Description

Aluminum Carbide, Al4C3 is an inorganic compound primarily recognized for its role as a solid-state source of methane and as a reactive intermediate in materials synthesis. Its commercial value lies in its ability to serve as a precise carbon donor and reducing agent in high-temperature metallurgical and ceramic processes. This material is essential for manufacturers and research institutions in sectors such as advanced materials development, metal alloy production, and specialized chemical synthesis where controlled carbon introduction is required.

Application

• Methane Generation: Used as a solid, portable source of methane gas (CH₄) upon controlled hydrolysis for laboratory and specialized industrial applications.
• Carbothermic Reduction: Acts as a powerful reducing agent and carbon source in the production of metals and alloys, particularly for refining aluminum and other non-ferrous metals.
• Advanced Ceramics & Cermets: A key precursor for in-situ synthesis of aluminum-containing carbides and composite materials, enhancing hardness and thermal stability.
• Chemical Synthesis: Employed as a reagent in organic and inorganic synthesis for introducing carbide or methylide groups.
• Desulfurization & Deoxidation: Utilized in metallurgical processes to remove sulfur and oxygen impurities from molten metals.
• High-Temperature Brazing: Incorporated into filler materials to improve wetting and joint strength in metal joining applications.
• Research & Development: Serves as a model compound in materials science research for studying carbide chemistry and reaction mechanisms.

Basic Information

Product Name	Aluminum Carbide
CAS No.	12656-43-8
Molecular Formula	Al4C3
Molecular Weight	143.96 g/mol
Synonyms	Aluminum Carbide (Al4C3); Tetraluminum Tricarbide; Aluminum Carbon Alloy; Carbonalum; Methane-forming agent; Aluminium carbide; Aluminum(III) carbide
EINECS	235-076-5

Quality Control

Our Aluminum Carbide is manufactured under controlled conditions to ensure batch-to-batch consistency and high chemical purity. Quality is verified through a series of analytical tests including X-ray diffraction (XRD) for phase identification and chemical assay. We provide comprehensive Certificates of Analysis (COA) with each shipment, detailing purity, particle size distribution, and impurity levels to meet your specific technical requirements.

Storage

Preserve in a tightly closed container, protected from light. Due to its hygroscopic (moisture-sensitive) nature, this product must be stored in a cool, dry place under an inert atmosphere (e.g., argon or nitrogen) to prevent decomposition. The recommended storage temperature is 15-25°C. Keep the container tightly sealed in a dry environment separate from acids and moisture sources.

Specification

Item	Specification
Appearance	Yellow to brown crystalline powder or lumps
Identification (XRD)	Conforms to Al4C3 structure
Assay (Al4C3)	≥ 95.0%
Particle Size (Typical)	< 45 μm (325 mesh) or as requested
Moisture Content	< 0.5% (Karl Fischer)
Metallic Impurities (ICP-OES)	Contact for details

Note: Specifications can be tailored. Please contact us for the detailed technical data sheet of a specific grade.