Germanium tetrachloride is a colourless, fuming liquid with a peculiar, acidic odour. It is used as an intermediate in the production of purified germanium metal.
G 1270 (OTTO) Germanium(IV) chloride, 99.9999%, Cas 10038-98-9 - used almost exclusively as an intermediate for several optical processes. GeCl4 can be directly hydrolyzed to GeO2, an oxide glass with several unique properties and applications, described below. Germanium and its glass oxide, GeO2 are transparent to the infrared spectrum. The glass can be manufactured into IR windows and lenses, used for night-vision technology in the military and luxury vehicles. GeO2 is preferred over other IR transparent glasses because it is mechanically strong and therefore preferred for rugged military usage.