What is a Lithium aluminium hydride (LiAlH₄, commonly abbreviated as LAH)?

Lithium aluminium hydride (LiAlH₄, commonly abbreviated as LAH) is a powerful reducing agent and appears as a white to gray crystalline solid. It is highly reactive with water and moisture in the air, generating hydrogen gas, and must therefore be handled with caution in anhydrous and inert conditions (typically under nitrogen or argon gas).
It is widely used in organic synthesis to reduce compounds such as aldehydes, ketones, esters, acid chlorides, and carboxylic acids to their corresponding alcohols. Its broad utility makes it essential in the pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and fine chemical industries.

Due to its high reactivity, LAH must be handled in a dry environment, and protective equipment such as gloves and goggles is recommended to avoid irritation or injury.

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