NEWS

Aluminium Sulphate (chemical formula: Al₂(SO₄)₃) is a chemical compound used in a variety of industrial and municipal applications. It is commonly known as alum and appears as a white crystalline solid. It is soluble in water, and when dissolved, it forms an acidic solution.

Key Properties:

1. Molecular Formula: Al₂(SO₄)₃
2. Appearance: White crystalline solid or powder.
3. Solubility: Highly soluble in water.
4. pH: When dissolved, it forms an acidic solution with a pH range of around 2.9 to 3.5.
5. Odor: Odorless.
6. Melting Point: Approximately 770°C (1,418°F), decomposing rather than melting.

Uses:

1. Water Treatment: Aluminium sulphate is commonly used in municipal water treatment plants and industrial settings as a coagulating agent to remove impurities from water by causing fine particles to clump together. It is one of the key chemicals used in flocculation.
2. Paper Manufacturing: In the paper industry, it is used as a sizing agent that improves the paper’s resistance to water by enhancing the bonding between the fibers.
3. Textile Industry: It is used in the dyeing process to help dyes adhere more effectively to fabric fibers.
4. Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics: In smaller quantities, aluminium sulphate can be used in certain medicines, cosmetics, and personal care products as an astringent or antiseptic.
5. Gardening and Agriculture: It can be used to adjust soil pH levels. When added to alkaline soils, it helps to lower the pH, making the soil more acidic, which can be beneficial for certain plants like hydrangeas.
6. Fireproofing: It is sometimes used as a fire retardant in materials, especially in the construction industry.

Health and Safety:

• Handling: It should be handled with care, as it is a strong acid when dissolved in water and can cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation.
• Environmental Impact: It can be harmful in large quantities to aquatic life if not properly managed in water treatment processes.

Chemical Reactions:

• In water, aluminium sulphate reacts to form aluminium hydroxide (Al(OH)₃) and sulphuric acid (H₂SO₄). The aluminium hydroxide precipitates out and binds with fine particles, helping to clarify water during treatment processes.

In summary, aluminium sulphate is a versatile chemical compound with significant uses in water purification, paper manufacturing, and various industrial processes. It is valued for its ability to precipitate impurities and adjust acidity.