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Lithium aluminum hydride

PubChem CID
28112
Structure
Lithium aluminum hydride_small.png
Molecular Formula
Synonyms
  • Lithium tetrahydridoaluminate
  • Lithium aluminohydride
  • Lithium tetrahydroaluminate
  • lithium;alumanuide
  • LiAlD4
Molecular Weight
38.0 g/mol
Computed by PubChem 2.1 (PubChem release 2021.05.07)
Dates
  • Create:
    2004-09-16
  • Modify:
    2025-01-18
Description
Lithium aluminum hydride appears as a white powder that turns gray on standing. If spread out over a large flat combustible surface, friction can cause ignition. Used to make other chemicals, as a polymerization catalyst, as a hydrogen source, and as a propellant.
Lithium tetrahydroaluminate is a lithium salt.
Lithium aluminium hydride (LAH) is a hydride of lithium and aluminum. It is is a reducing agent used in organic synthesis. Aluminum is the most abundant metal in the earth's crust and is always found combined with other elements such as oxygen, silicon, and fluorine. (L739, L740, L775)
L739: ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (2008). Toxicological profile for aluminum. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp22.html
L740: Wikipedia. Aluminium. Last Updated 16 June 2009. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aluminum
L775: Wikipedia. Lithium aluminiumhydride. Last Updated 7 June 2009. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lithium_aluminium_hydride

1 Structures

1.1 2D Structure

Chemical Structure Depiction
Lithium aluminum hydride.png

1.2 3D Status

Conformer generation is disallowed since MMFF94s unsupported element, mixture or salt

2 Names and Identifiers

2.1 Computed Descriptors

2.1.1 IUPAC Name

lithium;alumanuide
Computed by LexiChem 2.6.6 (PubChem release 2019.06.18)

2.1.2 InChI

InChI=1S/Al.Li.4H/q-1;+1;;;;
Computed by InChI 1.0.5 (PubChem release 2019.06.18)

2.1.3 InChIKey

OCZDCIYGECBNKL-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Computed by InChI 1.0.5 (PubChem release 2019.06.18)

2.1.4 SMILES

[Li+].[AlH4-]
Computed by OEChem 2.3.0 (PubChem release 2024.12.12)

2.2 Molecular Formula

AlH4.Li
LiAlH4
AlH4Li
Computed by PubChem 2.1 (PubChem release 2019.06.18)

2.3 Other Identifiers

2.3.1 CAS

16853-85-3

2.3.2 Deprecated CAS

1035696-44-6, 1097640-73-7, 1097640-76-0, 1302-30-3

2.3.3 European Community (EC) Number

2.3.4 UNII

2.3.5 UN Number

2.3.6 ChEBI ID

2.3.7 DSSTox Substance ID

2.3.8 Wikidata

2.3.9 Wikipedia

2.4 Synonyms

2.4.1 MeSH Entry Terms

  • LiAlD4
  • LiAlH4
  • lithium aluminum deuteride
  • lithium aluminum hydride

2.4.2 Depositor-Supplied Synonyms

3 Chemical and Physical Properties

3.1 Computed Properties

Property Name
Molecular Weight
Property Value
38.0 g/mol
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.1 (PubChem release 2021.05.07)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.6.11 (PubChem release 2019.06.18)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count
Property Value
1
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.6.11 (PubChem release 2019.06.18)
Property Name
Rotatable Bond Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.6.11 (PubChem release 2019.06.18)
Property Name
Exact Mass
Property Value
38.0288420 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.1 (PubChem release 2021.05.07)
Property Name
Monoisotopic Mass
Property Value
38.0288420 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.1 (PubChem release 2021.05.07)
Property Name
Topological Polar Surface Area
Property Value
0 Ų
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.6.11 (PubChem release 2019.06.18)
Property Name
Heavy Atom Count
Property Value
2
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Formal Charge
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Complexity
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.6.11 (PubChem release 2019.06.18)
Property Name
Isotope Atom Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count
Property Value
2
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Compound Is Canonicalized
Property Value
Yes
Reference
Computed by PubChem (release 2010.01.29)

3.2 Experimental Properties

3.2.1 Physical Description

Lithium aluminum hydride appears as a white powder that turns gray on standing. If spread out over a large flat combustible surface, friction can cause ignition. Used to make other chemicals, as a polymerization catalyst, as a hydrogen source, and as a propellant.
Gray to white crystals; [HSDB]

3.2.2 Color / Form

Microcrystalline powder when pure; gray when aluminum impurity present. Monoclinic crystals.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 63
Gray-white monoclinic crystals
Lide, DR (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 81st Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2000, p. 4-68

3.2.3 Odor

None
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.

3.2.4 Melting Point

Decomposes >125 °C
Lide, DR (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 81st Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2000, p. 4-68

3.2.5 Solubility

Solubility (parts/100 parts solvent): 30 (ether); 13 (tetrahydrofuran); 10 (dimethylcellosolve); 2 (dibutyl ether); 0.1 (dioxane).
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 63

3.2.6 Density

0.917 at 59 °F (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float
U.S. Coast Guard. 1999. Chemical Hazard Response Information System (CHRIS) - Hazardous Chemical Data. Commandant Instruction 16465.12C. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
0.92
Lide, DR (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 81st Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2000, p. 4-68

3.2.7 Stability / Shelf Life

Stable in dry air at room temperature.
Lewis, R.J. Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 9th ed. Volumes 1-3. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1996., p. 2062
Sometimes turns gray on standing
Lewis, R.J., Sr (Ed.). Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary. 13th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1997., p. 677
Low melting solids or colorless, volatile liquids. /Alkylaluminum halides/
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 60
Less sensitive than trialkylaminums to oxidation upon exposure to air. /Alkylaluminum halides/
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 60

3.2.8 Decomposition

Decomposes to lithium hydride, aluminum metal and hydrogen above 125 °C without melting.
Lewis, R.J., Sr (Ed.). Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary. 13th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1997., p. 677
Decomposes above 125 °C, slowly loses hydrogen at 120 °C, decomposes in moist air.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 63

