Product Introduction & Main Application
Arnico’s Ferric Chloride (FeCl₃) is a dark brown, highly water-soluble metallic salt, recognized as one of the most powerful and cost-effective coagulants for municipal and industrial water and wastewater treatment. By rapidly removing suspended solids, phosphates, and heavy metals, it guarantees clear and safe water. Additionally, it has vital applications in the electronics industry (copper etching), metallurgy, and as a catalyst in chemical synthesis.
2. Technical Specifications
| Technical Parameter | Water Treatment Grade | Electronic/Etching Grade | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purity (as FeCl₃) | ≥ 40 (Solution) / ≥ 96 (Solid) | ≥ 99.0 (Solid) | % |
| Fe²⁺ (Ferrous Iron) | ≤ 0.5 | ≤ 0.05 | % |
| Free Acid (as HCl) | ≤ 0.5 | ≤ 0.1 | % |
| Water Insoluble Matter | ≤ 0.5 | ≤ 0.1 | % |
| Density (20°C, 40% Solution) | 1.42 – 1.46 | – | g/cm³ |
| Appearance | Dark brown liquid | Green-brown crystals/powder | – |
3. Features & Benefits
Ultra-Fast Coagulation & Settling: Forms heavy, dense flocs that settle at an astonishing speed, minimizing water turbidity.
Phosphate & Heavy Metal Removal: Exceptional performance in stripping nutrient pollutants (phosphorus) and toxic metals from water streams.
Stability Across a Wide pH Range: Unlike aluminum salts, it maintains its efficiency over a broader range of water acidity.
Ultra-Pure Electronic Grade: Free from ferrous iron impurities, which is critical for precise and uniform copper etching in Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs).
4. Industrial Applications
Water & Wastewater Treatment: The primary coagulant in municipal water plants, industrial effluents, and sewage sludge.
Electronics & PCB Industry: The main etching agent for copper in the production of printed circuit boards.
Metallurgy & Metal Extraction: Selective leaching of copper, gold, and silver ores.
Chemical & Dye Industry: A catalyst in organic synthesis (Friedel-Crafts reaction) and a mordant in textile dyeing.
5. Safety & Handling
MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): This material is acidic, corrosive, and a severe skin and eye irritant. Its vapors are toxic when heated. Obtain the Arnico MSDS file.
Storage Conditions: Store in acid-resistant tanks (Polyethylene, FRP, Titanium) in a sealed, cool, dry environment, away from alkali metals and strong oxidizing agents.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): When handling, the use of acid-resistant rubber gloves, full safety goggles, and acid-proof workwear is mandatory.
6. Quality Assurance & COA
All Arnico Ferric Chloride shipments are accompanied by a valid Certificate of Analysis (COA), guaranteeing the product’s full compliance with international quality standards (AWWA/EN).
