahedral arrangement, while the NO3- anions are situated in the interstitial spaces between these octahedra. The remaining three water molecules are not directly coordinated to the Al3+ ion or the NO3- anions, but are instead held in place through hydrogen bonding interactions.

Aluminium nitrate nonahydrate has several applications, including as a reagent in the production of other chemicals such as aluminium hydroxide and aluminium oxide. It can also be used as a mordant in the textile industry, as a catalyst in organic chemical reactions, and as a component of rocket propellants.

One important thing to note about aluminium nitrate nonahydrate is that it can be hazardous if mishandled. The compound is an oxidizing agent and can react violently with certain substances, particularly reducing agents. It can also cause skin and eye irritation upon contact, and inhalation of its dust can cause respiratory problems. Therefore, appropriate precautions should be taken when handling this compound.