(Na3AlF6). Synthetic cryolite is a white crystalline powder manufactured from
hydrofluoric acid, sodium carbonate, and aluminium. Synthetic cryolite is used
chiefly as a flux in the electrolytic production of aluminum as it effectively
lowers down the melting point of alumina. It is used in the glass and enamel
industries, in bonded abrasives as a filler, in making salts of sodium and
aluminum and porcelaneous glass and in the manufacture of insecticides. Cryolite
is a relatively safe fruit and vegetable insecticide. The fluoride ion inhibits
many enzymes that contain iron, calcium, and magnesium.