Aluminium Ammonium Sulphate Extra Pure
SHORT DESCRIPTION
Aluminium Ammonium Sulphate Extra Pure, also known as ammonium alum, is a high-purity double salt composed of aluminum sulfate and ammonium sulfate, typically appearing as colorless or white crystalline granules. Valued for its excellent stability and solubility in water, it is widely used in analytical chemistry, dye mordanting, and laboratory reagent preparations. Its ability to precipitate proteins makes it useful in biochemical applications, while its astringent and antimicrobial properties support its role in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations. The extra pure grade ensures minimal impurities, making it suitable for high-precision scientific work. It should be stored in a tightly sealed container in a dry, cool area to prevent moisture absorption and maintain its effectiveness.
USES
Primary Uses
- Analytical Reagent in Laboratories
- Used in qualitative and quantitative analysis, especially for detecting alkali and alkaline earth metals.
- Precipitant in Protein Purification
- Facilitates “salting out” of proteins in biochemistry and enzyme isolation protocols.
- Chromatographic Separation Support
- Utilized in specialized ion-exchange and inorganic separation processes.
- Chemical Reagent for Teaching and Demonstration
- Demonstrates crystallization, ionic bonding, and alum formation in educational chemistry.
- Buffering Agent in pH-Controlled Reactions
- Used in maintaining mildly acidic conditions in controlled lab reactions.
Secondary Uses
- Crystal Growth Experiments
- Ideal for growing transparent, large alum crystals in educational or research settings.
- Electroplating & Electrochemistry R&D
- Used in experimental studies involving aluminum ion baths or electrochemical reactions.
- Histological Fixatives
- May be used in classical or modified fixative formulations for microscopy slide prep.
- Cosmetic Testing
- Studied for its astringent and antimicrobial properties in lab formulations of deodorants or aftershaves.
- Water Treatment Simulations (Lab Scale)
- Studied in flocculation and coagulation experiments simulating alum-based water purification.
KEY ATTRIBUTES
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name: Aluminium Ammonium Sulphate (IUPAC: Ammonium aluminium sulfate dodecahydrate)
- CAS Number: 7784-26-1
- HS Code: 28333000
- Molecular Formula: NH₄Al(SO₄)₂·12H₂O
- Synonyms:
- Ammonium alum
- Aluminum ammonium sulfate dodecahydrate
- Ammonium aluminum alum
- Dialuminum ammonium disulfate
- Ammonium alum crystal
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Solid (crystalline powder or granules)
- Color & Odor: Colorless to white crystals; odorless
- Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
- Melting Point: ~93.5°C (releases water of hydration)
- Density/Specific Gravity: ~1.64 g/cm³
- Solubility:
- Water: Soluble (approx. 14.6 g/100 mL at 20°C)
- Organic Solvents: Insoluble in alcohol, acetone
- pH Level: ~3.0–4.0 (in 5% aqueous solution – acidic)
- Vapor Pressure & Volatility: Non-volatile
- Flash Point: Not flammable
- Autoignition Temperature: Not applicable
- Viscosity: Not applicable (solid)
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS):
- Not classified as hazardous under GHS
- May cause skin and eye irritation
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 1
- Flammability: 0
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits:
- No specific OSHA PEL or ACGIH TLV
- Reactivity:
- Stable under normal conditions
- Incompatible with strong acids and strong bases (may release ammonia or sulfur oxides)
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions:
- Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area
- Protect from moisture and incompatible substances
- Incompatible Materials:
- Strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, alkalis
- Container Type:
- Plastic-lined fiber drums or HDPE containers
- Shelf Life & Expiration Date:
- 2–3 years if kept dry and sealed
- Special Handling Requirements:
- Avoid creating dust
- Wear gloves and safety goggles during handling
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Regulatory Status:
- Listed under TSCA, REACH
- GRAS status in food applications (limited use)
- Hazard Symbols (GHS Pictograms):
- None required under standard classification
- Transportation Restrictions:
- Not regulated for transport
- No UN number assigned
- Waste Disposal Method:
- Dispose of in accordance with local regulations
- Suitable for landfill or neutralization depending on volume
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity:
- Low aquatic toxicity at normal levels
- Excessive use may affect pH and aquatic systems
- Persistence in Environment:
- Dissolves in water; not environmentally persistent in moderate quantities
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity:
- Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic by IARC or OSHA
- Biodegradability:
- Inorganic salt – does not biodegrade but dissociates in water
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and a lab coat.
- Use a dust mask or respirator if handling large amounts or if dust is generated.
- Handling:
- Avoid inhalation of dust and prevent contact with eyes or skin.
- Use only in well-ventilated areas.
- Handle gently to avoid creating airborne dust.
- Storage:
- Store in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place.
- Keep away from moisture, acids, and incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers.
- Hygiene Measures:
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke in handling areas.
- Clean clothing and PPE after use.
FIRST AID MEASURES
- Inhalation:
- Move to fresh air immediately.
- If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen.
- Seek medical attention if symptoms like coughing or irritation develop.
- Skin Contact:
- Wash affected area with soap and plenty of water.
- Remove any contaminated clothing.
- If irritation occurs, get medical attention.
- Eye Contact:
- Flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.
- Lift upper and lower eyelids occasionally while rinsing.
- Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
- Ingestion:
- Rinse mouth with water.
- Do not induce vomiting.
- Seek immediate medical attention, especially if large amounts are swallowed.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
- Suitable Extinguishing Media:
- Use water spray, dry chemical powder, carbon dioxide (COâ‚‚), or foam.
- Specific Hazards:
- Non-combustible, but may decompose upon heating to release irritating or toxic gases such as ammonia, sulfur oxides, and aluminum oxides.
- May contribute to corrosion when involved in fire runoff.
- Protective Equipment for Firefighters:
- Wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
- Use full protective clothing resistant to chemicals.
- Firefighting Instructions:
- Keep containers cool with water spray if exposed to fire.
- Avoid inhalation of decomposition products.
- Contain and control runoff to prevent environmental contamination.
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