3.2.9 Other Experimental Properties

Reacts rapidly with water and alcohols; reduces aldehydes, ketones, acid chlorides and esters to alcohols; reduces nitriles to amines; aromatic nitro compounds to azo-compounds. Does not attack olefinic double bonds unless they are conjugated with a phenyl group and a carbonyl or nitrile group.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 63
Gray when aluminum impurity present
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 63
Stable in dry air at room temperature, decomposes above 125 °C, slowly loses hydrogen at 120 °C, decomposes in moist air, may ignite on grinding in air.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 63
Heat of formation: -116.3 (crystalline) kJ/mol @ 298.15 K; Gibbs energy of formation: -44.7(crystalline) kJ/mol @ 298.15 K; standard molar entropy: 78.7 J/mol K @ 298.15 K; molar heat capacity at constant pressure: 83.2 J/mol K @ 298.15 K
Lide, DR (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 81st Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2000, p. 5-5

3.3 Chemical Classes

Metals -> Metal Hydrides

4 Spectral Information

4.1 IR Spectra

4.1.1 ATR-IR Spectra

Instrument Name
Bio-Rad FTS
Technique
ATR-Neat (DuraSamplIR II)
Source of Spectrum
Forensic Spectral Research
Copyright
Copyright © 2012-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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6 Chemical Vendors

7 Pharmacology and Biochemistry

7.1 MeSH Pharmacological Classification

Reducing Agents
Materials that add an electron to an element or compound, that is, decrease the positiveness of its valence. (From McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific and Technical Terms, 5th ed) (See all compounds classified as Reducing Agents.)

7.2 Metabolism / Metabolites

Aluminum is poorly absorbed following either oral or inhalation exposure and is essentially not absorbed dermally. The bioavailability of aluminum is strongly influenced by the aluminum compound and the presence of dietary constituents which can complex with aluminum and enhance or inhibit its absorption. Aluminum binds to various ligands in the blood and distributes to every organ, with highest concentrations found in bone and lung tissues. In living organisms, aluminum is believed to exist in four different forms: as free ions, as low-molecular-weight complexes, as physically bound macromolecular complexes, and as covalently bound macromolecular complexes. Absorbed aluminum is excreted principally in the urine and, to a lesser extent, in the bile, while unabsorbed aluminum is excreted in the faeces. (L739)
L739: ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (2008). Toxicological profile for aluminum. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp22.html

8 Use and Manufacturing

8.1 Uses

Sources/Uses
Used as a reducing agent, catalyst, and propellant; Used to produce other hydrides; [HSDB]
In preparation of other hydrides
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 63
Reducing agent for over 60 different functional groups, especially for pharmaceutical, perfume, and fine organic chemicals; converts esters, aldehydes and ketones to alcohols and nitriles to amines; source of hydrogen; propellant; catalyst in polymerizations.
Lewis, R.J., Sr (Ed.). Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary. 13th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1997., p. 677
In manufacture of vitamin A, ... anti-histamines and antibiotics
Browning, E. Toxicity of Industrial Metals. 2nd ed. New York: Appleton-Century-Crofts, 1969., p. 201

8.1.1 Use Classification

Hazard Classes and Categories -> Flammable - 2nd degree, Reactive - 2nd degree

8.2 Methods of Manufacturing

Commercial manufacture of lithium aluminum hydride uses the original synthetic method ... addition of a diethyl ether solution of aluminum chloride to a slurry of lithium hydride. ... The stoichiometry (4 mol lithium hydride to 1 mol lithium aluminum hydride) makes this an inherently expensive process, even though high yields of pure product are obtained. For large-scale production, metathesis from sodium aluminum hydride is economically preferred.
Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 4th ed. Volumes 1: New York, NY. John Wiley and Sons, 1991-Present., p. V13 625 (1995)
... By treating lithium hydride with an ether solution of aluminum chloride ... .
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 63

8.3 Formulations / Preparations

98% purity grade
CHEMCYCLOPEDIA 1986 p.186
95-96% purity
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.

8.4 General Manufacturing Information

A plant growth nutrient stimulator is prepd by reducing a plant wax with lithium aluminum hydride in tetrahydrofuran, followed by filtering to obtain the product.
Indian Patent No. 150204 08/14/82 (Hindustan Lever Ltd)

9 Identification

9.1 Analytic Laboratory Methods

... Solutions of lithium aluminum hydride are conveniently analyzed by titration. The lithium aluminum hydride is reacted with an excess of iodine which is then back-titrated with sodium thiosulfate.
Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 6th ed.Vol 1: Federal Republic of Germany: Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. 2003 to Present, p. V16 738 (2003)

10 Safety and Hazards

10.1 Hazards Identification

10.1.1 GHS Classification

Pictogram(s)
Flammable
Corrosive
Signal
Danger
GHS Hazard Statements

H220 (14.1%): Extremely flammable gas [Danger Flammable gases]

H260 (81.7%): In contact with water releases flammable gases which may ignite spontaneously [Danger Substances and mixtures which in contact with water, emit flammable gases]

H314 (100%): Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

H318 (44.3%): Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

Precautionary Statement Codes

P203, P210, P222, P223, P231+P232, P260, P264, P264+P265, P280, P301+P330+P331, P302+P335+P334, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P317, P321, P363, P370+P378, P377, P381, P402+P404, P403, P405, and P501

(The corresponding statement to each P-code can be found at the GHS Classification page.)

ECHA C&L Notifications Summary

Aggregated GHS information provided per 262 reports by companies from 4 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown.

10.1.2 Hazard Classes and Categories

Flam. Gas 1 (14.1%)

Water-react. 1 (81.7%)

Skin Corr. 1A (100%)

Eye Dam. 1 (44.3%)

Flammable - 2nd degree, Reactive - 2nd degree

10.1.3 Health Hazards

Contact of solid with eyes and skin causes severe burns similar to those caused by caustic soda. (USCG, 1999)
U.S. Coast Guard. 1999. Chemical Hazard Response Information System (CHRIS) - Hazardous Chemical Data. Commandant Instruction 16465.12C. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
ERG 2024, Guide 138 (Lithium aluminum hydride, ethereal; Lithium aluminum hydride)

· Inhalation or contact with vapors, substance or decomposition products may cause severe injury or death.

· May produce corrosive solutions on contact with water.

· Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases.

· Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause environmental contamination.

10.1.4 Fire Hazards

Behavior in Fire: Decomposes at 257 °F to form hydrogen gas. The heat generated may cause ignition and/or explosion. (USCG, 1999)
U.S. Coast Guard. 1999. Chemical Hazard Response Information System (CHRIS) - Hazardous Chemical Data. Commandant Instruction 16465.12C. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
ERG 2024, Guide 138 (Lithium aluminum hydride, ethereal; Lithium aluminum hydride)

· Produce flammable gases on contact with water.

· May ignite on contact with water or moist air.

