Southern Utah University released chemical safety protocols on Sept. 2, 2026, detailing the hazardous nature of lithium aluminum hydride and anhydrous aluminum chloride. Both substances present significant risks due to their violent reactions with water and their potential to release corrosive gases upon contact with moisture or heat.
Risks of Lithium Aluminum Hydride
The protocols for lithium aluminum hydride (LAH) describe the substance as an odorless solid that reacts violently with water, acids, and oxygenated compounds. According to Southern Utah University, LAH can ignite due to friction, static sparks, or contact with moist air. The chemical is highly corrosive to skin, eyes, and mucous membranes.
When handling large quantities of powdered LAH, the university requires work to be conducted under an inert gas, such as argon or nitrogen, within a glove box or fume hood. Personnel are instructed to avoid contact with moisture and to keep a supply of dry sand and a Class D extinguisher immediately available in the work area.
Properties of Aluminum Chloride
The university's protocols for anhydrous aluminum chloride identify the substance as an odorless, white or yellow crystalline solid. It reacts violently with water to liberate hydrogen chloride (HCl) gas. The solid may also sublime at 178 Celsius, yielding more hydrogen chloride gas. Both the solid and the gas byproduct are highly corrosive to skin, eyes, and mucous membranes.
In terms of compatibility, aluminum chloride is incompatible with alcohols, caustics, nitromethane, sodium oxide, ethylene oxide, and strong oxidizers. It is also noted that the substance can corrode most transition metals.
Emergency and Spill Response
Emergency procedures for both chemicals emphasize that conventional ABC or BC fire extinguishers should never be used. For lithium aluminum hydride, the university recommends using a Class D extinguisher, such as Lith-X or Met-L-X, or smothering the fire with dry sand. For aluminum chloride, users should use a Class D extinguisher or dry sand, and must avoid using water, carbon dioxide, or halogenated extinguishing agents.
In the event of a spill, the university mandates that all sources of ignition or moisture be controlled. Personnel must wear personal protective equipment and cover spills with sand, using spark-resistant tools to scoop materials into containers for disposal. The university explicitly warns against using water or combustible materials like sawdust for cleanup.
Storage and Disposal Requirements
The university's safety guidelines for both substances include strict protocols for skin contact and ingestion. For skin exposure, the university instructs individuals to brush off visible solids and rinse the area with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes. In cases of ingestion, individuals are advised not to induce vomiting, but to drink 2-3 glasses of water and seek medical attention immediately.
Both chemicals must be stored in tightly sealed containers in cool, dry locations away from combustible materials. The university notes that aluminum chloride storage containers may pressurize if they become contaminated with water. All waste for both substances must be stored in tightly sealed containers and disposed of as hazardous waste.
Chemical Incompatibilities
Safety protocols for lithium aluminum hydride specify that the chemical is incompatible with transition metal salts and oxidizing agents. The reaction of LAH with water, acids, or heat produces an exothermic reaction that releases hydrogen gas. To prevent accidents, the university advises against grinding or heating the substance.
Handling Precautions
The handling of anhydrous aluminum chloride requires working in dry surroundings, such as a fume hood or glove box, when using large quantities. The university notes that the substance must be kept away from humid environments to prevent the release of hydrogen chloride gas.
Personal Protective Equipment
For both substances, the university requires the use of safety glasses, impervious gloves, and fire-retardant laboratory coats during handling. The protocols emphasize the necessity of avoiding dust formation and controlling all ignition sources.
