Aluminum Hydroxide is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Al(OH)₃. It is a white, odorless powder that is widely used as an important aluminum-based chemical raw material.
Due to its excellent chemical stability, low toxicity, flame-retardant properties, and ability to decompose into alumina at high temperatures, aluminum hydroxide is widely applied in industries such as flame retardants, aluminum salts production, water treatment, pharmaceuticals, ceramics, and specialty materials.
As one of the most important aluminum compounds, aluminum hydroxide plays a key role in the global chemical supply chain.
Chemical Properties of Aluminum Hydroxide
The basic chemical information of aluminum hydroxide is:
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Aluminum Hydroxide |
| Chemical Formula | Al(OH)₃ |
| CAS Number | 21645-51-2 |
| Appearance | White powder |
| Molecular Weight | 78.00 g/mol |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Main Component | Aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) |
Aluminum hydroxide is amphoteric, meaning it can react with both acids and bases. This unique property allows it to be used in various chemical processes.
For example:
- Reacting with acids to produce aluminum salts
- Reacting with alkaline solutions to form aluminate compounds
Main Properties of Aluminum Hydroxide
1.Excellent Flame Retardant Performance
One of the most important applications of aluminum hydroxide is as a halogen-free flame retardant.
When heated, aluminum hydroxide decomposes and releases water vapor:
- Absorbs heat during decomposition
- Reduces material temperature
- Dilutes combustible gases
- Forms a protective alumina residue
Because of these properties, aluminum hydroxide is widely used in:
- Electrical cables
- Plastic compounds
- Rubber products
- Building materials
2.High Chemical Stability
Aluminum hydroxide has good chemical stability under normal conditions.
It is commonly used as a raw material for producing:
- Aluminum sulfate
- Poly aluminum chloride (PAC)
- Activated alumina
- Other aluminum chemicals
3.High Purity and White Appearance
Industrial aluminum hydroxide powder typically has:
- High Al₂O₃ content
- Low impurity levels
- Stable particle size
- Good whiteness
These characteristics make it suitable for applications requiring consistent product performance.
Applications of Aluminum Hydroxide
1.Flame Retardants
The largest industrial application of aluminum hydroxide is flame retardant production.
It is widely used in:
- PVC cables
- Electrical insulation materials
- Rubber products
- Polymer composites
- Construction materials
Compared with traditional flame retardants, aluminum hydroxide offers advantages including:
- Halogen-free composition
- Low smoke generation
- Good environmental performance
2.Production of Aluminum Chemicals
Aluminum hydroxide is an important raw material for manufacturing various aluminum compounds.
Applications include:
Aluminum Sulphate Production
Used in:
- Water purification
- Paper industry
- Industrial processing
Poly Aluminum Chloride (PAC)
Used as a coagulant in:
- Drinking water treatment
- Wastewater treatment
- Industrial wastewater processing
3.Water Treatment Industry
Aluminum hydroxide is used as an intermediate material in aluminum-based coagulant production.
Aluminum-based chemicals help remove:
- Suspended solids
- Organic impurities
- Turbidity
from water systems.
4.Ceramics and Specialty Materials
Aluminum hydroxide can be converted into alumina (Al₂O₃) through calcination.
It is used in:
- Advanced ceramics
- Refractory materials
- Electronic materials
How to Choose the Right Aluminum Hydroxide Supplier?
When purchasing aluminum hydroxide, buyers usually focus on several key factors:
1. Product Quality Consistency
Stable chemical composition is important for industrial production.
Important parameters include:
- Al(OH)₃ content
- Al₂O₃ content
- Moisture
- Particle size
2. Customized Specifications
Different industries require different particle sizes and performance characteristics.
A reliable supplier should provide:
- Customized particle size
- Technical data sheet (TDS)
- Certificate of Analysis (COA)
3. Supply Capability
For international buyers, supply stability is critical.
Important factors include:
- Production capacity
- Export experience
- Packaging options
- Delivery capability
Aluminum Hydroxide Packaging and Storage
Aluminum hydroxide powder is normally packed in:
- 25 kg PP bags
- 1000 kg jumbo bags
- Customized packaging
Storage recommendations:
- Keep in a dry environment
- Avoid direct moisture exposure
- Store in sealed packaging
Proper storage helps maintain product quality and prevent moisture absorption.
Conclusion
Aluminum hydroxide is a versatile inorganic chemical widely used across multiple industries, including flame retardants, aluminum chemical production, water treatment, pharmaceuticals, and advanced materials.
With its excellent thermal decomposition properties, chemical stability, and wide industrial applications, aluminum hydroxide continues to be an essential raw material in modern manufacturing.
Choosing a reliable Aluminum Hydroxide manufacturer and supplier ensures stable quality, consistent supply, and better support for long-term industrial applications.
