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Tin Compounds
   Tin(II) chloride
   Tin(IV) chloride
Tin(II) chloride SnCl2
: Corrosive :
A solution of tin(II) chloride containing a little hydrochloric acid is used for the tin-plating of steel, in order to make tin cans. An electric potential is applied, and tin metal is formed at the cathode via electrolysis.
Stannous chloride is also added as a food additive with E number E512 to some canned and bottled foods, where it serves as a colour-retention agent and antioxidant.
Tin(IV) chloride SnCl4
: Corrosive :
Stannic chloride was used as a chemical weapon in World War I. It is also used in the glass container industry for making an external coating containing tin(IV) oxide which toughens the glass.