Aluminum hydroxide

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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.

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 CO₂ for surrounding fires.

  • Special Precautions: No special precautions needed for firefighting related to this material.

Firefighters: Use standard protective equipment.