Deutsch: Chloride / Español: Cloruro / Português: Cloreto / Français: Chlorure / Italiano: Cloruro
The chloride ion is formed when the element chlorine (a halogen) gains an electron to form an anion (negatively charged ion) Cl-. The salts of hydrochloric acid contain chloride ions and can also be called chlorides. The chloride ion, and its salts such as sodium chloride, are very soluble in water.
In the industrial context, chloride refers to a chemical compound containing chlorine. It is used in a variety of industries such as:
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Chemical production: Sodium chloride, commonly known as table salt, is used in the production of various chemicals like caustic soda, chlorine, and hydrogen chloride.
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Textile industry: Calcium chloride is used as a coagulating agent in the production of viscose rayon.
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Water treatment: Calcium chloride and sodium chloride are used to soften hard water by removing dissolved minerals like magnesium and calcium.
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Metal processing: Iron chloride is used as a catalyst in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
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Food industry: Calcium chloride is used as a firming agent in pickling and canning.
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Pharmaceuticals: Magnesium chloride is used as an ingredient in various medicinal products.