aluminumisulfat

Aluminum sulfate, often referred to as papermaker's alum, is an inorganic salt with the chemical formula Al2(SO4)3. It is typically found as a hydrated solid, commonly as the octadecahydrate Al2(SO4)3·18H2O. This compound is highly soluble in water and is a white crystalline solid.

The primary industrial application of aluminum sulfate is in the pulp and paper industry, where it is used as a sizing agent. It helps to improve the paper's resistance to water and ink, preventing feathering and bleeding. It also acts as a flocculant in water treatment processes, helping to remove suspended solids and impurities. Aluminum sulfate is also employed in dyeing textiles to help fix dyes to fabrics.

In its hydrated form, aluminum sulfate is acidic when dissolved in water. This property makes it useful in some garden applications, such as lowering the pH of soil for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas. However, improper use can lead to plant damage.

Aluminum sulfate is produced by reacting aluminum hydroxide with sulfuric acid. While generally considered safe for its intended uses, prolonged or excessive exposure to aluminum sulfate dust can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Ingesting large quantities can lead to gastrointestinal upset.