Hafnium(IV) chloride is the inorganic compound with the formula HfCl₄. This colourless solid is the precursor to most hafnium organometallic compounds. It functions as a Lewis acid and catalyst for certain alkylation and isomerism reactions. Hafnium and zirconium compounds are extracted from ores together and have very similar properties. 

Specifications

Appearance : White powder

Solubility : Soluble in methanol and acetone.

Formula Weight : 320.3

Odor : Irritating

Melting Point320° (sublimation)

Sensitivity : Moisture sensitive

Uses

Hafnium(IV) chloride is used as a precursor for catalyst involved in the Ziegler-Natta polymerization of propylene. It is an effective Lewis acid for various applications in organic synthesis viz alkylation of ferrocene. Further, it increases the rate and control of 1,3-dipolar cycloadditions. It is also used to prepare hafnium dioxide and hafnium silicate, which is used as high-k-dielectrics in the production of integrated circuits.