Bismuth(III) chloride
Bismuth(III) chloride (CAS: 7787-60-2), with the empirical formula BiCl3, is a white to yellowish solid compound with a molecular weight of 315.34 g/mol. It readily hydrolyses in moist air to form bismuth oxychloride. This chemical serves as a Lewis acid catalyst and is employed in various organic syntheses, including esterifications and Friedel-Crafts acylations. It is also a precursor for the synthesis of other bismuth-containing compounds and finds applications in materials science.
- IUPAC
- Bismuth trichloride,Trichlorobismuth
- Synonyms
- Bismuth trichlorideTrichlorobismuth

Lewis Acid Catalysis
Bismuth(III) chloride acts as an effective Lewis acid catalyst in organic transformations. It is commonly used to promote reactions such as Friedel-Crafts acylation, esterification, and cyclisation reactions, offering a milder alternative to traditional catalysts.
Precursor for Bismuth Compounds
It serves as a valuable starting material for the synthesis of various other bismuth-containing inorganic and organometallic compounds. These derivatives can have diverse applications in materials science and catalysis.
Organic Synthesis Reagent
Beyond catalysis, BiCl3 is utilised directly as a reagent in specific organic synthetic pathways. Its ability to coordinate with various functional groups makes it useful in complex molecule construction.
Materials Science
The compound can be incorporated into the development of novel materials, including ceramics and specialised coatings, owing to the unique properties of bismuth.
| Molecular weight | 315.34 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | BiCl3 |
| Assay | ≥98% |
| Form | solid |
| Boiling point | 447 °C(lit.) |
| Melting point | 230-232 °C(lit.) |

Hazard statements
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
Precautionary statements
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 2 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 36/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36 |
| Cation traces | As: ≤5 mg/kgCu: ≤100 mg/kgFe: ≤100 mg/kgPb: ≤200 mg/kg |
| Anion traces | nitrate (NO3-): ≤500 mg/kgsulfate (SO42-): ≤500 mg/kg |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Bismuth(III) chloride used for?
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Bismuth(III) chloride (CAS: 7787-60-2) is primarily used as a Lewis acid catalyst in organic synthesis, for reactions like Friedel-Crafts acylation and esterification. It also serves as a precursor for other bismuth compounds and has applications in materials science.
What are the CAS number and formula for Bismuth(III) chloride?
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The CAS number for Bismuth(III) chloride is 7787-60-2, and its empirical formula is BiCl3.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply for Bismuth(III) chloride?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Bismuth(III) chloride with an assay of ≥98%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, EP, pharmacopoeia, nutraceutical, or food grade.
What are the safety and handling precautions for Bismuth(III) chloride?
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Bismuth(III) chloride is a Warning substance (GHS07) that causes skin irritation (H315) and serious eye irritation (H319). Appropriate personal protective equipment, including a dust mask (type N95), eye shields, and gloves, should be used. Handle in a well-ventilated area and avoid dust formation. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet for detailed handling information.
How is Bismuth(III) chloride packed, shipped, and exported by TSS?
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Tech Serve Solutions ensures appropriate packaging for the safe transport and export of Bismuth(III) chloride, adhering to international shipping regulations. Please contact us for specific shipping details relevant to your region.
How can I request a sample or a quote for Bismuth(III) chloride?
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To request a sample or a quote for Bismuth(III) chloride, please visit the product page on the Tech Serve Solutions website and use the 'Request a Quote' or 'Sample Request' form, or contact our sales team directly.
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