Vitamins & Minerals

ALUMINIUM

What is aluminium? 

Aluminium is a chemical element with the symbol Al and atomic number 13. It is a silvery-white, lightweight metal that is widely distributed in the Earth’s crust. Aluminium is known for its low density, corrosion resistance, and high thermal and electrical conductivity. It is used in various industries and applications, including construction, transportation, packaging, electrical wiring, and consumer goods. Aluminium compounds are also used in antacids, vaccines, and other pharmaceutical products.

Aluminium is typically found in various minerals and compounds. Some of the common minerals and compounds that contain aluminium include:

  • Bauxite: Bauxite is the primary ore from which aluminium is extracted. It is a mixture of various aluminium minerals, primarily gibbsite (Al(OH)3), boehmite (AlO(OH)), and diaspore (AlO(OH)), along with other minerals like hematite, goethite, and quartz.
  • Feldspar: Feldspar is a group of minerals that contain aluminium, silicon, and oxygen. It is a common component of many igneous and metamorphic rocks.
  • Kaolin (Kaolinite): Kaolin is a clay mineral that contains aluminium and is used in various industries, including ceramics and paper making.
  • Cryolite: Cryolite is a mineral that was historically used in the aluminium smelting process. It is composed of sodium aluminium fluoride (Na3AlF6).
  • Corundum: Corundum is a crystalline form of aluminium oxide (Al2O3) and is known for its hardness. Gem varieties of corundum include ruby and sapphire.

Aluminum compounds are sometimes used in medicines and pharmaceuticals, but it's essential to note that their use is typically limited and regulated due to potential health concerns associated with aluminum exposure. Aluminum salts, such as aluminum hydroxide and aluminum phosphate, are examples of aluminum compounds used in medicine. Here are some common uses of aluminum compounds in medicines:

  • Antacids: Aluminium hydroxide is often used as an ingredient in antacid medications to help neutralise stomach acid. It can help alleviate symptoms of acid indigestion, heartburn, and upset stomach.
  • Vaccines: Some vaccines contain aluminium salts as adjuvants. Aluminium adjuvants enhance the body's immune response to the vaccine antigen and are used to make vaccines more effective. Examples include vaccines for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and the human papillomavirus (HPV).
  • Topical Antiperspirants: Aluminium compounds like aluminium chloride hexahydrate are used in topical antiperspirant products to help reduce sweating when applied to the skin.
  • Haemorrhoid Treatments: Aluminium sulfate is sometimes used as an astringent in over-the-counter haemorrhoid treatments to help shrink haemorrhoids and relieve symptoms.
  • Phosphate Binders: Aluminium-based phosphate binders were historically used in the management of hyperphosphatemia in patients with kidney disease. However, their use has decreased due to concerns about aluminium accumulation in the body and its potential link to neurological and bone health issues.

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