[Chemical Knowledge]：Properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods, properties and uses of alumina

Alumina Properties

Aluminum oxide (Al₂ O∩), also known as corundum, is a white or colorless crystal with excellent chemical stability and physical properties. It has a molecular weight of 101.96g/mol, a melting point of up to 2072°C and a boiling point of 2977°C. Because alumina has high hardness and wear resistance, it performs well in friction environments. It also has good electrical insulation properties and corrosion resistance, which makes it widely used in the electrical and electronic industries. The chemical properties of alumina are relatively stable, resistant to acid, alkali and high temperature, and are not prone to chemical reactions.

The main use of alumina

Alumina is widely used in many industries because of its unique physical and chemical properties. Alumina is the main raw material for the production of aluminum metal, which is extracted through an electrolytic process. Alumina plays an important role in refractories, used in the manufacture of high-temperature furnace linings and ceramics. The hardness of alumina makes it an important material in the abrasive industry for grinding wheels, grinding stones, etc. Alumina is also widely used as a catalyst support due to its high surface area and excellent thermal stability. In the electronics industry, aluminum oxide is used as an electrical insulator and semiconductor material. In medicine, alumina is also widely used as excipients and adsorbents for drugs.

Alumina upstream feedstock

The main upstream raw material for the production of alumina is bauxite (Bauxite). Bauxite is an ore that contains alumina and usually contains impurities such as iron, titanium and silicon. The main component of bauxite is hydrated alumina (such as boehmite and gibbsite). In the process of extracting alumina from bauxite, Bayer process is usually adopted, that is, alumina in bauxite is dissolved by alkali method, and then high purity alumina is obtained by precipitation and calcination. The production of alumina also requires the use of auxiliary materials, such as lime and soda, which play an important role in the purification process.

Alumina Downstream Products

The downstream products of alumina include various aluminum-based materials and chemicals. Alumina undergoes an electrolytic process to produce aluminum metal, which is one of the main uses. The aluminum produced is widely used in construction, transportation, packaging and other fields. Alumina is processed into refractories for high temperature industrial furnace linings and kiln furniture. Alumina is also used as a filler and reinforcing agent in plastics, rubber and composite materials to improve the strength and wear resistance of the material. In the field of catalysts, alumina is used as a carrier for catalysts for petroleum cracking and other chemical reactions. High-purity alumina is also used in the manufacture of single-crystal corundum for gemstones and precision optical instruments.

Alumina storage method

Alumina needs to be protected from moisture and pollution during storage. Alumina powder has strong hygroscopicity, which will affect its physical properties and application effect after being affected by moisture. Therefore, alumina should be stored in a dry, ventilated environment to avoid direct contact with the ground and humid air. Generally, alumina powder should be sealed and stored in a moisture-proof packaging bag and placed on a tray to prevent direct contact with the ground. The storage area should avoid contact with acid and alkaline substances to prevent the chemical reaction of alumina from causing performance degradation. During long-term storage, it is necessary to regularly check the tightness of the packaging bag and the quality of the alumina to ensure its stable performance.

Alumina Market Analysis

The global alumina market demand is mainly driven by the development of the aluminum industry. With the increasing demand for aluminum in the aerospace, automotive and construction industries, the market demand for alumina is also on the rise. Especially in recent years, the rapid development of new energy vehicles and the surge in demand for lightweight material aluminum have further promoted the growth of the alumina market. Major producers include China, Australia and Brazil, with China being the largest producer and consumer of alumina. Competition in the global alumina market is fierce, with major producers increasing their market share through technological upgrades and expansion.

Alumina Environmental and Health Effects

Alumina in the production and application process will have a certain impact on the environment and human health. In the production process, bauxite mining and alumina purification will produce waste water and waste residue, need to take effective environmental protection measures to deal. Alumina dust has certain harm to the human body, and long-term exposure may cause respiratory diseases. Therefore, in the production and use of alumina, it is necessary to do a good job of dust prevention measures, the use of protective equipment, reduce dust inhalation. Enterprises should strengthen the treatment of waste water and waste gas, reduce environmental pollution, and promote green production and sustainable development.

Conclusion

As an important industrial raw material, alumina has excellent physical and chemical properties and is widely used in various industries. Its upstream raw material is mainly bauxite, through the Bayer process to extract alumina. The downstream products of alumina cover aluminum metal, refractory materials, catalysts and other fields. Alumina should be protected from moisture and pollution during storage to maintain its stable performance. The global alumina market is driven by the growth of aluminum demand and has a bright future. In the process of production and use, attention should be paid to environmental protection and health issues to promote sustainable development. Through continuous technological innovation and environmental protection measures, the alumina industry will usher in a broader space for development.