Understanding Aluminium Hydroxide, Its Properties, Uses, and Benefits

Aluminium hydroxide, also known as onyx powder, is a chemical compound with the formula Al(OH)_3.  This compound is a white, odorless powder available in several particle sizes (15, 50, and 100 microns).  Aluminium hydroxide has various properties that make it a versatile material in the chemical industry. Let us take a closer look at aluminium hydroxide, or onyx powder, including its definition, properties, uses, benefits, and applications in the chemical industry.

Definition of Onyx Powder (Aluminium Hydroxide)

Aluminium hydroxide (Onyx powder) is a chemical compound formed by the reaction between aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃) and water (H₂O). Aluminium hydroxide can be produced synthetically or occur naturally.

Synthetic aluminium hydroxide is usually produced by dissolving aluminium oxide in a sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution. Natural aluminium hydroxide can be found in several minerals, such as gibbsite, diaspore, and boehmite.

Aluminium hydroxide is referred to as onyx powder because its various characteristics allowing it to be used as a component in the manufacture of synthetic onyx.

Properties of Aluminium Hydroxide

Aluminium hydroxide has various properties that make it a highly versatile material, including:

• Fire-resistant properties. Aluminium hydroxide can help prevent fires.
• Hydrophilic properties. Aluminium hydroxide can absorb water.
• Aluminium hydroxide is amphoteric.

In acid, it acts as a Brønsted-Lowry base by accepting hydrogen ions and neutralizing the acid, producing a salt:

3 HCl + Al(OH)₃ → AlCl₃ + 3 H₂O

In a base, it acts as a Lewis acid by accepting an electron pair from the hydroxide ion:

Al(OH)₃ + OH^– → Al(OH)₄^–

Uses and Applications of Aluminium Hydroxide

Aluminium hydroxide, or onyx powder, has various uses and applications in the chemical industry, including:

1. Flame Retardant

Aluminium hydroxide is used as a flame-retardant or fire-resistant material. It can help slow the rate of combustion, thereby reducing the risk of fire. Therefore, aluminium hydroxide can be used in the production of cables, plastic products, and building materials.

2. Filler in Plastics

Aluminium hydroxide functions as a filler in plastics. It improves not only the strength and hardness of plastics but also provides fire-resistant properties. Therefore, aluminium hydroxide is often used in various plastic products, such as plastic bottles, food packaging, and electronic components.

3. Fire Extinguishers

Aluminium hydroxide is used in fire-extinguisher formulations. It can help extinguish fires by absorbing heat and stopping the chemical reactions that occur during combustion. Therefore, aluminium hydroxide is highly suitable for use in powder and foam fire extinguishers.

4. Cable Manufacturing

In cable industry, aluminium hydroxide is used to improve the heat and fire resistance of cables. This is important because cables are often used in hot and hazardous environments.

Environmental Benefits of Aluminium Hydroxide

In addition to its industrial uses, aluminium hydroxide, or onyx powder, also provides environmental benefits, including:

• Waste Treatment

Aluminium hydroxide can be used for the treatment of liquid and solid waste. In liquid-waste treatment, aluminium hydroxide can be used to remove heavy metals, organic compounds, and other pollutants. This can help protect the environment from pollution. In solid-waste treatment, aluminium hydroxide can be used to reduce the waste volume and improve disposal efficiency. This can help reduce the need for landfill space.

• Environmental Sustainability

Aluminium hydroxide can be used to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions. This is because aluminium hydroxide can absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Justus Kimiaraya: A Trusted Distributor of Aluminium Hydroxide (Onyx Powder)

PT Justus Kimiaraya is a trusted chemical distributor that supplies high-quality aluminium hydroxide (onyx powder). Our company has more than 20 years of experience in the chemical industry and has served various customers throughout Indonesia.

The aluminium hydroxide supplied by Justus Kimiaraya is of high quality and meets international standards. This chemical is produced using modern technology and is rigorously tested to ensure its quality.

If you are looking for a trusted distributor of aluminium hydroxide (onyx powder), Justus Kimiaraya is the right choice. We offer high-quality products, professional service, and competitive price.