Al3PO42OH3

Aluminum phosphate hydroxide, with the chemical formula Al₃PO₄₂(OH)₃, is an inorganic compound belonging to the broader class of aluminum phosphates. This substance is often encountered in mineralogical and industrial contexts due to its stability and unique properties. Structurally, it consists of aluminum (Al), phosphorus (P), oxygen (O), and hydrogen (H) atoms arranged in a crystalline lattice, where phosphate (PO₄³⁻) groups are linked with aluminum and hydroxyl (OH⁻) groups.

Al₃PO₄₂(OH)₃ is closely related to the mineral variscite, a hydrated aluminum phosphate that occurs naturally in certain geological formations. While variscite typically contains additional water molecules in its structure, Al₃PO₄₂(OH)₃ represents a dehydrated or more simplified form of this mineral. It is often synthesized in laboratory settings for research purposes, particularly in studies involving adsorption, catalysis, or material science.

This compound exhibits low solubility in water, making it useful in applications where chemical stability is required. Its porous structure can also make it effective as an adsorbent for removing heavy metals or organic pollutants from aqueous solutions. Additionally, Al₃PO₄₂(OH)₃ has been explored in the development of ceramic materials and as a component in flame retardants due to its thermal stability.

In industrial processes, aluminum phosphate hydroxide may serve as a precursor for other aluminum-based compounds or as a filler in composites. Its synthesis typically involves controlled reactions between aluminum salts and phosphoric acid, followed by purification steps to isolate the desired product. While not as commonly encountered as some other aluminum compounds, its niche applications highlight its importance in specialized fields.