Alum is a compound that contains aluminum and has been used since antiquity. It has a wide range of uses in various industries, including:
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Water treatment: Alum is used as a flocculant to clarify turbid liquids.
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Dyeing and tanning: Alum is used as a mordant in dyeing and in tanning.
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Cosmetics: Alum is used as an antiperspirant and deodorant in traditional medicine and in modern cosmetics. It has antibacterial properties that allow it to control bacterial growth that causes body odor.
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Food preparation: Alum is used in baking powder and pickling.
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Medicine: Alum is used as an astringent, styptic, and antiseptic. It can be used to stem bleeding from shaving nicks and as a perfume-free deodorant. It is also used in vaccines.
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Other uses: Alum is used to fire-proof paper and cloth. It is also used in depilatory waxes for the removal of body hair and as a demulcent.
It is important to note that while alum has many uses, it may not be safe for long-term use.
