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CAS Number: 7784-24-9
Linear Formula: KAl(SO4)2•12H2O
Molecular Weight: 474.39
IUPAC Name: Aluminium potassium sulfate dodecahydrate
Other Names: Potassium alum, Potash alum, Alum-(K)
Potassium alum, potash alum or tawas is the potassium double sulfate of aluminium. Its chemical formula is KAl(SO4)2 and it is commonly found in its dodecahydrate form as KAl(SO4)2·12(H2O). Alum is the common name for this chemical compound, given the nomenclature of potassium aluminum sulfate dodecahydrate.
It is commonly used in water purification, dyeing, fireproof textiles, and baking powder. Potassium alum is an astringent/styptic and antiseptic. For this reason, it can be used as a natural deodorant by inhibiting the growth of the bacteria responsible for body odor. Use of mineral salts in such a fashion does not prevent perspiration. Its astrindent/styptic properties are often employed after shaving and to reduce bleeding in minor cuts and abrasions, nosebleeds, and hemorrhoids.
It is also used as a hardener for photographic emulsions (films and papers), usually as part of the fixer, although modern materials are adequately hardened and this practice has fallen out of favor. It is also used in tanning of leather.