Lithium tartrate monohydrate belongs to the family of lithium salts and forms a crystalline solid often recognized by its translucent and white appearance. The structure reflects its composition—a lithium ion paired with the tartrate anion and bound to a single water molecule. The molecular formula presents as C4H6Li2O6·H2O, showing the substance’s precise atomic arrangement. This detail matters for manufacturers and research chemists because the hydrated form interacts differently with heat and moisture than its anhydrous counterpart.
This compound offers substance in several physical forms: granules, powder, flakes, and sometimes pearls. Crystal form remains popular where consistency in solution preparation is critical. Its crystalline material delivers a dry, easily handled powder, promoting safe transfer, and limiting waste. The substance comes as solid, but can readily make a clear, homogeneous liquid solution for laboratory or industrial use. Its density averages about 1.77 g/cm³, which means even modest weights occupy a fairly compact volume—critical info for safe handling and transport. Given the tendency for lithium salts to absorb moisture, sealed packaging often becomes essential to avoid unwanted clumping or degradation.
The lithium ion plays a central role in the chemical behavior, influencing reactivity and solubility. With good water solubility, it allows the compound to dissolve quickly, forming clear, stable solutions. Researchers, battery developers, and pharmaceutical chemists rely on products with tightly controlled purity, usually certified above 99%. Impurities can interfere with downstream applications, especially if the lithium tartrate ends up as a raw material in specialty syntheses or test reagents. The basicity, redox reactivity, and low vapor pressure combine to make this chemical manageable under standard lab conditions.
Laboratories and manufacturers frequently request a comprehensive product specification sheet. That documentation usually lists material purity, water content (since monohydrate means a precise single H2O molecule per formula unit), particle size, and stock-keeping unit (SKU) labels for reliable ordering. A consistent, low moisture environment preserves this chemical’s integrity. Excess humidity encourages unwanted hydration or clumping, which can alter or spoil the fundamental reactivity necessary in high-precision processes. Shelf life rarely presents a concern, so long as storage protocols remain robust—well-sealed containers and a cool, dry spot on the warehouse shelf make the difference between consistent results and unreliable batches.
Shipping regulations track lithium tartrate monohydrate under the customs HS Code 2918.19. This code connects to organic acids and their derivatives, allowing customs agents and import offices to process material shipments quickly and accurately. Sourcing brings its own hurdles since global lithium demand, fueled by battery manufacturing and specialty ceramics, has spiked prices for many lithium compounds. Producers might source lithium carbonate or lithium hydroxide as upstream raw materials, reacting these with tartaric acid under controlled conditions to yield the finished lithium tartrate monohydrate. Balancing price, quality, origin traceability, and sustainability remains a constant challenge for anyone responsible for process chemicals.
Safe work habits matter wherever chemical use occurs, and lithium tartrate monohydrate deserves respect. Exposure risks involve skin and eye contact, plus ingestion, though the compound’s toxicity sits on the moderate end compared to some lithium salts. Long-term exposure can escalate health concerns, including nervous system effects and kidney strain if not managed. Dust inhalation should be minimized with effective ventilation and proper personal protective equipment—gloves, goggles, and laboratory coats form the basics. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) highlight emergency procedures for spills and exposure, recommending water and non-combustible absorbent materials for cleanup, plus prompt medical consultation if ingestion or contact occurs. Strict labeling and secure storage guard against harmful misuse or accidental mix-ups.
Many industries value lithium tartrate monohydrate for its stability and reactive lithium content. Analytical chemists use it to calibrate tools and run precision experiments where predictable lithium ion concentrations are vital. The food and beverage industry sometimes encounters its tartrate backbone in natural acidity regulation, though not in lithium salt form. Researchers in specialty ceramics, electronics, and battery-related technologies sometimes test lithium tartrate among other lithium sources when developing new solid or liquid electrolytes. Product consistency and chemical legacy play a role here: poorly documented or contaminated compounds disrupt perfectly tuned processes, making clear source tracking and batch testing essential in all professional applications.
The rising need for lithium in energy storage and electronics puts pressure on raw material mining and processing. Lithium tartrate monohydrate shares this supply chain, demanding responsible sourcing to limit environmental impact. Waste management presents a parallel challenge. Disposal as non-hazardous chemical waste depends on local regulation, but uncontrolled dumping can stress soil and waterways. Reusable packaging, careful tracking, and improved recycling policies can reduce overall footprint. Industry regulators have started watching for improper lithium salt disposal and may tighten standards, especially as demand drives wider use.
Manufacturers, scientists, and purchasing agents see real advantages in transparent specifications. Rigorous batch testing and concise labeling support reliable supply chains. Inconsistent quality, whether from improper storage or poor raw material selection, hits at the heart of research credibility and manufacturing stability. Forward-looking organizations advocate for improved documentation, clear supplier qualification, and robust material traceability. Open communication between labs, suppliers, and regulators builds the trust necessary for global commerce—and sets a higher bar for safe, effective use of lithium tartrate monohydrate.
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