· Some react vigorously or explosively on contact with water.

· May be ignited by heat, sparks or flames.

· May re-ignite after fire is extinguished.

· Some are transported in highly flammable liquids.

· Runoff may create fire or explosion hazard.

10.1.5 Hazards Summary

Contact with solid causes caustic burns to eyes and skin. [CHRIS] Inhalation of high concentrations can cause pulmonary edema; [HSDB] Reacts with moisture on the skin or in the eyes and respiratory tract to form a corrosive alkali solution (lithium hydroxide); [CHEMINFO]

10.1.6 Fire Potential

Evolves hydrogen & ignites on contact with water.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-92
Decomposition begins at 257 °F (125 °C) & releases heat. Combustion may produce irritants & toxic gases.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-92
Flammable, dangerous fire risk. May ignite spontaneously on grinding or rubbing, or from static sparks.
Lewis, R.J., Sr (Ed.). Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary. 13th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1997., p. 677
Lithium aluminum hydride has the additional fire hazard in that it is used in the flammable solvents diethyl ether and tetrahydrofuran.
Clayton, G. D. and F. E. Clayton (eds.). Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology: Volume 2A, 2B, 2C: Toxicology. 3rd ed. New York: John Wiley Sons, 1981-1982., p. 1739
Lithium aluminum hydride should not be used to dry methyl ethers or tetrahydrofuran; fires from this are very common.
National Research Council. Prudent Practices for Handling Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 1981., p. 70
Lithium aluminum hydride with carbon dioxide in sodium bicarbonate at high temp is a fire hazard.
Thompson BT et al; Polyhedron 2 (7): 619-21 (1983)
Can ignite if pulverized even in a dry box.
Sax, N.I. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 6th ed. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1984., p. 1712
Certain polymerization catalysts, such as aluminum alkyls, react & burn violently on contact with water. /Aluminum alkyls/
National Research Council. Prudent Practices for Handling Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 1981., p. 221
Aluminum alkyls are organic aluminum compounds that are highly reactive and dangerous because of spontaneous burning in air. /Aluminum alkyls/
Grant, W.M. Toxicology of the Eye. 3rd ed. Springfield, IL: Charles C. Thomas Publisher, 1986., p. 73
Prophoric material in flammable solvent. Vapors are heavier than air & may travel to a source of ignition & flash back. /Aluminum alkyls/
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-16

10.1.7 Skin, Eye, and Respiratory Irritations

Solid will burn skin and eyes.
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.
The hydrides of ... aluminum ... react with moisture ... and leave behind hydroxide ... the hydrides of ... lithium ... in the presence of moisture are readily converted to hydroxides which are highly irritating to the skin by caustic & thermal action. Similar effects can occur on contact with eyes and resp mucous membranes. /Hydrides/
Sax, N.I. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 6th ed. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1984., p. 1544
Irritating to skin, eyes, and respiratory system.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-92
Irritation of the eyes has been noted in patients who have been exposed /to aluminum alkyls/. /Aluminum alkyls/
Grant, W.M. Toxicology of the Eye. 3rd ed. Springfield, IL: Charles C. Thomas Publisher, 1986., p. 73
May cause minor irritation to lungs or eyes. /Aluminum (dust or powder)/
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 12 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 1997., p. 49-17

10.1.8 EPA Hazardous Waste Number

D003; A waste containing Lithium aluminum hydride may (or may not) be characterized a hazardous waste following testing for the reactivity characteristics as prescribed by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) regulations.

10.2 Safety and Hazard Properties

10.2.1 Explosive Limits and Potential

Lithium aluminum hydride can react explosively with carbon dioxide in sodium bicarbonate at high temp.
Thompson BT et al; Polyhedron 2 (7): 619-21 (1983)
... Hydrides can form dust clouds which can explode due to contact with flames, sparks, heat or oxidizers. /Hydrides/
Sax, N.I. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 6th ed. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1984., p. 1544
The explosive thermal decomposition of the aluminate at 150-170 °C is due to partially hydrolyzed decomposition products.
Bretherick, L. Handbook of Reactive Chemical Hazards. 3rd ed. Boston, MA: Butterworths, 1985., p. 42
...Violently explosive when they come into contact with water. /Aluminum alkyls/
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983., p. 422

10.2.2 NIOSH Recommendations

Recommended Exposure Limit: 10-Hr Time-Weighted Avg: 10 mg/cu m (total). /Aluminum/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety& Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2004-103 (2003).
Recommended Exposure Limit: 10 Hr Time-Weighted Avg: 5 mg/cu m (resp). /Aluminum/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety& Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2004-103 (2003).
Recommended Exposure Limit: 10 Hr Time-Weighted Avg: 2 mg/cu m. /Aluminum (soluble salts and alkyls, as Al)/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety& Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2004-103 (2003).
Recommended Exposure Limit: 10 Hr Time-Weighted Avg: 5 mg/cu m. /Aluminum (pyro powders and welding fumes, as Al)/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety& Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2004-103 (2003).

10.3 First Aid Measures

10.3.1 First Aid

In case of accidental contact with the skin, wipe off excess with a dry paper towel. Wash the affected area with a large volume of water to prevent localized heating of the skin. (USCG, 1999)
U.S. Coast Guard. 1999. Chemical Hazard Response Information System (CHRIS) - Hazardous Chemical Data. Commandant Instruction 16465.12C. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
ERG 2024, Guide 138 (Lithium aluminum hydride, ethereal; Lithium aluminum hydride)

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

· Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination.

· Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely.

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

-- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingestedor inhaled the substance.

-- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).

-- If no pulse detected or no respiratory medical device available, provide continuouscompressions. Conduct a pulse check every two minutes or monitor for any signs of spontaneous respirations.

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

· For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin.

· In case of contact with substance, remove immediately by flushing skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

· Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

· For further assistance, contact your local Poison Control Center.

· Note: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) should be done by trained professionals.

Specific First Aid:

· In case of contact with substance, wipe from skin immediately; flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

In Canada, an Emergency Response Assistance Plan (ERAP) may be required for this product. Please consult the shipping paper and/or the "ERAP" section.

10.4 Fire Fighting

Excerpt from ERG Guide 138 [Substances - Water-Reactive (Emitting Flammable Gases)]:

DO NOT USE WATER OR FOAM.

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, soda ash, lime or sand.

