Aluminum oxide - Al2O3

What is Aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃)?

Al₂O₃ is an inorganic chemical reagent with chemical name Aluminum oxide. It is also called as Alpha-Alumina, alumina, alundum or aloxide. It is found naturally as corundum, Ruby’s, sapphires, and emeralds. It is an amphoteric substance, which reacts with both acids as well as bases.

It occurs as solid and appears white in color. It is odorless and insoluble in water. The most common occurrence of this compound is in crystalline form, called α-aluminum oxide or corundum. Due to its hardness, is widely used and suitable to use as an abrasive and in cutting tools.

Properties of Aluminum oxide – Al₂O₃

Aluminum oxide structure (Al₂O₃ Structure)

Aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃ ) Uses

• Aluminum oxide is one of the common ingredients in sunscreen and also present in cosmetics such as nail polish, blush, and lipstick.

• It is used in formulations of glass.

• It is used as a catalyst.

• It is used in the purification of water to remove water from the gas streams.

• It is used in sandpaper as an abrasive.

• Aluminum oxide is an electrical insulator used as a substrate for integrated circuits.

• Used in sodium vapor lamps.