What Industries Use Aluminium Formate And Why?
Aluminium formate is a chemical compound that consists of aluminium and formic acid. It has several industrial applications due to its properties, such as water solubility, thermal stability, and low toxicity.
One of the main industries that use aluminium formate is the construction industry. It is used as a waterproofing agent for concrete and masonry. Aluminium formate can react with the calcium hydroxide present in cement, forming a gel-like substance that fills the pores of the material, making it impermeable to water.
Another industry that uses aluminium formate is the textile industry. It is used as a mordant to fix dyes to fabrics. Aluminium formate can bind to both natural and synthetic fibers, enhancing their affinity to dyes and improving colorfastness.
Aluminium formate is also used in the pharmaceutical industry as an antacid and as an ingredient in antiperspirants. Its ability to neutralize stomach acid makes it effective for treating acid reflux and heartburn. In antiperspirants, it helps to reduce sweat production by blocking sweat glands.
Finally, aluminium formate has applications in the oil and gas industry. It is used as a drilling fluid additive to prevent clay swelling and reduce friction between the drill bit and the wellbore. Additionally, it can also act as a corrosion inhibitor, protecting metal pipes from rust and other forms of degradation.
In summary, aluminium formate finds use in the construction, textile, pharmaceutical, and oil and gas industries due to its unique properties and beneficial effects on various processes in these sectors.