Aluminum hydroxide
Whatsapp Order
1Aluminum Hydroxide, chemically known as Al(OH)₃, is a white, odorless, and odorless powder or gelatinous substance. It is widely used in pharmaceuticals as an antacid to neutralize stomach acid and relieve indigestion and heartburn. Beyond healthcare, aluminum hydroxide is a crucial component in water purification, fire retardants, and as a precursor or filler in various industrial applications. It functions as a flame retardant by releasing water upon heating, thus cooling the material and diluting flammable gases. Due to its amphoteric nature, it can react both as an acid and base, enhancing its versatility. Aluminum hydroxide is often utilized in manufacturing aluminum salts and in producing aluminum oxide.
Categories: Preservatives, Soil Conditioners
Tags: Aluminum hydroxide, Pharmaceutical excipient, Water treatment chemical, White powder
Description
Primary Uses
Pharmaceuticals
- Used as an active ingredient in antacids to treat acid indigestion, heartburn, and gastric ulcers by neutralizing excess stomach acid.
- Functions as a vaccine adjuvant in some immunizations, boosting the immune response.
Water Treatment
- Used as a flocculant and coagulant aid in water purification to remove impurities and suspended solids.
- Helps in clarifying wastewater and industrial effluents.
Fire Retardants
- Incorporated into plastics, rubber, and coatings as a flame retardant additive; decomposes endothermically releasing water, which cools surfaces and suppresses flames.
- Used in textiles and building materials to enhance fire resistance.
Industrial Manufacturing
- Used as a filler in plastics, paper, rubber, and ceramics to improve product strength and durability.
- Precursor for producing alumina (Al₂O₃) and other aluminum compounds.
Secondary Uses
Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Used in deodorants and antiperspirants as an active ingredient to reduce sweating.
- Acts as an abrasive and opacifying agent in some formulations.
Catalysts
- Utilized as a catalyst or catalyst support in chemical reactions, including in petrochemical processes.
Paints & Coatings
- Added to paints to improve durability and resistance to moisture and heat.
Agriculture
- Used in soil conditioning and as a carrier for pesticides.
PRODUCT KEY ATTRIBUTES
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Aluminum hydroxide
- Common/Trade Names: Aluminum hydroxide, hydrated alumina, alumina trihydrate
- CAS Number: 21645-51-2
- HS Code: 2818.10.00
- Molecular Formula: Al(OH)₃
- Synonyms: Hydrated aluminum oxide, alumina trihydrate (ATH)
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: White powder or gelatinous solid
- Color & Odor: White, odorless
- Melting Point: Decomposes at ~300°C (loses water, forms Al₂O₃)
- Boiling Point: N/A (decomposes before boiling)
- Density: ~2.42 g/cm³ (bulk density varies with form)
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in strong acids and alkalis
- pH Level: Amphoteric; typically slightly basic (~8.5 in water)
- Vapor Pressure: Negligible
- Flash Point: Non-flammable
- Autoignition Temperature: N/A
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous; generally regarded as safe (GRAS)
- NFPA Ratings: Health 1, Flammability 0, Reactivity 0
- Exposure Limits: OSHA PEL = 15 mg/m³ (total dust), ACGIH TLV = 10 mg/m³ (respirable dust)
- Reactivity: Stable under normal conditions; reacts with strong acids and bases
- Incompatibilities: Strong acids, alkalis, and reactive metals
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area; avoid moisture accumulation to prevent caking
- Container Type: Sealed plastic or metal containers with moisture barrier
- Shelf Life: Typically 2-3 years if stored properly
- Special Handling: Avoid dust generation; use appropriate PPE (dust masks, gloves, goggles)
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Regulatory Status: Approved for pharmaceutical and food use in many countries
- Transportation: Not classified as hazardous for transport
- Waste Disposal: Dispose of in accordance with local environmental regulations
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Low toxicity to aquatic life; environmentally safe in typical use quantities
- Persistence: Stable, not readily biodegradable but non-toxic
- Carcinogenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic by IARC or OSHA Biodegradability: Inorganic compound, not biodegradable
SAFETY HANDLING
- PPE: Use gloves, dust masks, and eye protection to prevent irritation from dust.
- Handling: Minimize dust formation; handle in well-ventilated areas.
