Aluminum Hydroxide: Properties, Applications, and Safety Guide

Aluminum hydroxide, with the chemical formula Al(OH)₃, is a white, amorphous powder widely used across industries due to its antacid, flame-retardant, and chemical buffering properties. It occurs naturally as the mineral gibbsite and is one of the most important compounds in the aluminum industry.

Chemical and Physical Properties

Aluminum hydroxide is amphoteric, meaning it can react with both acids and bases to form salts. It is practically insoluble in water but dissolves in strong acids and bases.

• Molecular Weight: 78.00 g/mol

• Appearance: White powder or gel

• Melting Point: Decomposes before melting

• Solubility in Water: Insoluble

• pH (suspension): Approximately neutral to slightly basic

In water, it forms a gelatinous precipitate and is often used in suspension form for medical and industrial purposes.

Major Applications

1. Pharmaceutical Use (Antacid):
Aluminum hydroxide is a key ingredient in over-the-counter antacids. It neutralizes stomach acid and relieves symptoms of heartburn, indigestion, and ulcers. It is also used as a phosphate binder in patients with chronic kidney disease to control phosphate levels.

2. Vaccine Adjuvant:
In vaccines, aluminum hydroxide serves as an adjuvant—substances that boost the immune response to an antigen. Its ability to stimulate the immune system makes it vital in many modern immunization programs.

3. Flame Retardant:
Aluminum hydroxide decomposes when heated, releasing water vapor. This process absorbs heat and cools the material, making it a widely used flame retardant in plastics, rubbers, and textiles.

4. Water Treatment:
It acts as a flocculant in water purification, helping to remove suspended particles and impurities by binding them into larger aggregates that can be filtered out.

5. Industrial Applications:
Aluminum hydroxide is used in the production of aluminum compounds, ceramics, glass, paper, and as a filler in rubber and plastic products.

Safety and Handling

While aluminum hydroxide is generally considered safe, especially in pharmaceutical-grade forms, proper handling is still important:

• Inhalation: Fine dust may cause respiratory irritation; use dust control and respiratory protection when necessary.

• Skin Contact: Generally non-irritating, but prolonged exposure may cause dryness.

• Eye Contact: May cause mechanical irritation.

• Ingestion: Safe in approved medicinal doses, but excessive consumption may cause constipation or phosphate depletion.

Always refer to safety data sheets (SDS) and follow regulatory guidelines when using aluminum hydroxide in an industrial setting.

Environmental and Health Considerations

Aluminum hydroxide is considered environmentally benign when used responsibly. However, excessive aluminum intake has been linked to certain health concerns, such as neurotoxicity, particularly in individuals with impaired kidney function. Medical use is regulated to ensure safe exposure levels.

Conclusion

Aluminum hydroxide is a multifunctional compound with applications that range from medical treatments to industrial manufacturing and fire safety. Its amphoteric nature, stability, and safety make it an essential material across many fields. Whether it's calming an upset stomach or slowing the spread of flames, aluminum hydroxide proves its value through versatility and reliability.

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