Synthesis of NiAl
Description: Bars containing the correct molar rations of Ni and Al are premade in a die. The pressed bar is placed on a fire brick and heated with a propane torch. Once the reaction starts, a bright orange flame travels the length of the bar.
This demonstration is also available on JCE Solid State Resources CD-Rom.
Source: Ellis, A. et al Teaching General Chemistry: A Material Science Companion
Year: 1993 Vol: N/A Page: 332
Keywords: Nickel, Aluminum, Orange flame
Rating: 
Hazard: High
- Burn hazard
- Fire hazard
- Acute toxicity hazard
- Burning metal
Effectiveness: Good
- Good connection from demo to course material
- Results are clearly observable without guidance
- Strong effects are seen by audience
- Good reliability
- Time to results is low
Difficulty: High
- Demos at non-standard conditions
- Use of toxic substances
- Use of flammable reagents
- Specific manipulation required
- Demos that require training or practice to perform safely
Safety Precautions:
- Eye protection required
- Gloves required
- Thermal gloves required
- Perform in well ventilated area
- Perform on a fire-resistant surface
- Do not perform on lectern bench surface
- Class D fire extinguisher on hand
Class: Solid State Chemistry
Division: Material Science Chemistry
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