LARGE FIRE: DRY sand, dry chemical, soda ash or lime or withdraw from area and let fire burn. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

FIRE INVOLVING METALS OR POWDERS (ALUMINUM, LITHIUM, MAGNESIUM, ETC.): Use dry chemical, DRY sand, sodium chloride powder, graphite powder or class D extinguishers; in addition, for Lithium you may use Lith-X® powder or copper powder. Also, see ERG Guide 170.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Do not get water inside containers. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames. (ERG, 2024)

10.4.1 Fire Fighting Procedures

Fire must be extinguished with powdered limestone or dry chemical.
Lewis, R.J., Sr (Ed.). Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary. 13th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1997., p. 677
A fire once started cannot be extinguished by ordinary methods; smothering by dolomite powder is recommended.
Clayton, G. D. and F. E. Clayton (eds.). Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology: Volume 2A, 2B, 2C: Toxicology. 3rd ed. New York: John Wiley Sons, 1981-1982., p. 1738
Fires should be extinguished with dry chemicals; "Lith-X," the trademark for a graphite-base dry chemical extinguishing agent, is available for such fires.
Clayton, G. D. and F. E. Clayton (eds.). Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology: Volume 2A, 2B, 2C: Toxicology. 3rd ed. New York: John Wiley Sons, 1981-1982., p. 1739
Sand can be used as a fire extinguisher for lithium aluminum hydride.
Grossman MI; Chem Eng News 59 (41): 57 (1981)
For more Fire Fighting Procedures (Complete) data for LITHIUM ALUMINUM HYDRIDE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

10.4.2 Firefighting Hazards

It /lithium aluminum hydride/ reacts with water to form lithium hydroxide, a corrosive material, aluminum hydroxide and hydrogen, a flammable gas. The heat of this reaction may be sufficient to ignite the hydrogen. The lithium and aluminum hydroxides are corrosive.
Association of American Railroads/Bureau of Explosives; Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads. Pueblo, CO. 2002., p. 557

10.5 Accidental Release Measures

Public Safety: ERG 2024, Guide 138 (Lithium aluminum hydride, ethereal; Lithium aluminum hydride)

· CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper. If shipping paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

· Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.

Spill or Leak: ERG 2024, Guide 138 (Lithium aluminum hydride, ethereal; Lithium aluminum hydride)

· ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area.

· Do not touch or walk through spilled material.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

· Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material.

· DO NOT GET WATER on spilled substance or inside containers.

Small Spill

· Cover with DRY earth, DRY sand or other non-combustible material followed with plastic sheet to minimize spreading or contact with rain.

· Dike for later disposal; do not apply water unless directed to do so.

Powder Spill

· Cover powder spill with plastic sheet or tarp to minimize spreading and keep powder dry.

· DO NOT CLEAN-UP OR DISPOSE OF, EXCEPT UNDER SUPERVISION OF A SPECIALIST.

10.5.1 Isolation and Evacuation

Excerpt from ERG Guide 138 [Substances - Water-Reactive (Emitting Flammable Gases)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet).

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Evacuation: ERG 2024, Guide 138 (Lithium aluminum hydride, ethereal; Lithium aluminum hydride)

Immediate precautionary measure

· Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

Large Spill

· Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet).

Fire

· If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.

10.5.2 Disposal Methods

Aluminum compounds are treated under anhydrous conditions to prevent violent reactions, recover solvent, and form Al compounds suitable for landfill by reaction with anhydrous hydrolysis agent, eg calcium hydroxide. /Aluminum compounds/
Lee TE; Disposal of Aluminum-Containing Waste Materials, US Patent Number 4018867 4/19/77 (ETHYL CORP)
SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational exposure or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic, and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.

10.5.3 Preventive Measures

Burning lithium aluminum hydride is not extinguished by nitrogen; therefore, for large-scale utilization of lithium aluminum hydride, use of an inert gas such as argon is necessry to prevent a potentially hazardous situation.
Metts L; Chem Eng News 59 (31): 3 (1981)
The principal physical property of lithium hydrides important to their safe handling is the large amount of hydrogen contained in a relatively small volume. Two g of lithium hydride treated with water will liberate 200 cu ft of hydrogen. ... In the handling of lithium hydrides, water in any form must be eliminated. ... Chief hazards in handling are dust production, static electricity, and fire. /Lithium hydrides/
Clayton, G. D. and F. E. Clayton (eds.). Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology: Volume 2A, 2B, 2C: Toxicology. 3rd ed. New York: John Wiley Sons, 1981-1982., p. 1738
Care is necessary in handling ... . A rubber mallet is recommended for /pulverizing instead of a mortar and pestle/.
Bretherick, L. Handbook of Reactive Chemical Hazards. 3rd ed. Boston, MA: Butterworths, 1985., p. 42
Personnel protection: Avoid breathing dusts, and fumes from burning material. ... Do not handle broken packages unless wearing appropriate personal protective equipment. Wash away any material which may have contacted the body with copious amounts of water or soap and water.
Association of American Railroads/Bureau of Explosives; Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads. Pueblo, CO. 2002., p. 557
For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for LITHIUM ALUMINUM HYDRIDE (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

10.6 Handling and Storage

10.6.1 Nonfire Spill Response

Excerpt from ERG Guide 138 [Substances - Water-Reactive (Emitting Flammable Gases)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material. DO NOT GET WATER on spilled substance or inside containers.

SMALL SPILL: Cover with DRY earth, DRY sand or other non-combustible material followed with plastic sheet to minimize spreading or contact with rain. Dike for later disposal; do not apply water unless directed to do so.

POWDER SPILL: Cover powder spill with plastic sheet or tarp to minimize spreading and keep powder dry. DO NOT CLEAN-UP OR DISPOSE OF, EXCEPT UNDER SUPERVISION OF A SPECIALIST. (ERG, 2024)

10.6.2 Storage Conditions

Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated location. Separate from ketones, aldehydes, nitrogenous organic compounds.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-92
Extremely reactive with air, moisture and compounds containing active hydrogen and therefore must be kept under a blanket of inert gas. /Aluminum alkyls/
International Labour Office. Encyclopaedia of Occupational Health and Safety. 4th edition, Volumes 1-4 1998. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1998., p. 62.3
In general, materials ... toxic as stored or which can decompose into toxic components ... Should be stored in cool ... ventilated place, out of ... sun, away from ... fire hazard ... be periodically inspected and monitored. Incompatible materials should be isolated ...
Sax, N.I. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 4th ed. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1975., p. 726
All possibility of contact with water must be avoided. Solution containing not more than 20% of these compounds in non-reactive solvents, however, can be handled without risk of spontaneous ignition. /Aluminum alkyls/
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983., p. 422
For more Storage Conditions (Complete) data for LITHIUM ALUMINUM HYDRIDE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

10.7 Exposure Control and Personal Protection

Protective Clothing: ERG 2024, Guide 138 (Lithium aluminum hydride, ethereal; Lithium aluminum hydride)

· Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

· Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE.

· Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection.

10.7.1 Threshold Limit Values (TLV)

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 1 mg/cu m, respirable fraction. /Aluminum metal and insouble compounds/
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists TLVs and BEIs. Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. Cincinnati, OH, 2008, p. 11
Excursion Limit Recommendation: Excursions in worker exposure levels may exceed 3 times the TLV-TWA for no more than a total of 30 minutes during a work day, and under no circumstances should they exceed 5 times the TLV-TWA, provided that the TLV-TWA is not exceeded. /Aluminum metal and insouble compounds/
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists TLVs and BEIs. Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. Cincinnati, OH, 2008, p. 5

10.7.2 Emergency Response Planning Guidelines

Emergency Response: ERG 2024, Guide 138 (Lithium aluminum hydride, ethereal; Lithium aluminum hydride)

· DO NOT USE WATER OR FOAM.

Small Fire

· Dry chemical, soda ash, lime or sand.

Large Fire

· DRY sand, dry chemical, soda ash or lime or withdraw from area and let fire burn.

· If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

Fire Involving Metals or Powders (Aluminum, Lithium, Magnesium, etc.)

· Use dry chemical, DRY sand, sodium chloride powder, graphite powder or class D extinguishers; in addition, for Lithium you may use Lith-X® powder or copper powder. Also, see GUIDE 170.

Fire Involving Tanks, Rail Tank Cars or Highway Tanks

· Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles.

· Do not get water inside containers.

· Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.

· Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank.

· ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames.

10.7.3 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Rubberized gloves; full face shield. (USCG, 1999)
U.S. Coast Guard. 1999. Chemical Hazard Response Information System (CHRIS) - Hazardous Chemical Data. Commandant Instruction 16465.12C. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
Rubberized gloves; full face shield.
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.
Wear special protective clothing & positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-92
Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact. /Aluminum (soluble salts and alkyls, as Al/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety& Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2004-103 (2003).
Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact. /Aluminum (soluble salts and alkyls, as Al)/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety& Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2004-103 (2003).
Protective clothing and a high standard of training in the necessary precautionary measures are essential for the handling of the materials. /Aluminum alkyls/
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Volumes I and II. New York: McGraw-Hill Book Co., 1971., p. 271

10.8 Stability and Reactivity

10.8.1 Air and Water Reactions

Reacts with water vigorously attaining incandescence and ignition of evolved hydrogen [Kelen, Cahiers, 1977, (86), 100]. Reactions with water or moist air (or heated air) are violent and may be explosive [Schmidt, D.L., et al. Inorg. Synth. 1973. p. 14, 51].

10.8.2 Reactive Group

Metal Hydrides, Metal Alkyls, Metal Aryls, and Silanes

10.8.3 Reactivity Alerts

Strong Reducing Agent

Known Catalytic Activity

Water-Reactive

Air-Reactive

10.8.3.1 CSL Reaction Information
1 of 2
CSL No
Reactants/Reagents
Silicon tetrachloride + LITHIUM ALUMINUM HYDRIDE
Warning Message
LiAlH4 reduction of SiCl4 releases silane
GHS Category
Explosive,Flammable,Gas Emitter,Pyrophoric
Reaction Class
Reduction
Additional Information
We would like to report a potential hazard for the synthetic procedure outlined in Physical Review B (1999, 60, 2704). This contribution is widely referenced and describes a procedure for preparing hydride surface-terminated silicon nanoparticles via lithium aluminum hydride reduction of SiCl4 in micellular tetrahydrofuran (THF) solutions. The authors incorrectly report that this reaction produces hydrogen gas that is presumably released into the "controlled-atmosphere glove box." There is no mention of pyrophoric by-products. We recently attempted to reproduce this reported procedure and performed all our steps on a double-vacuum manifold equipped with argon working gas and an oil bubbler. We used standard experimental techniques for handling air-sensitive compounds. With our experimental design, gas by-products are carried out of the reaction vessel by flowing working gas and are released from the oil bubbler into the ambient atmosphere of the fume hood. From the article cited, there is no reason to expect any adverse events from the procedural difference of interchanging a glove box for a double manifold. The release of hydrogen gas from the oil bubbler into the atmosphere should have been inconsequential. Furthermore, synthetic chemists well-versed in manipulating air-sensitive compounds often find a double manifold more effective than using a glove box. Upon addition of a THF LiAlH4 solution to a THF solution of SiCl4, we observed vigorous bubbling consistent with the literature report. To our surprise, a bright orange flame was released from our oil bubbler. It was impossible for the authors of the aforementioned contribution to make this observation because a gaseous reaction by-product was doubtless captured by the glove box circulation system and was never released into the atmosphere. Fortunately, no one was injured when this "controlled burn" occurred in our laboratory. Subsequent literature searches have revealed that the gas produced is incorrectly identified as hydrogen in the 1999 reference. In fact, the reaction LiAlH4 + SiCl4 t LiCl + AlCl3 + SiH4 occurs in ethereal solutions and has been known for some time to produce pyrophoric silane (J. Am. Chem. Soc. 1947, 69, 1199). While we did isolate some Si nanoparticles from the reaction mixture and confirmed that they were indeed hydride-terminated, we caution other researchers from carrying out this reaction without exercising extreme care.
Reference Source
C&EN
Modified Date
5/31/18
Create Date
2/22/18
2 of 2
CSL No
Reactants/Reagents
Lithium aluminum hydride + Friction
Warning Message
Lithium aluminum hydride (LiAlH4) is well-known and widely used as a highly reactive reagent that reduces a wide variety of substances. Given its high reactivity profile, it has also been involved in numerous incidents causing fires small and large. Several research laboratory fires initiated by pulverizing LiAlH4 pellets have brought attention to friction-induced ignition, deficiencies in vendor-supplied Safety Data Sheets, and challenges to researcher training that involve known─but specific─conditions that are incompatible with reactive reagents.
Reaction Scale
Medium (up to 100g)
Reference Source
Literature Reference
Modified Date
07/05/2022
Create Date
07/05/2022

