Ardica Technologies, Inc.

Elisabeth McLaughlin

Robert E Wilson

Paul E Penwell

Mark A Petrie

David Stout

Henry Fong

Georgina Hum

Systems and methods for producing microcrystalline alpha alane are provided herein. An exemplary process comprises the elimination of the crystallization aid lithium borohydride through the use of excess lithium aluminum hydride or sodium borohydride. Further exemplary processes comprise methods for passivating microcrystalline alpha alane using a weak acid in a nonaqueous solvent solution.

Crystallization and stabilization in the synthesis of microcrystalline alpha alane

Disclosed herein are systems and methods for heating alane etherate compositions for producing microcrystalline alpha alane. An exemplary heating method comprises introducing a preheated solvent into the alane etherate composition and rapidly stirring to effectuate rapid heating of the composition without the need to heat the reactor walls. In this way, the alane etherate composition can be heated while also reducing the risk of decomposition. In further embodiments, a two-stage reactor can be employed for producing alpha alane, wherein the heating occurs in the second stage.

Heating methods for aluminum hydride production

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Millbrae, CA, United States of America

Elisabeth McLaughlin