Cobalt Chloride Hexahydrate (CAS 7791-13-1) is an inorganic compound that, despite its relatively simple chemical structure, plays a crucial role in a wide array of industrial and scientific applications. As a leading manufacturer and supplier of high-purity chemicals from China, NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. is dedicated to providing this essential material to businesses and researchers worldwide. This article explores the key characteristics and diverse uses of Cobalt Chloride Hexahydrate, highlighting why it is a vital component for many industries.

Physical and Chemical Properties for Industrial Use

Cobalt Chloride Hexahydrate is predominantly known for its striking deep purple, crystalline solid appearance. Its chemical formula is CoCl₂•6H₂O. For industrial applications, key specifications often include a high purity level, typically ≥99%, ensuring minimal interference from impurities. The compound exhibits good solubility in water, which is fundamental for its use in aqueous solutions and electroplating baths. It is also soluble in alcohols and acetone, offering flexibility in various chemical processes. With a melting point of approximately 87°C and a density around 1.924 g/cm³, it possesses predictable physical behaviors that are important for process design. As a hygroscopic material, it readily absorbs moisture, a property exploited in its role as a humidity indicator but also necessitating careful handling and storage to maintain its anhydrous or hydrated state as required.

Indispensable Applications Across Sectors

The utility of Cobalt Chloride Hexahydrate is remarkably broad:

  • Humidity Sensing: Its most common application is as a visual indicator in desiccants. The reversible color change from blue (anhydrous) to pink (hydrated) makes it an excellent tool for monitoring the moisture content of drying agents, crucial for protecting products sensitive to humidity.
  • Catalysis in Chemical Synthesis: In the fine chemical and pharmaceutical industries, Cobalt Chloride Hexahydrate is employed as a catalyst or reagent to facilitate specific chemical reactions, improving yields and selectivity in complex organic syntheses. When you buy Cobalt Chloride Hexahydrate, you are investing in a key intermediate for advanced chemical production.
  • Electroplating and Surface Treatment: It is a common additive in electroplating baths, contributing to the deposition of cobalt-metal coatings that enhance hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion protection on various substrates.
  • Biological and Medical Research: In research settings, it serves as an inducer of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1), used to study cellular responses to low oxygen conditions. It has also been utilized in studies of apoptosis and heat shock protein expression, contributing to fundamental biological understanding.

NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. is committed to being a leading manufacturer and supplier of Cobalt Chloride Hexahydrate from China. We pride ourselves on delivering high-purity chemicals, competitive pricing, and dependable supply chains. We invite you to contact us for a quote or sample to see how our quality products can support your industrial and research endeavors. Partner with us for your chemical sourcing needs.