10.8.4 Reactivity Profile

LITHIUM ALUMINUM HYDRIDE is a powerful reducing agent. React violently on contact with many oxidizing agents. Ignites by friction, especially if powdered. Reacts vigorously with hydroxy compounds such as water, alcohols, carboxylic acids [Mellor 2 Supp. 2:142. 1961]. Caused a violent explosion when used to dry diethylene glycol dimethyl ether: Ignition may have been caused by heat from reaction with impurity water or perhaps decomposition of peroxides in the ether. About 75% of the ether had been removed when the explosion occurred [MCA Case History 1494. 1968]. Reduces carbon dioxide or sodium hydrogen carbonate to methane and ethane at elevated temperatures. These flammable or explosive gases can form when CO2 extinguishers are used to fight hydride fires. Forms explosive complexes with ether, dimethylamine and various tetrazoles. Tetrazoles include, 2-methyl, 2-ethyl, 5-ethyl, 2-methyl-5-vinyl, 5-amino-2-ethyl [US Pat. 3 396 170, 1968].

10.8.5 Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities

Lewis, R.J. Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 9th ed. Volumes 1-3. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1996., p. 2062
Lithium aluminum hydride: Strong reducing agent and water reactive substance. Extremely reactive: Do not mix with any chemical or waste material (from table).
Ecology and Environment Inc. Toxic Substance Storage Tank Containment. Park Ridge, NJ: Noyes Publications, 1985., p. 230
Incompatible with bis(2-methoxy-ethyl) ether, carbon dioxide, boron trifluoride, diethyl etherate, dibenzoyl peroxide, 3,5-dibromocyclopentene, 1,2-dimethoxy ethane, ethyl acetate, fluoro amides, pyridine, and tetrahydrofuran.
Lewis, R.J. Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 9th ed. Volumes 1-3. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1996., p. 2062
Extremely reactive with air, moisture, and compounds containing active hydrogen... /Alkyl aluminum compounds/
International Labour Office. Encyclopaedia of Occupational Health and Safety. 4th edition, Volumes 1-4 1998. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1998., p. 63.2
Reacts violently with a broad range of materials including air & water. /Aluminum alkyls/
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-17

10.9 Transport Information

10.9.1 DOT Emergency Guidelines

/GUIDE 138: SUBSTANCES - WATER-REACTIVE (EMITTING FLAMMABLE GASES)/ Fire or Explosion: Produce flammable gases on contact with water. May ignite on contact with water or moist air. Some react vigorously or explosively on contact with water. May be ignited by heat, sparks or flames. May re-ignite after fire is extinguished. Some are transported in highly flammable liquids. Runoff may create fire or explosion hazard. /Lithium aluminum hydride; Lithium aluminum hydride, ethereal/
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2004 Emergency Response Guidebook. A Guide book for First Responders During the Initial Phase of a Dangerous Goods/Hazardous Materials Incident. Washington, D.C. 2004
/GUIDE 138: SUBSTANCES - WATER-REACTIVE (EMITTING FLAMMABLE GASES)/ Health: Inhalation or contact with vapors, substance, or decomposition products may cause severe injury or death. May produce corrosive solutions on contact with water. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control may cause pollution. /Lithium aluminum hydride; Lithium aluminum hydride, ethereal/
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2004 Emergency Response Guidebook. A Guide book for First Responders During the Initial Phase of a Dangerous Goods/Hazardous Materials Incident. Washington, D.C. 2004
/GUIDE 138: SUBSTANCES - WATER-REACTIVE (EMITTING FLAMMABLE GASES)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number ... . As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meter (75 feet) for solids. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas. Ventilate the area before entry. /Lithium aluminum hydride; Lithium aluminum hydride, ethereal/
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2004 Emergency Response Guidebook. A Guide book for First Responders During the Initial Phase of a Dangerous Goods/Hazardous Materials Incident. Washington, D.C. 2004
/GUIDE 138: SUBSTANCES - WATER-REACTIVE (EMITTING FLAMMABLE GASES)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer. It may provide little or no thermal protection. Structural firefighters' protective clothing will only provide limited protection in fire situations ONLY; it is not effective in spill situations where direct contact with the substance is possible. /Lithium aluminum hydride; Lithium aluminum hydride, ethereal/
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2004 Emergency Response Guidebook. A Guide book for First Responders During the Initial Phase of a Dangerous Goods/Hazardous Materials Incident. Washington, D.C. 2004
For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for LITHIUM ALUMINUM HYDRIDE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

10.9.2 Shipping Name / Number DOT/UN/NA/IMO

UN 1410; Lithium aluminum hydride
UN 1411; Lithium aluminum hydride, ethereal
IMO 4.3; Lithium aluminum hydride, ethereal; lithium aluminum hydride

10.9.3 Standard Transportation Number

49 164 20; Lithium aluminum hydride
49 164 20; Lithium aluminum hydride, ethereal

10.9.4 Shipment Methods and Regulations

No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./
49 CFR 171.2; U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of February 15, 2006: https://www.ecfr.gov
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous materials.
International Air Transport Association. Dangerous Goods Regulations. 47th Edition. Montreal, Quebec Canada. 2006., p. 211
The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be used when shipping any substance or article.
International Maritime Organization. International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code. London, UK. 2004., p. 64

10.9.5 DOT Label

Dangerous When Wet

10.10 Regulatory Information

The Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals
Chemical: Aluminate(1-), tetrahydro-, lithium, (T-4)-
REACH Registered Substance
New Zealand EPA Inventory of Chemical Status
Aluminate(1-), tetrahydro-, lithium, (T-4)-: HSNO Approval: HSR001279 Approved with controls

10.10.1 Federal Drinking Water Guidelines

EPA 50-200 ug/l /Aluminum/
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present

10.10.2 State Drinking Water Standards

(CA) CALIFORNIA 1000 ug/l /Aluminum/
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present

10.10.3 State Drinking Water Guidelines

(AZ) ARIZONA 73 ug/l /Aluminum/
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present
(CA) CALIFORNIA 200 ug/l /Aluminum/
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present
(ME) MAINE 1430 ug/l /Aluminum/
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present

10.10.4 RCRA Requirements

D003; A solid waste containing Lithium aluminum hydride may become characterized as a hazardous waste when subjected to testing for reactivity as stipulated in 40 CFR 261.23, and if so characterized, must be managed as a hazardous waste.
40 CFR 261.32; U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of December 15, 2004: https://www.ecfr.gov

