Zirconium tetrachloride

Synonyms

Tetrachlorozirconium; Zirconium chloride; Zirconium chloride (ZrCl4); Zirconium chloride, tetra-; Zirconium(IV) chloride (1:4); Zirconium chloride, (T-4)-; [ChemIDplus] UN2503

Category

Metals, Inorganic Compounds

Description

Very hygroscopic lustrous solid; Decomposed by water; [Merck Index] White powder; [MSDSonline]

Sources/Uses

Used in catalysts and reagents and to make water-repellent textiles, leather, and other zirconium compounds; [HSDB] Used as a chemical reagent and to make high-temperature fuel cells, zirconium nitride coatings, and zirconium organometallic compounds; [Ullmann]

Comments

Produces hydrogen chloride vapor on exposure to moisture; [Merck Index] A skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant; Inhalation may cause pulmonary edema; Reacts with water evolving heat, hydrogen chloride, and dense white clouds; [HSDB] Corrosive to skin and eyes; [eChemPortal: ERMA] Effects in high-dose animal studies include acute tubular necrosis; [MSDSonline] See "Zirconium."

Biomedical References

5 mg/m3, as Zr

10 mg/m3, as Zr

5 mg/m3, as Zr (compounds)

25 mg/m3, as Zr

will not burn

Yes

Skin burns

Processes

Industrial Processes with risk of exposure:

• Leather Tanning and Processing
• Textiles (Printing, Dyeing, or Finishing)