Lithium iodide

Lithium iodide (chemical formula LiI) is an inorganic compound composed of lithium (Li) and iodine (I), belonging to the alkali metal halides. Below is a detailed introduction to lithium iodide:

Basic Properties

1. Physical Properties:

   - Appearance: White crystalline solid, hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from the air).

   - Melting point: 469°C.

   - Boiling point: 1,170°C.

   - Solubility: Soluble in polar solvents such as water and ethanol; aqueous solutions are neutral or weakly alkaline.

2. Chemical Properties:

   - Exhibits typical ionic compound characteristics but is prone to hydrolysis in moist environments, producing hydroiodic acid (HI) and lithium hydroxide (LiOH).

   - The iodide ion (I⁻) has reducing properties and can be oxidized by strong oxidizing agents to elemental iodine (I₂).

 Main Applications

1. Electrolyte Material:  

   - Used in high-temperature batteries (e.g., lithium-iodine batteries) due to its good ionic conductivity.  

   - Serves as an additive in solid-state batteries or fuel cells.

2. Organic Synthesis:  

   - Acts as a catalyst or iodine source in coupling reactions, addition reactions, etc.

3. Nuclear Industry:  

   - The trihydrate form (LiI·3H₂O) can be used for detecting neutron radiation in nuclear reactors.

4. Pharmaceutical Field:  

   - Historically used as a source of iodine for treating thyroid diseases (now replaced by safer iodides).

Precautions

1. Toxicity:  

   - Lithium iodide is toxic; ingestion or inhalation may pose health risks, and direct contact should be avoided.

2. Storage:  

   - Must be stored sealed in a dry environment to prevent deliquescence and contact with oxidizing agents.

3. Environmental Risks:  

   - Iodide ions may impact aquatic organisms; disposal must comply with regulations.

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