10.11 Other Safety Information

Chemical Assessment

IMAP assessments - Aluminate(1-), tetrahydro-, lithium, (T-4)-: Human health tier I assessment

IMAP assessments - Aluminate(1-), tetrahydro-, lithium, (T-4)-: Environment tier I assessment

11 Toxicity

11.1 Toxicological Information

11.1.1 Toxicity Summary

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: Lithium aluminum hydride is a gray-white monoclinic crystalline material which is soluble in ether, tetrahydrofuran, dimethylcellosolve; partially soluble in dibutyl ether and insoluble in dioxane. This chemical is an intermediate in the production of other hydrides. It is used as a reducing agent for over 60 different functional groups, especially for pharmaceutical, perfume, and fine organic chemicals; converts esters, aldehydes and ketones to alcohols and nitriles to amines; source of hydrogen; propellant; catalyst in polymerizations. HUMAN EXPOSURE AND TOXICITY: Causes severe eye and skin burns. It may be harmful if inhaled. This chemical is irritating to skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Symptoms of overexposure include spasms, inflammation and edema of larynx, and bronchi, pulmonary edema, coughing, wheezing, laryngitis, nausea, and vomiting. Solid will burn skin and eyes. The hydrides of aluminum can react with moisture and leave behind hydroxide. The hydrides of lithium in the presence of moisture are readily converted to hydroxides which are highly irritating to the skin by caustic and thermal action. Similar effects can occur on contact with eyes and respiratory mucous membranes. ANIMAL STUDIES: No animal studies could be located.
The main target organs of aluminum are the central nervous system and bone. Aluminum binds with dietary phosphorus and impairs gastrointestinal absorption of phosphorus. The decreased phosphate body burden results in osteomalacia (softening of the bones due to defective bone mineralization) and rickets. Aluminum's neurotoxicity is believed to involve several mechanisms. Changes in cytoskeletal protein functions as a results of altered phosphorylation, proteolysis, transport, and synthesis are believed to be one cause. Aluminum may induce neurobehavioral effects by affecting permeability of the blood-brain barrier, cholinergic activity, signal transduction pathways, lipid peroxidation, and impair neuronal glutamate nitric oxide-cyclic GMP pathway, as well as interfere with metabolism of essential trace elements because of similar coordination chemistries and consequent competitive interactions. It has been suggested that aluminum's interaction with estrogen receptors increases the expression of estrogen-related genes and thereby contributes to the progression of breast cancer (A235), but studies have not been able to establish a clear link between aluminum and increased risk of breast cancer (A15468). Certain aluminum salts induce immune responses by activating inflammasomes. (L739, A235, A236)
A15468: Willhite CC, Karyakina NA, Yokel RA, Yenugadhati N, Wisniewski TM, Arnold IM, Momoli F, Krewski D: Systematic review of potential health risks posed by pharmaceutical, occupational and consumer exposures to metallic and nanoscale aluminum, aluminum oxides, aluminum hydroxide and its soluble salts. Crit Rev Toxicol. 2014 Oct;44 Suppl 4:1-80. doi: 10.3109/10408444.2014.934439. PMID:25233067
A235: Darbre PD: Metalloestrogens: an emerging class of inorganic xenoestrogens with potential to add to the oestrogenic burden of the human breast. J Appl Toxicol. 2006 May-Jun;26(3):191-7. PMID:16489580
A236: Aimanianda V, Haensler J, Lacroix-Desmazes S, Kaveri SV, Bayry J: Novel cellular and molecular mechanisms of induction of immune responses by aluminum adjuvants. Trends Pharmacol Sci. 2009 Jun;30(6):287-95. doi: 10.1016/j.tips.2009.03.005. Epub 2009 May 11. PMID:19439372
L739: ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (2008). Toxicological profile for aluminum. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp22.html

11.1.2 Carcinogen Classification

Carcinogen Classification
Not listed by IARC. IARC classified aluminum production as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1), but did not implicate aluminum itself as a human carcinogen. (L135) A link between use of aluminum-containing antiperspirants and increased risk of breast cancer has been proposed (A235), but studies have not been able to establish a clear link (A15468).

11.1.3 Health Effects

Aluminum targets the nervous system and causes decreased nervous system performance and is associated with altered function of the blood-brain barrier. The accumulation of aluminum in the body may cause bone or brain diseases. High levels of aluminum have been linked to Alzheimer's disease. A small percentage of people are allergic to aluminium and experience contact dermatitis, digestive disorders, vomiting or other symptoms upon contact or ingestion of products containing aluminium. (L739, L740)
L739: ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (2008). Toxicological profile for aluminum. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp22.html
L740: Wikipedia. Aluminium. Last Updated 16 June 2009. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aluminum

11.1.4 Exposure Routes

Oral (L739) ; inhalation (L739)
L739: ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (2008). Toxicological profile for aluminum. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp22.html

11.1.5 Symptoms

Inhalating aluminum dust causes coughing and abnormal chest X-rays. A small percentage of people are allergic to aluminium and experience contact dermatitis, digestive disorders, vomiting or other symptoms upon contact or ingestion of products containing aluminium. (L739, L740)
L739: ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (2008). Toxicological profile for aluminum. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp22.html
L740: Wikipedia. Aluminium. Last Updated 16 June 2009. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aluminum

11.1.6 Adverse Effects

Neurotoxin - Other CNS neurotoxin

Nephrotoxin - The chemical is potentially toxic to the kidneys in the occupational setting.

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

Toxic Pneumonitis - Inflammation of the lungs induced by inhalation of metal fumes or toxic gases and vapors.

11.1.7 Toxicity Data

LC50 (mammal) = 70 mg/m3

11.1.8 Minimum Risk Level

Intermediate Oral: 1.0 mg/kg/day (L134) Chronic Oral: 1.0 mg/kg/day (L134)
L134: ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (2001). Minimal Risk Levels (MRLs) for Hazardous Substances. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/mrls/

11.1.9 Treatment

EYES: irrigate opened eyes for several minutes under running water. INGESTION: do not induce vomiting. Rinse mouth with water (never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person). Seek immediate medical advice. SKIN: should be treated immediately by rinsing the affected parts in cold running water for at least 15 minutes, followed by thorough washing with soap and water. If necessary, the person should shower and change contaminated clothing and shoes, and then must seek medical attention. INHALATION: supply fresh air. If required provide artificial respiration.

