Na3AlF6
Na3AlF6, commonly known as cryolite, is a mineral composed of sodium, aluminum, and fluorine. It has a chemical formula of Na3AlF6 and is typically found in a white or colorless crystalline form. Cryolite is primarily used in the aluminum industry as a flux, helping to lower the melting point of aluminum ore during the extraction process.
This mineral is naturally occurring but is also synthesized for industrial applications. Cryolite is important in the production of aluminum because it enhances the efficiency of the electrolysis process, making it easier to extract aluminum from its ore, bauxite.