What is lithium deuteride?

Lithium deuteride is a chemical compound consisting of lithium and deuterium (a stable isotope of hydrogen). Its chemical formula is LiD.

Lithium deuteride is a white solid at room temperature, with a melting point of 678°C and a density of 0.780 g/cm3. It is insoluble in water, but soluble in non-polar solvents such as ether and alcohols.

Lithium deuteride is commonly used as a source of deuterium in nuclear fusion reactions. It is also used in hydrogen fuel cells, as a moderator in nuclear reactors, and as a neutron moderator in nuclear weapons.

Lithium deuteride is considered a relatively safe and stable compound, although it can react violently with water or moisture to produce deuterium gas and lithium hydroxide.

Overall, lithium deuteride is an important compound in various scientific and industrial applications due to its unique properties and usefulness in nuclear reactions.