Ammonium Alum

Other names: Potassium alum, ammonium alum, potassium aluminium sulphate

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Ammonium Alum, or ammonium alum or potassium aluminium sulphate, is a chemical compound widely used in various fields of human activity. This substance occurs naturally as a mineral and is particularly known for its astringent properties, which are used in medicine and cosmetics. It is a white, crystalline, tasteless and odourless substance and is soluble in water. It is made by mixing aluminium sulphate and potassium sulphate.

In the pharmaceutical industry, it is commonly used in wound healing preparations because of its skin cleansing and soothing properties. It is also used in other medical applications such as the treatment of aphthae and gingivitis. It has also gained popularity in the cosmetics industry, where it is often included in deodorants and antiperspirants. Thanks to its astringent properties, it can regulate perspiration and neutralise odours. Ammonium alum can also be found in the food industry as an additive E522. Here it serves as a stabiliser, acidity regulator or as a firming agent. It is also a component of some types of baked goods, specifically those that require an acidic environment for perfect sourdough bread. Yet its main use remains in industry, as a component of paints and adhesives, cleaners and plumbing.