- Storage: Keep containers tightly closed and away from moisture and incompatible substances.
- Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after handling; avoid ingestion and inhalation.
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if coughing or respiratory discomfort persists.
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops.
- Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with water for at least 15 minutes; consult a physician if irritation persists.
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water; seek medical attention if large quantities are ingested.
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Aluminum hydroxide is non-flammable and does not support combustion.
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or COâ‚‚ for surrounding fires.
- Special Precautions: No special precautions needed for firefighting related to this material.
Firefighters: Use standard protective equipment.
Related products
Aluminum Ammonium Sulphate
Aluminum ammonium sulphate, commonly known as ammonium alum or ammonium aluminum sulfate, is a crystalline chemical compound consisting of aluminum, ammonium, and sulfate ions. It typically appears as a colorless or white crystalline solid with astringent properties. It is widely used for its excellent coagulating, clarifying, and antiseptic properties. Aluminum ammonium sulphate finds applications in water purification, cosmetics, food processing, textile dyeing, and pharmaceuticals. Its ability to precipitate impurities and act as a mordant makes it invaluable in industries requiring precise control of chemical reactions, such as in the preparation of baking powder and fireproof textiles.
Benzyl Konium Chloride (BAC)
Benzyl Konium Chloride (BAC) 50% is a quaternary ammonium compound with potent antimicrobial and disinfectant properties. It is a cationic surfactant widely used for its bactericidal, fungicidal, and virucidal effects. This clear to pale yellow liquid concentrate is highly soluble in water and is commonly used in healthcare, sanitation, and industrial hygiene applications. BAC 50% solutions serve as active ingredients in disinfectants, sanitizers, and antiseptics due to their effectiveness against a broad spectrum of microorganisms.
Cetrimide Powder 98%
Cetrimide Powder is a high-purity quaternary ammonium compound widely used for its antiseptic, disinfectant, and surfactant properties. It is a cationic surfactant derived from cetyltrimethylammonium bromide and appears as a white to off-white crystalline powder with a slight characteristic odor. Known for its excellent antimicrobial efficacy against bacteria and fungi, cetrimide is frequently incorporated in pharmaceutical, personal care, and industrial formulations. It acts as a bactericidal agent, detergent, and emulsifier, providing effective cleaning and disinfecting action.
Clove Leaf oil
Clove Leaf Oil is a high-phenol essential oil extracted via steam distillation from the leaves of Syzygium aromaticum (formerly Eugenia caryophyllata). It typically contains up to 80–85% eugenol, which gives it a sharper, more herbaceous aroma than clove bud oil. This oil is prized for its potent antiseptic, analgesic, antifungal, and antioxidant properties. Used in oral care, topical formulations, fragrances, cleaning agents, and agricultural applications, it is valued for both its therapeutic efficacy and aromatic profile.
Disodium EDTA 99%
Disodium EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium salt) is a white, odorless, crystalline powder known for its strong chelating properties. With a purity of 99%, it is widely used across numerous industries to bind metal ions, improve stability, and enhance performance in formulations. Disodium EDTA is highly soluble in water, slightly acidic to neutral in solution, and stable under standard storage conditions. Its ability to sequester metal ions like calcium, magnesium, and iron makes it a critical additive in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, water treatment, and industrial applications.
Methyl Paraben
Methyl Paraben is a white to off-white crystalline powder widely used as an antimicrobial preservative in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food products. It is a member of the paraben family of preservatives known for their effectiveness against a broad spectrum of bacteria and fungi. Methyl Paraben helps extend the shelf life of products by preventing microbial growth without affecting the product's texture or color.
Propyl paraben
Propyl Paraben is a widely used preservative belonging to the paraben family, known for its antimicrobial properties. It is commonly employed to inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold, and yeast in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food products. Propyl Paraben is favored for its effectiveness, low toxicity, and compatibility with a broad range of formulations, helping extend product shelf life while maintaining safety.
Terpeniol 95%
Terpeniol 95% is a high-purity monoterpene alcohol derived primarily from natural sources such as pine oil and citrus peel oils. Known for its fresh, floral, and citrus-like aroma, Terpeniol is widely used in the fragrance and flavor industries. Its antimicrobial and solvent properties also make it valuable in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and cleaning formulations. The 95% purity ensures consistent performance in industrial and consumer applications.