Aluminum hydroxide gel: General methods of preparation, assay, properties and medicinal uses
Aluminum hydroxide gel, also known as aluminum trihydroxide, is a white, odorless, and tasteless gel-like substance. It is commonly used as an antacid and in the preparation of vaccines. Here are some general methods of preparation, assay, properties, and medicinal uses of aluminum hydroxide gel:
Preparation: Aluminum hydroxide gel is prepared by reacting aluminum sulfate with sodium hydroxide in water. The resulting gel is then washed, dried, and ground into a fine powder. The gel can also be prepared by precipitation of aluminum salts with an alkali.
Assay: The assay of aluminum hydroxide gel is typically performed by determining the amount of aluminum present in the sample. This can be done using a variety of methods, including atomic absorption spectroscopy, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and complexometric titration.
Properties: Aluminum hydroxide gel is an amphoteric compound, which means it can act as both an acid and a base. It has a high surface area and adsorption capacity, which makes it an effective adsorbent. The gel is insoluble in water and organic solvents, but it is soluble in strong acids and bases.
Medicinal uses: Aluminum hydroxide gel is commonly used as an antacid to treat symptoms of heartburn, indigestion, and other gastrointestinal disorders. It works by neutralizing stomach acid and reducing the production of digestive enzymes. The gel is also used as an adjuvant in vaccines, where it enhances the immune response by promoting the uptake and presentation of antigens to immune cells.
In addition to its medicinal uses, aluminum hydroxide gel is used in a variety of industrial applications, including as a flame retardant, a filler in plastics and rubber, and a catalyst in chemical reactions.
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