Mercury (ii) chloride
| Formula | Cl2Hg |
| Chemical formula | HgCl2 |
| Density | 5.44 g/cm3 (20°C) |
| Molar mass | 271.50 g/mol |
| Bulk density | ~2000 kg/m3 |
| CAS number | 7487-94-7 |
| HS Code | 28273980 |
| EC number | 231-299-8 |
| Storage | Without limitation |
| SDS | available |
| RTECS | OV9100000 |
| R phrase | R 28-34-48/24//25-50/53 |
| S phrase | S 36/37/39-45-60-61 |
| Odour | odourless |
| Form | Solid |
| Color | white |
| p H | 3.2 (15g/l 20 °C) |
| Solubility in water | 74 g/l (20°C) |
| Boiling point | 302 °C |
| Melting point | 280.7 °C |
| Vapour pressure | 0.01 Pa |
| Assay | 99.5 – 100.5 | % | |
| Description | Conforms | ||
| Identification | Conforms | ||
| Solubility | Conforms | ||
| Acidity or alkalinity | Conforms | ||
| Appearance of solution | Conforms | ||
| Mercury (I)- chloride | Conforms | ||
| Loss on drying | ≤ | 1 | % |
Mercury(II) chloride is a white crystalline inorganic compound known for its high toxicity and historical use in antiseptics, preservatives, and chemical synthesis.
🏭⚗️ Production
It is typically prepared by reacting elemental mercury with chlorine gas or by treating mercury(I) nitrate or oxide with hydrochloric acid, followed by purification and crystallization to obtain pure mercury(II) chloride.
🔬 Properties
The chemical formula is HgCl₂ with a molar mass of approximately 271.50 g/mol. It appears as white, odorless crystals or powder, is poorly soluble in cold water but more soluble in hot water and alcohol, and sublimes upon heating without melting under normal pressure. The compound is photosensitive and decomposes under strong light or high temperatures.
🧪 Applications
Mercury(II) chloride has been used historically as a disinfectant and antiseptic (commonly known as corrosive sublimate), in the preservation of biological specimens, and in organic synthesis as a catalyst or reagent. It is also used in metallurgy, especially in the extraction of precious metals.
⚠️ Safety
This compound is highly toxic and can be fatal if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. It affects the kidneys and central nervous system and is classified as a cumulative poison. Handling requires strict safety measures including gloves, goggles, and fume hoods. It must be stored in tightly sealed containers, away from light, heat, and incompatible substances such as ammonia or organic materials.
