Aluminium triacetate

Aluminium triacetate is a chemical compound with the formula Al(C2H3O2)3. It is a salt of aluminium and acetic acid. Aluminium triacetate is used in various industries, including the textile industry as a mordant, and in the pharmaceutical industry as an astringent.

Chemical Structure

Aluminium triacetate is composed of one aluminium ion (Al3+) and three acetate ions (C2H3O2-). The aluminium ion is at the center of the molecule, with the three acetate ions surrounding it. Each acetate ion is bonded to the aluminium ion through a coordinate covalent bond.

Properties

Aluminium triacetate is a white, crystalline solid. It is soluble in water and has a slightly acidic pH. When heated, it decomposes to form aluminium oxide and acetic acid.

Uses

Textile Industry

In the textile industry, aluminium triacetate is used as a mordant. A mordant is a substance that helps to fix dyes on fabrics. The aluminium ion in the compound forms a complex with the dye, which then attaches to the fabric, making the dye more resistant to washing and fading.

Pharmaceutical Industry

In the pharmaceutical industry, aluminium triacetate is used as an astringent. An astringent is a substance that causes the contraction of body tissues, typically used to protect the skin and to reduce bleeding from minor abrasions.

Safety

Aluminium triacetate is generally considered safe for use in the industries mentioned above. However, like all chemicals, it should be handled with care. Direct contact with the skin or eyes can cause irritation. Ingestion or inhalation can lead to health problems such as nausea, coughing, and shortness of breath.

See Also

• Aluminium acetate
• Aluminium
• Acetic acid