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NaAlO2

Sodium aluminate, with the chemical formula NaAlO2, is an inorganic compound commonly known as sodium aluminate. It is a white, water-soluble solid that forms highly basic hydroxo-aluminate species in aqueous solution, such as [Al(OH)4]−, depending on concentration and pH. It is widely used as a source of aluminum in alkaline environments.

Preparation and structure: Industrially, sodium aluminate is produced by dissolving aluminum metal in concentrated sodium hydroxide,

Chemical behavior: In aqueous solution, NaAlO2 is highly basic and undergoes hydrolysis. Acidification or neutralization of

Applications: In water treatment, sodium aluminate acts as a coagulant or flocculant and is often used in

Safety and handling: Sodium aluminate is caustic and corrosive. Proper personal protective equipment should be used,

which
releases
hydrogen
gas
and
yields
NaAlO2
in
solution.
An
alternative
route
is
the
reaction
of
aluminum
oxide
or
hydroxide
with
sodium
hydroxide
in
water.
In
solution,
NaAlO2
behavior
is
strongly
pH-dependent
and
it
can
equilibrate
with
other
aluminates.
aluminate
solutions
leads
to
precipitation
of
aluminum
hydroxide
(Al(OH)3).
The
compound
thus
serves
as
a
convenient
source
of
reactive
aluminates
for
various
chemical
processes
and
cement
chemistry.
combination
with
other
coagulants
to
remove
turbidity
and
phosphates.
It
also
serves
as
a
source
of
alumina
in
ceramics
and
as
a
catalyst
support
in
certain
industrial
processes.
In
the
paper
industry,
it
is
used
as
a
retention
and
drainage
agent
and
as
a
precursor
to
alumina
fillers.
In
cement
technology,
sodium
aluminate
is
used
as
a
set
accelerator
and
to
influence
early
strength
development
in
some
concrete
formulations.
and
spills
should
be
neutralized
and
disposed
of
according
to
applicable
regulations.