11.1.10 Human Toxicity Excerpts

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ Contamination of aluminum with lithium was suggested as a mechanism for encephalopathy because psychotic patients treated with lithium salts exhibit tremors, early or after several years. Lithium may be a neurotoxin alone, as suggested by the observation that volunteers given lithium carbonate in doses of 1225 +/- 300 mg/day for 7 days when tested in the company of distractors made more errors recalling words than when they received a placebo. Although lithium and aluminum may act similarly, more studies are needed to determine whether lithium contamination contributes to occupational aluminum toxicity. /Lithium contaminated aluminum/
Rom, W.N. (ed.). Environmental and Occupational Medicine. 2nd ed. Boston, MA: Little, Brown and Company, 1992., p. 471
/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Causes severe eye and skin burns. May be harmful if inhaled. Irritating to skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Symptoms of overexposure include spasms, inflammation and edema of larynx, and bronchi, pulmonary edema, coughing, wheezing, laryngitis, nausea, and vomiting.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-92
/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ From an industrial point of view lithium itself and its salts present no hazard but lithium hydride and its derivatives lithium tetrahydroaluminate and lithium tetrahydroborate are corrosive and irritant.
Seiler, H.G., H. Sigel and A. Sigel (eds.). Handbook on the Toxicity of Inorganic Compounds. New York, NY: Marcel Dekker, Inc. 1988., p. 384

12 Literature

12.1 Consolidated References

12.2 NLM Curated PubMed Citations

12.3 Springer Nature References

12.4 Thieme References

12.5 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Literature

12.6 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Literature

12.7 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Literature

13 Patents

13.1 Depositor-Supplied Patent Identifiers

13.2 WIPO PATENTSCOPE

13.3 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Patents

13.4 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Patents

13.5 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Patents

14 Interactions and Pathways

14.1 Chemical-Target Interactions

15 Classification

15.1 MeSH Tree

15.2 ChEBI Ontology

15.3 UN GHS Classification

15.4 NORMAN Suspect List Exchange Classification

15.5 EPA DSSTox Classification

15.6 MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology

16 Information Sources

  1. Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS)
    Aluminate(1-), tetrahydro-, lithium, (T-4)-
    https://services.industrialchemicals.gov.au/search-assessments/
    Aluminate(1-), tetrahydro-, lithium, (T-4)-
    https://services.industrialchemicals.gov.au/search-inventory/
  2. CAMEO Chemicals
    LICENSE
    CAMEO Chemicals and all other CAMEO products are available at no charge to those organizations and individuals (recipients) responsible for the safe handling of chemicals. However, some of the chemical data itself is subject to the copyright restrictions of the companies or organizations that provided the data.
    https://cameochemicals.noaa.gov/help/reference/terms_and_conditions.htm?d_f=false
  3. CAS Common Chemistry
    LICENSE
    The data from CAS Common Chemistry is provided under a CC-BY-NC 4.0 license, unless otherwise stated.
    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
  4. ChemIDplus
  5. EPA DSSTox
    CompTox Chemicals Dashboard Chemical Lists
    https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/chemical-lists/
  6. European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)
    LICENSE
    Use of the information, documents and data from the ECHA website is subject to the terms and conditions of this Legal Notice, and subject to other binding limitations provided for under applicable law, the information, documents and data made available on the ECHA website may be reproduced, distributed and/or used, totally or in part, for non-commercial purposes provided that ECHA is acknowledged as the source: "Source: European Chemicals Agency, http://echa.europa.eu/". Such acknowledgement must be included in each copy of the material. ECHA permits and encourages organisations and individuals to create links to the ECHA website under the following cumulative conditions: Links can only be made to webpages that provide a link to the Legal Notice page.
    https://echa.europa.eu/web/guest/legal-notice
    Lithium tetrahydridoaluminate
    https://chem.echa.europa.eu/100.037.146
  7. FDA Global Substance Registration System (GSRS)
    LICENSE
    Unless otherwise noted, the contents of the FDA website (www.fda.gov), both text and graphics, are not copyrighted. They are in the public domain and may be republished, reprinted and otherwise used freely by anyone without the need to obtain permission from FDA. Credit to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as the source is appreciated but not required.
    https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/about-website/website-policies#linking
  8. Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
  9. New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority (EPA)
    LICENSE
    This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International licence.
    https://www.epa.govt.nz/about-this-site/general-copyright-statement/
  10. NJDOH RTK Hazardous Substance List
  11. Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
  12. Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
    LICENSE
    Copyright (c) 2022 Haz-Map(R). All rights reserved. Unless otherwise indicated, all materials from Haz-Map are copyrighted by Haz-Map(R). No part of these materials, either text or image may be used for any purpose other than for personal use. Therefore, reproduction, modification, storage in a retrieval system or retransmission, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical or otherwise, for reasons other than personal use, is strictly prohibited without prior written permission.
    https://haz-map.com/About
    Lithium aluminum hydride
    https://haz-map.com/Agents/1501
  13. ChEBI
  14. Toxin and Toxin Target Database (T3DB)
    LICENSE
    T3DB is offered to the public as a freely available resource. Use and re-distribution of the data, in whole or in part, for commercial purposes requires explicit permission of the authors and explicit acknowledgment of the source material (T3DB) and the original publication.
    http://www.t3db.ca/downloads
    Lithium aluminium hydride
    http://www.t3db.ca/toxins/T3D1503
  15. Pistoia Alliance Chemical Safety Library
    Silicon tetrachloride + LITHIUM ALUMINUM HYDRIDE
    https://safescience.cas.org/
  16. SpectraBase
  17. Springer Nature
  18. Thieme Chemistry
    LICENSE
    The Thieme Chemistry contribution within PubChem is provided under a CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 license, unless otherwise stated.
    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
  19. Wikidata
  20. Wikipedia
  21. PubChem
  22. Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)
    LICENSE
    Works produced by the U.S. government are not subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any such works found on National Library of Medicine (NLM) Web sites may be freely used or reproduced without permission in the U.S.
    https://www.nlm.nih.gov/copyright.html
  23. GHS Classification (UNECE)
  24. NORMAN Suspect List Exchange
    LICENSE
    Data: CC-BY 4.0; Code (hosted by ECI, LCSB): Artistic-2.0
    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
    NORMAN Suspect List Exchange Classification
    https://www.norman-network.com/nds/SLE/
  25. MolGenie
    MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology
    https://github.com/MolGenie/ontology/
  26. PATENTSCOPE (WIPO)
CONTENTS