Aluminium chlorohydrate (ACH) is a group of specific aluminium salts that are used as an active ingredient in antiperspirants, as well as in water treatment, paper production, and other industrial processes. It refers to a class of water-soluble aluminum salts with the general formula AlnCl(3n-m)(OH)m. It is used as an antiperspirant in cosmetics and as a coagulant in water purification.
This compound is preferred in some cases for water purification because of its high charge, which makes it more effective at destabilizing and removing suspended materials than other aluminium salts such as aluminium sulfate, aluminium chloride, and various forms of polyaluminium chloride (PAC) and polyaluminium chlorisulfate, which have a lower net charge than aluminium chlorohydrate. Furthermore, when compared to other aluminium and iron salts, the high degree of neutralization of the HCl results in a minimal impact on treated water pH.
In antiperspirants, ACH works by forming a temporary plug in the sweat ducts, reducing the amount of sweat that is released from the sweat glands. It is effective at low concentrations and is generally considered safe for use in personal care products.
Solubility
ACH is highly soluble in water and forms clear, colorless solutions. The solubility of ACH can be affected by the pH of the solution and the concentration of aluminium and chloride ions.
Stability
ACH is a stable compound under normal conditions, but it can react with certain chemicals to form hazardous gases such as hydrogen chloride and chlorine gas.
Uses
One of the most common active ingredients in commercial antiperspirants is aluminum chlorohydrate. The most common variant in deodorants and antiperspirants is Al2Cl(OH)5. It is also used in water and wastewater treatment processes as a coagulant to remove dissolved organic matter and colloidal particles from suspension.
Overall, the use of aluminium chlorohydrate in personal care products is regulated by health authorities, and it is generally considered safe when used as directed. As with any personal care product, it is important to follow the instructions for use and to stop using the product if you experience any adverse reactions.
Safety
Aluminum chlorohydrate is approved for use in antiperspirants by the US Food and Drug Administration in concentrations up to 25%.
However, there has been some concern about the potential health risks associated with the use of aluminium-based antiperspirants. Some studies have suggested a possible link between long-term use of these products and an increased risk of breast cancer or Alzheimer’s disease, but these findings are not conclusive, and more research is needed to fully understand any potential risks.
