argol
Argol is the crude, crystalline form of alum, primarily consisting of potassium aluminum sulfate dodecahydrate (KAl(SO4)2·12H2O). It forms as a crust or delicate crystals on the surface of concentrated alum solutions as they evaporate and cool. The term has historical usage in chemistry and pharmacology, often referring to the impure crystals that precede refining alum. Argol crystals typically contain small amounts of impurities such as other metallic salts and residual solution.
Production and characteristics: In the production of alum, a saturated solution is evaporated and allowed to
Uses and historical context: Historically, argol was used as an astringent in medical preparations and as a
Etymology and scope: The name argol derives from older European terminology for crystallized alum. Today, argol