Alum plays a crucial role in several industrial processes:

• Water purification: Alum is extensively used as a coagulant in water treatment plants. It effectively removes suspended solids and turbidity from water, resulting in cleaner and safer drinking water.

• Textile dyeing: In the textile industry, alum serves as a mordant, enhancing the colorfastness and vibrancy of dyed fabrics. It facilitates the binding of dye molecules to the fabric fibers, ensuring long-lasting color retention.

• Papermaking: Alum contributes to the strength and sizing of paper. It helps to bind cellulose fibers in the paper pulp, enhancing the paper’s resistance to water penetration and improving its overall quality.

Medical Applications

Alum has also found its place in various medical applications:

• Deodorant: Alum’s ability to inhibit bacterial growth makes it an effective ingredient in natural deodorants. It helps to neutralize odor-causing bacteria, keeping the underarms fresh and odor-free.

• Astringent: Alum’s astringent properties make it useful for treating minor skin irritations, such as razor burn and insect bites. It helps to shrink tissues, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.

• Antiseptic: Alum’s antiseptic properties make it beneficial for treating minor wounds and infections. It can help to kill bacteria and fungi, aiding in the healing process.

Additional Uses

Alum also finds applications in various other fields:

• Cooking: Alum is sometimes used in pickling to improve the texture and crunch of pickled vegetables.

• Gardening: Alum can be used as a natural pesticide to deter pests and control fungal diseases in plants.

• Cosmetics: Alum is sometimes used in homemade astringent toners and styptic pencils to control bleeding from minor cuts.