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When a synthesis demands uncompromising reduction strength, chemists still reach for Lithium Aluminum Hydride. Its reliability, reactivity, and versatility in transforming complex molecules into useful intermediates have made it an enduring favorite in both research and industrial laboratories. From small-scale academic synthesis to large-scale pharmaceutical production, LAH remains a cornerstone reagent for reduction chemistry. Gansu Junmao New Material Technology Co., Ltd. continues to provide high-quality LAH products with strict quality control and tailored packaging, supporting customers around the world with consistent performance and trusted supply. In today’s chemical industry, where reproducibility and safety are paramount, Junmao’s precision manufacturing process ensures that every batch of LAH performs exactly as expected—powerful, consistent, and ready for demanding applications.
Lithium Aluminum Hydride, commonly known as LAH, is a powerful inorganic compound with the chemical formula LiAlH₄. It appears as a fine white crystalline powder and is known for its strong reducing ability. LAH is insoluble in hydrocarbons but dissolves readily in ether and tetrahydrofuran (THF), where it forms reactive solutions suitable for a wide range of organic reductions. Structurally, it contains a complex aluminum-hydride anion (AlH₄⁻) paired with a lithium cation, which stabilizes the overall structure while allowing reactive hydride transfer during chemical transformations.
Since its discovery in the 1940s, Lithium Aluminum Hydride has been a game-changer for synthetic chemistry. It provides a selective and efficient way to convert oxygen- or nitrogen-containing functional groups into more reduced forms, making it indispensable in producing alcohols, amines, and hydrocarbons from various precursors. LAH is not only known for its power but also for its reliability—when other reagents fail, LAH often succeeds. This combination of strength and dependability has kept it in use for over seven decades, despite the introduction of newer hydride reagents.
LAH acts as a source of hydride ions (H⁻), which attack electrophilic centers in organic molecules such as carbonyl groups or nitriles. Its high reactivity allows it to reduce even stable compounds that other hydrides like sodium borohydride (NaBH₄) cannot.
During a typical reaction, the hydride ion from LAH attacks the carbon atom of a polar double bond, forming a new bond between hydrogen and carbon, while breaking the original π-bond of the carbonyl group. This results in intermediate aluminum complexes that, after hydrolysis, yield the reduced organic product—often an alcohol or amine.
Esters to Alcohols:
LAH efficiently reduces esters to two molecules of alcohol.
Example:
CH₃COOCH₃ + 4[H] → CH₃CH₂OH + CH₃OH
Amides to Amines:
Secondary amides are converted to secondary amines, and primary amides to primary amines.
Example:
RCONH₂ + 4[H] → RCH₂NH₂ + H₂O
Nitriles to Primary Amines:
RCN + 4[H] → RCH₂NH₂
Epoxides and Halides:
LAH can open epoxide rings and reduce alkyl halides to alkanes, making it a universal tool for forming C–H bonds from a range of precursors.
This versatility has allowed LAH to maintain its reputation as one of the most potent and broadly applicable reducing agents available to chemists today.
In laboratory research, LAH is prized for its selectivity and strength. Academic and pharmaceutical chemists use it to synthesize alcohols, amines, and intermediates that cannot be accessed by milder reducing agents. It is especially valued in multi-step synthesis, where precise control over reduction stages can determine overall yield and purity.
In industrial settings, Lithium Aluminum Hydride plays a key role in large-scale reductions for fine chemicals, agrochemicals, and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). It is also used in the production of specialty polymers, flavor and fragrance intermediates, and electronic materials where precise hydrogenation steps are critical.
Beyond organic synthesis, LAH finds application in the preparation of metal alloys, particularly aluminum and lithium-based materials, where it acts as both a reducing and hydrogen source. The reagent’s high hydrogen density has also drawn attention in research areas related to hydrogen storage and energy materials. This means LAH is not only a tool for making molecules but also a potential contributor to the development of sustainable energy technologies.
Despite its usefulness, LAH is highly reactive and must be handled with extreme care. Contact with water or alcohol generates flammable hydrogen gas and heat, posing fire and explosion hazards.
Storage: LAH should be kept in tightly sealed containers under an inert atmosphere, away from moisture, acids, and oxidizing agents. Common storage solvents include dry ether or THF.
Handling: Work should be conducted under an inert gas (nitrogen or argon) in a dry glove box or well-ventilated fume hood. Avoid contact with skin and eyes, as LAH reacts violently with moisture.
