Granular aluminum sulphate has a wide range of applications, primarily due to its ability to act as a coagulant and adjust pH levels. It’s commonly used in water purification, where it helps remove impurities by causing them to clump together and settle out of the water. It’s also used in agriculture, particularly to lower the pH of alkaline soils for acid-loving plants. Additionally, it has applications in the textile industry as a mordant for dyeing, and in the construction industry as a waterproofing agent and concrete accelerator.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Water Treatment:
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Coagulation:Aluminum sulfate is a key ingredient in water treatment plants, where it acts as a coagulant. It causes suspended particles in the water to clump together, forming larger, heavier particles (flocs) that can be easily removed through sedimentation or filtration.
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Wastewater Treatment:Similar to drinking water treatment, aluminum sulphate is used in wastewater treatment to remove pollutants, organic matter, and suspended solids.
Agriculture:
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Soil pH Adjustment:Aluminum sulphate is used to lower the pH of alkaline soils, making them more suitable for plants that thrive in acidic conditions, such as blueberries and rhododendrons.
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Hydrangea Color Change:In gardening, it’s famously used to change the color of hydrangea flowers from pink to blue.
Textile Industry:
- Mordant: Aluminum sulphate acts as a mordant in dyeing, helping dyes bind to fabrics, especially natural fibers like cotton, linen, and wool.
Other Applications:
- Paper Manufacturing: It can be used in paper making for sizing, improving paper quality and strength.
- Construction: It can be used as a waterproofing agent and curing accelerator in concrete.
- Firefighting: Aluminum sulfate can be used in firefighting foam.
- Food Industry: It can be used as a firming agent and to control pH in certain food products.
- Cosmetics: It can be found in some deodorants and astringents.
