Aluminium sulphide

Aluminium sulphide (

A

l

2

S

3

Al

2

S

3

) is an inorganic compound consisting of aluminium and sulfur, primarily used in chemical synthesis, laboratory research, and select industrial processes. It is a grey to yellowish solid recognized for reacting vigorously with water to release hydrogen sulfide gas, which has a characteristic rotten egg odor.​

Key Properties

Chemical Formula:

A

l

2

S

3

Al

2

S

3

Appearance: Grey, yellowish, or white crystalline solid with a characteristic odor in moist conditions

Molar Mass: 150.158 g/mol​

Density: 2.02 g/cm³​

Melting Point: 1100°C​

Boiling Point: 1500°C​

Solubility: Reacts with water, releasing

H

2

S

H

2

S gas​

Purity (lab grade): ≥98%​

Chemical Behavior and Handling

Aluminium sulphide is highly moisture sensitive, decomposing in the presence of water and humid air to form aluminium hydroxide and hydrogen sulfide gas. It must be handled inside a dry, airtight environment, ideally under a fume hood. Protective gloves and eyewear are advised.​

Applications

Laboratory synthesis and chemical research​

Generation of hydrogen sulfide for analytical purposes​

Used as an additive in lubricants and pigment production in select industrial settings​

Occasionally employed in water treatment to precipitate contaminants​

Source of sulfur and hydrogen in reactions

Procurement and Availability in India

Lab reagent-grade aluminium sulphide (purity ≥ 98%) is available from laboratory suppliers in India, offered usually in powder form, packaged in airtight containers to ensure stability. Buyers should ensure careful storage, away from moisture and acidic substances.​

For reference, common suppliers include Alpha Chemika, Labwale, and other laboratory chemical distributors, often providing Certificates of Analysis (COA) with purity specifications.