Chemical & Physical Properties
- Appearance: White crystalline powder
- Melting Point: ~280°C (Decomposes)
- Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
- Density: ~0.67 g/cm³
- Solubility:
- Soluble in ethers such as THF
- Reacts with water, releasing hydrogen gas (H₂)
- Stability: Stable under dry, inert conditions
Key Features & Benefits
✅ Powerful Reducing Agent: Highly efficient for organic synthesis and pharmaceutical applications
✅ Hydrogen-Rich Compound: High gravimetric hydrogen density for energy storage research
✅ Selective Reduction Ability: Converts esters, amides, and nitriles to alcohols and amines
✅ Anhydrous & High-Purity Grades Available: Suitable for moisture-sensitive reactions
Industrial & Laboratory Applications
Organic & Pharmaceutical Synthesis
- Reduction Reactions:
- Converts esters, ketones, and aldehydes to their corresponding alcohols.
- Used for amine and borane complex formation.
- Selective Hydrogenation:
- Efficiently reduces nitriles and imines to primary amines.
Energy Storage & Fuel Cell Research
- Hydrogen Storage Material:
- High hydrogen content (~18.4% by weight) makes it a potential material for hydrogen fuel applications.
- Thermally decomposes to release hydrogen gas under controlled conditions.
Battery & Electrochemical Applications
- Ionic Conductor for Solid-State Batteries:
- Investigated as a lithium-ion conductor in advanced battery systems.
- Electrolyte Component in High-Energy Cells:
- Used in next-generation energy storage technologies.
Handling & Safety Considerations
⚠️ Highly Reactive & Moisture-Sensitive!
- Water Sensitivity: Reacts with water, releasing flammable hydrogen gas (H₂).
- Air Sensitivity: Decomposes upon exposure to moisture, forming lithium hydroxide and borates.
- Handling Precautions:
- Store and handle under anhydrous conditions.
- Use only in a dry, inert atmosphere (glovebox or Schlenk techniques).
Storage & Packaging
- Storage Conditions:
- Keep in sealed containers under dry argon or nitrogen.
- Store in a cool, moisture-free environment away from ignition sources.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and flame-resistant lab coats.
- Use in well-ventilated areas with proper safety protocols.
Available in:
- 1kg sealed moisture-proof cylinder
- Custom purity levels for research and industrial applications
Lithium Borohydride (LiBH₄) is a white crystalline solid known for its strong reducing properties and high hydrogen storage capacity. It is widely used in organic synthesis, fuel cell technology, and battery research. As a powerful reducing agent, LiBH₄ is employed in the selective reduction of carbonyl compounds, esters, and imines. Additionally, its exceptional hydrogen content makes it a promising material for hydrogen storage applications in energy sectors.
