Alum Powder
Alum powder is a fine, water-soluble powder derived from aluminum-based sulfates. The most common types include Potassium Alum (K₂SO₄·Al₂(SO₄)₃·24H₂O) and Ammonium Alum (NH₄Al(SO₄)₂·12H₂O). Below are the general specifications:
1. Physical & Chemical Properties:
Appearance: White crystalline or fine powder
Odor: Odorless
Taste: Astringent, slightly acidic
Solubility: Soluble in water, insoluble in alcohol
pH (5% solution): 3.0 - 4.5 (acidic)
Purity: 98% - 99%
Moisture Content: ≤ 1%
Insoluble Matter: ≤ 0.2%
2. Microbiological Limits (For Food/Pharmaceutical Grade):
Total Plate Count: ≤ 10,000 CFU/g
Yeast & Mold: ≤ 100 CFU/g
E. Coli: Absent
Salmonella: Absent
3. Heavy Metals & Contaminants:
Lead (Pb): ≤ 2 ppm
Arsenic (As): ≤ 1 ppm
Mercury (Hg): ≤ 1 ppm
Cadmium (Cd): ≤ 1 ppm
4. Applications:
Water Treatment: Used as a flocculant for purification
Food Industry: Used as a firming agent and preservative (E number: E522)
Pharmaceuticals: Used in antiseptics, astringents, and anti-hemorrhagic applications
Cosmetics: Used in deodorants, aftershaves, and skin treatments
Textile & Paper Industry: Used in dyeing, tanning, and paper sizing
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