two steps until the aluminium metal supply is exhausted. 2Al + 3Hg^2+ + 6H2O -> 2Al(OH)3 + 6H+ +3Hg Hg + Al -> Hg*Al 2 Hg*Al + 6 H2O -> 2 Al(OH)3 + 2 Hg + 3 H2 Due to the reactivity of aluminium amalgam, restrictions are placed on the use and handling of mercury in proximity with aluminium. In particular, large amounts of mercury are not allowed aboard aircraft under most circumstances because of the risk of it forming amalgam with exposed aluminium parts in the aircraft. Even the transportation and packaging of mercury-containing thermometers and barometers is severely restricted. Accidental mercury spills in aircraft do sometimes result in insurance write-offs. See also Amalgam Aluminium-gallium References External links Video of Mercury-Aluminum-Gallium amalgam attacking aluminum bar Video ( closeup ) of Mercury-Aluminum-Gallium amalgam attacking aluminum bar Aluminium alloys Reducing agents Amalgams