Aluminium sulfate
Aluminium_sulfate[edit | edit source]
Aluminium Sulfate[edit | edit source]
Aluminium sulfate is a chemical compound with the formula Al_(SO_)_. It is a white crystalline solid that is soluble in water and is mainly used as a coagulating agent in the purification of drinking water and wastewater treatment plants, and also in paper manufacturing.
Chemical Properties[edit | edit source]
Aluminium sulfate is an ionic compound consisting of two aluminium cations (Al__) and three sulfate anions (SO___). It is commonly found in its hydrated form, Al_(SO_)_·nH_O, where n can vary. The most common hydrate is the octadecahydrate, Al_(SO_)_·18H_O.
Production[edit | edit source]
Aluminium sulfate is produced by reacting aluminium hydroxide with sulfuric acid. The reaction is as follows:
2 Al(OH)_ + 3 H_SO_ _ Al_(SO_)_ + 6 H_O
This reaction is exothermic and produces a solution of aluminium sulfate, which can be crystallized to obtain the solid form.
Uses[edit | edit source]
Water Treatment[edit | edit source]
In water treatment, aluminium sulfate is used as a coagulant to remove impurities by causing them to clump together into larger particles, which can then be removed by sedimentation and filtration. This process is known as flocculation.
Paper Manufacturing[edit | edit source]
In the paper industry, aluminium sulfate is used to improve the sizing of paper. It helps in the retention of fine particles and improves the paper's resistance to water.
Other Uses[edit | edit source]
Aluminium sulfate is also used in the textile industry for dyeing and printing fabrics, in the food industry as a firming agent, and in gardening to lower the pH of soil.
Safety[edit | edit source]
Aluminium sulfate is generally considered safe when handled properly, but it can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. It should be handled with appropriate protective equipment.
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