Aluminum stearate

Aluminum stearate is a type of aluminum salt that is derived from stearic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid. It is a white, waxy powder that is insoluble in water and has a slight, characteristic odor. Aluminum stearate is used in a variety of applications, including as a thickening agent in cosmetics and as a waterproofing agent in the production of certain types of paper.

Chemical Structure

Aluminum stearate is a complex salt that is composed of aluminum, oxygen, and stearic acid. The aluminum atom is coordinated to three oxygen atoms, which are in turn bonded to the carbon atoms of the stearic acid molecules. This results in a three-dimensional network structure that gives aluminum stearate its unique properties.

Production

Aluminum stearate is typically produced by reacting aluminum hydroxide with stearic acid. This reaction is carried out at elevated temperatures and under pressure to ensure complete conversion of the reactants. The resulting aluminum stearate is then purified and dried before it is used in various applications.

Applications

Aluminum stearate is used in a wide range of applications due to its unique properties. It is commonly used as a thickening agent in cosmetics, where it helps to improve the texture and consistency of products. In addition, it is used as a waterproofing agent in the production of certain types of paper, where it helps to prevent the absorption of water and other liquids.

In the pharmaceutical industry, aluminum stearate is used as a stabilizer in the production of certain types of medications. It is also used as a lubricant in the production of plastics and rubber, where it helps to prevent the materials from sticking to the machinery during the manufacturing process.

Safety

Aluminum stearate is generally considered to be safe for use in cosmetics and other personal care products. However, it can cause skin irritation in some individuals, especially those with sensitive skin. In addition, there is some evidence to suggest that prolonged exposure to aluminum stearate can lead to the accumulation of aluminum in the body, which can have negative health effects.

See Also

• Aluminum hydroxide
• Stearic acid
• Cosmetics
• Pharmaceutical industry