Quenching Procedure: To safely destroy residual LAH after a reaction, gradual quenching is essential. First, the mixture should be cooled, then a small amount of an inert solvent (such as ethyl acetate) added, followed by slow addition of water or dilute sodium hydroxide. This step must be done carefully to prevent rapid hydrogen evolution.
Emergency Steps: In case of exposure, immediately flush with copious water (if safe to do so) and seek medical attention. Fires should be controlled with Class D extinguishers—never with water.
The key to working safely with LAH lies in understanding its behavior and respecting its reactivity. Proper storage, clean workspace conditions, and well-trained personnel are crucial to preventing accidents and ensuring reliable reaction outcomes.
Chemists value consistency and quality above all when working with reactive reagents. Key specifications for Lithium Aluminum Hydride include:
Purity: ≥ 97% (typical), with low moisture and oxide content.
Particle Size: Controlled fine powder ensures rapid dissolution and consistent reactivity.
Form: Available as free-flowing powder or as stabilized solutions in THF or ether.
Solubility: Excellent solubility in THF and diethyl ether.
Appearance: White to gray crystalline powder.
Typical Datasheet Spec Example:
Product Name: Lithium Aluminum Hydride (LiAlH₄)
CAS No.: 16853-85-3
Molecular Weight: 37.95
Purity: ≥97%
Solvent Compatibility: Ether, Tetrahydrofuran
Packaging: 25g, 100g, 500g, 25kg options available
Reliable specifications allow chemists to design their reactions with confidence, ensuring reproducible yields and purity across batches. In addition, Junmao offers customization options such as particle-size control and solvent pre-dissolution services for clients who require ready-to-use solutions, reducing preparation time in the lab or plant.
Because LAH is moisture-sensitive, packaging and logistics play a critical role in maintaining product quality. Gansu Junmao New Material Technology Co., Ltd. uses airtight, moisture-proof packaging that preserves the integrity of the reagent during transport and storage. The product is sealed in aluminum-lined containers under inert gas, ensuring minimal exposure to humidity.
Each shipment is accompanied by Certificates of Analysis (COA) and Safety Data Sheets (SDS), giving buyers complete transparency over quality parameters and safety instructions. Proper labeling, traceable batch numbers, and documentation guarantee compliance with international chemical transport regulations.
Such attention to packaging and traceability ensures that LAH from Junmao arrives ready for immediate use, preserving its high activity and consistent reducing power. Reliable supply and documentation are particularly important for regulated industries such as pharmaceuticals, where batch-to-batch uniformity is essential for compliance and safety assurance.
For sensitive reagents like Lithium Aluminum Hydride, small variations in quality can lead to significant differences in reactivity and yield. That’s why supplier quality and traceability are non-negotiable. Gansu Junmao New Material Technology Co., Ltd. operates under strict quality management systems, ensuring every batch of LAH is tested for purity, particle distribution, and hydrogen release characteristics before shipment.
The company provides on-demand COAs and custom packing solutions for laboratory or industrial-scale users. Whether you need small quantities for R&D or bulk supply for production, Junmao’s scalable manufacturing system ensures timely delivery and consistent quality. With a commitment to innovation and reliability, Junmao has become a trusted name in the global hydride materials market. Its continuous investment in technology and environmental management has further strengthened its ability to serve customers who require precision and sustainability in their chemical supply chain.
Even as newer reagents emerge, Lithium Aluminum Hydride continues to hold its place as the go-to strong reducing agent for modern synthesis. Its unmatched reactivity, versatility, and reliability make it indispensable across research, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors. Supported by the manufacturing excellence of Gansu Junmao New Material Technology Co., Ltd., customers worldwide can access top-grade LAH products that deliver consistent results and safety assurance. To learn more or request a technical data sheet, please contact us today.
1. What makes LAH more powerful than sodium borohydride?
LAH provides a stronger hydride source, capable of reducing esters, amides, and nitriles that NaBH₄ cannot. It reacts more vigorously but requires careful handling.
2. Can LAH be used in aqueous systems?
No, LAH reacts violently with water and must always be used under anhydrous conditions, typically in ether or THF solvents.
3. How should LAH waste be quenched safely?
The reaction mixture should be cooled, then slowly treated with an inert solvent like ethyl acetate, followed by careful addition of water or dilute NaOH under controlled conditions.
4. What packaging options does Gansu Junmao provide for LAH?
The company offers multiple options including sealed aluminum-lined drums and custom moisture-proof packs, ensuring safe transport and long-term storage.
